From Tanzania to Aberdeen: My journey into Data Science at RGU

Samwel shares his journey from Tanzania to Aberdeen, including travelling to Scotland, settling in the Granite City and studying Data Science at RGU.

As I stepped out of the taxi, the cold Aberdeen air hit me like a surprise handshake from winter itself. I stood there, shivering, with a suitcase full of dreams and a heart full of excitement. This was it—my first time outside Tanzania, my first time in the UK, and the beginning of a whole new adventure!

The dream that led me here

Growing up in Tanzania, I never imagined that one day I would study abroad. I was settled in my routine—diving deep into my passion for data and embracing the familiar rhythm of life. The thought of leaving everything behind for a new adventure felt distant, almost unrealistic. But life has a way of throwing surprises when you least expect them.

Everything changed in 2022 when I reconnected with an old schoolmate who had just returned from Scotland. As he shared his experiences, I could see the spark in his eyes—the way he described the world-class education, the international exposure, and how studying in the UK had completely transformed his mindset. His enthusiasm was contagious. At that moment, something inside me shifted. “What if I could study abroad?”

That single thought planted a seed that quickly grew into an obsession. I spent months tirelessly researching scholarships, writing applications, and facing rejection after rejection. It was exhausting, frustrating, and at times, disheartening. But I refused to give up. Then, one day, after what felt like an eternity of waiting, I received the email that changed everything. I blinked at the screen, my heart racing. Was this real? Was I really going to the UK?

It took a moment to sink in, but when it did, excitement exploded within me. A new chapter of my life was about to begin! I am thankful to RGU and the Commonwealth Committee for sponsoring me and making my dream come true.

Why RGU? The perfect choice!

Choosing a university wasn’t just about ranking—it was about practical learning. I didn’t want to just read theories in books; I wanted to apply them.

RGU stood out because of its strong emphasis on real-world projects, labs, and coursework-based assessments.
Smaller class sizes meant I could interact with professors easily and get the most out of my education.
The support system for international students was incredible. Even before arriving, I was in contact with a staff member who guided me through the visa process and reassured me that Aberdeen was a friendly and welcoming city. I knew this was the right place for me.

The journey to the UK: A rollercoaster ride

The visa process? Nerve-wracking! If you’re planning to study abroad, here’s my first big tip:

Start early!
Triple-check your documents!
Prepare for a long wait—it’s normal!

Once my visa was approved, I booked my accommodation in advance—one of the smartest decisions I made. Finding housing last-minute would have been a nightmare.

Finally, the day arrived. Tanzania Amsterdam Aberdeen. I was ready. Or at least, I thought I was…

The unexpected Glasgow detour

Everything was going smoothly—until the weather had other plans. My flight from Amsterdam to Aberdeen was diverted to Glasgow due to bad weather. Suddenly, I found myself in a new country, with no idea how to get to Aberdeen!

For a moment, panic set in. But then, I reminded myself: This is part of the adventure! I asked a friendly Scottish local at the airport for advice. He recommended I take a public bus to Aberdeen—a long but scenic journey. From there, I hopped into a taxi, showed the driver my accommodation address (which I had wisely written down), and finally, after what felt like a lifetime of traveling, I arrived at my new home.

That experience taught me a valuable lesson: don’t be afraid to ask for help! People are generally kind and willing to assist—especially when they see you’re new.

First impressions of Aberdeen

My first week? Lonely. I arrived before the semester started, so the streets felt quiet. Coming from Tanzania—where social life is vibrant, and people gather in the streets—it was a huge contrast. Here, people seemed more private, focused on their own lives.

But everything changed once university started! Meeting my classmates from all over the world was an eye-opener. At RGU, the diversity is incredible—people from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Within days, I found myself making friends and feeling at home.

And while studies are my priority, I’ve learned that you also need to cool off a little, live, and enjoy the city—because this is a dream come true. I’ve loved surveying the city, exploring new places, and making unforgettable memories. One of my favourite experiences so far? SPECTRA 2025 in Aberdeen city centre—a mesmerizing festival of light that transforms the streets into a magical wonderland. Moments like these remind me why stepping out of my comfort zone was so worth it.

Life as an international student

Since moving here, I’ve had some unexpected cultural shocks and funny moments:

The Scottish Accent. At first, I thought people were speaking a different language! It took me a while to get used to it.
Supermarkets & Budgeting. Back home, I could just go to a small shop for anything. Here, I had to figure out where to shop on a student budget. (Tip: Lidl, Asda, and Primark are your best friends.)
Diversity & Friendships. So far, I haven’t met a single Tanzanian, but that has pushed me to make friends from different nationalities, step out of my comfort zone, and learn about new cultures.
Aberdeen is incredibly safe. Walking alone at night here is completely different from back home. I feel at ease, which is a huge plus.

Studying at RGU: Loving the learning process

One of my favourite things about RGU? The balance between theory and practice. Unlike some universities that rely only on exams, here we have:

Hands-on labs
Real-world projects
Practical coursework

Every assignment feels useful, not just something to memorize and forget after the exam. I can see the applications of what I’m learning, which makes studying so much more exciting

Advice for future international students

Thinking about studying abroad? DO IT. It will change your life in ways you can’t imagine. Here are my top tips to help make your transition smoother:

Start your visa process early—avoid last-minute stress!
Apply for accommodation in advance—you’ll thank yourself later.
Prepare for cultural differences—it’s all part of the adventure!
Budget wisely—look for student discounts and affordable stores.
Be open-minded—step out of your comfort zone, make new friends, and embrace the experience.

Final thoughts

Studying at RGU has been one of the best decisions of my life. From navigating unexpected travel hiccups to making lifelong friendships, every experience has shaped me in ways I never imagined. If you’re considering RGU—or studying abroad anywhere—go for it! You won’t regret it. It’s more than just a degree. It’s an adventure, a transformation, and a journey you’ll never forget.

Samwel Makombe

From recruiting students in India to becoming one at RGU

The post From Tanzania to Aberdeen: My journey into Data Science at RGU appeared first on RGU Student Blog.

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