Student Success Story: From Nigeria to Stockholm - My European Education Journey

In this special feature, we interview Oluwaseun Adeyemi, a Nigerian graduate of Stockholm University who shares her journey from Lagos to Sweden, the challenges she overcame, and how her European education transformed her career path.

Overcoming Challenges

Oluwaseun's journey wasn't without obstacles. She faced significant challenges both before and after arriving in Sweden.

Application and Visa Process

"The scholarship was just the beginning. Navigating the residence permit application was another hurdle. I had to provide proof of funds, health insurance, and accommodation arrangements. The waiting period was stressful, as my program start date was approaching rapidly."

Cultural Adjustment

"Landing in Stockholm in August, I was unprepared for how quickly the warm summer would transition to cold, dark days. The culture shock was real – from the reserved nature of Swedes compared to the vibrant social interaction I was used to in Lagos, to simple things like learning to recycle in five different categories," she laughs.

"The first winter was the hardest. I had never experienced darkness at 3 PM before. I learned the importance of Vitamin D supplements and developing indoor hobbies. But I also discovered the beautiful Swedish concept of 'fika' – coffee breaks that bring people together – which helped me build my first friendships."

Academic Differences

"The educational approach was different from what I was accustomed to. There was less hand-holding and more independent research. Professors expected critical thinking rather than memorization, and class participation was a significant part of the evaluation."

Academic Experience

Oluwaseun pursued an MSc in Environmental Science with a specialization in Sustainable Water Management at Stockholm University.

"The program structure was incredibly practical. We had field studies, laboratory work, and collaborations with local municipalities and companies. This hands-on approach was invaluable for someone like me who came from a more theoretical background."

One of the highlights of her program was the opportunity to participate in research at the Stockholm Resilience Centre. "Working alongside leading researchers in climate resilience gave me insights I could never have gained from textbooks alone. My master's thesis on water resource management techniques applicable to sub-Saharan Africa became the foundation for my career."

Career Impact

After graduating, Oluwaseun secured a six-month internship at the United Nations Environment Programme's office in Nairobi, which later led to a full-time position.

"My European degree opened doors that would have remained closed otherwise. The technical knowledge, research methodology, and critical thinking skills I developed in Sweden made me a competitive candidate. But equally important were the soft skills – intercultural communication, adaptability, and networking – that came from the international experience itself."

Today, Oluwaseun works as an Environmental Sustainability Consultant, dividing her time between projects in Europe and Africa.

"I'm applying European environmental technologies and approaches in African contexts, adapting them to local conditions. It's incredibly fulfilling to bridge these two worlds and contribute to sustainable development in my home continent."

Advice for Future Students

When asked what advice she would give to African students considering European education, Oluwaseun emphasizes preparation and mindset.

"Research thoroughly. Not just the universities and programs, but the cities, cost of living, and cultural aspects. Reach out to alumni through LinkedIn or university networks. Their insights are invaluable and often more realistic than official university information."

"Be open to transformation. You won't return as the same person who left. The experience changes your perspective, challenges your assumptions, and reshapes your worldview. Embrace this growth rather than resisting it."

"Finally, think about how you'll bring your knowledge back to Africa. The continent needs its educated young people to return and apply their skills. Your European education becomes most valuable when it addresses African challenges."

Oluwaseun's journey demonstrates how determination, careful planning, and resilience can transform educational aspirations into reality, creating a bridge between continents and cultures that benefits both.