The Road May Be Tough, But the Rewards Are Greater” — Onyeukwu Nneka on Her Journey from Nigeria to the UK

In this exclusive interview, Onyeukwu Nneka, a driven and accomplished professional originally from Imo State, Nigeria, has charted an inspiring path from her home country to the global stage.

Nneka, a graduate of Linguistics and Communication Studies from the University of Port Harcourt, and now an MSc holder in Human Resources Management from the University of Salford, UK, with a distinction, shares her educational journey, challenges, and triumphs as an international student and young professional. Her story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of education.

Nneka, can you tell us about your educational background and what led you to study in the UK?

I’m originally from Imo State, Nigeria, and growing up, education was always important to me. I come from a family that deeply values continuous learning, so pursuing higher education was a natural step.

After obtaining my degree in Linguistics and Communication Studies from the University of Port Harcourt, I decided to pursue further studies in the UK.

The decision to study in the UK was influenced by the country’s reputation for world-class education. I wanted to be in an environment where I could gain not only academic knowledge but also practical, real-world experience.

The University of Salford stood out because of its focus on industry-relevant education and hands-on learning, which aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. I was eager to expand my horizons, gain a global perspective, and engage with a diverse student community.

How did studying abroad impact your personal and professional growth?

Studying abroad opened my eyes to a world of possibilities. Personally, it helped me develop a greater sense of independence and self-confidence. The experience of living in a new country and adjusting to its cultural and social dynamics was challenging, but it made me more adaptable. Professionally, it expanded my network and exposed me to cutting-edge research and innovation in human resources management.

One of the most rewarding aspects was my internship experience, which I secured through the University’s Careers and Enterprise team and the 10,000 Black Interns program. I worked as an HR consultant during my studies, and after impressing the company, they offered me a part-time role.

This opportunity gave me hands-on insights into organizational dynamics and employee relations, enhancing my employability upon graduation.

What challenges did you face as an international student, and how did you overcome them?

Moving from Nigeria to the UK came with its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was adjusting to the cultural environment and educational system. The pace of life, social dynamics, and teaching methods were all new to me. I had to adapt quickly to independent study and a different approach to assessments, which was initially daunting.

Another challenge was financial. Managing tuition fees, living expenses, and the rising exchange rate was overwhelming at times. I worked up to 20 hours a week to support myself, which required careful planning and budgeting. However, these challenges taught me resilience and resourcefulness, and I came out stronger for it.

What are some of your proudest accomplishments during your journey?

One of my proudest accomplishments is not only earning a distinction in Human Resources Management but also securing a permanent role just two weeks after graduating. I now practice HR with a global IT organization, which is a huge milestone for me. Beyond academics, I’ve grown into a more confident and well-rounded individual. My time in the UK has also allowed me to connect with a global community, broadening my worldview and strengthening my communication and collaboration skills—lessons that will stay with me for life.

What advice would you give to younger generations aspiring to follow in your footsteps?

My advice is simple: stay focused and be persistent. The path to success is not easy, and there will be moments of doubt, but resilience is key. Embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and remember why you started the journey. Seek support from mentors, peers, or family when needed, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Education is not just about earning a degree—it’s about the personal growth that happens along the way.

Finally, what’s next for you?

Looking ahead, I plan to continue growing professionally in human resources, focusing on areas such as organizational development, diversity, equity, and inclusion. I’m also passionate about giving back and mentoring others, particularly international students and young professionals. I believe my journey is proof that the road may be tough, but the rewards are even greater if you stay committed to your goals.

Nneka’s journey from Nigeria to the UK is a powerful story of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence. Her experiences serve as an inspiration for anyone striving for success in their academic and professional endeavors.