OPINION

7,800 miles: What it’s like to be a WCC student living in Kenya

Illustration by Grace Faver

By Mohamed Ahmed

Contributor

There are 9,277 students, myself included, who are remote students at Washtenaw Community College according to the school’s 2022-23 annual report. Yet, amid this massive group, one number makes me unique: 7,800.

This colossal distance, measured in miles, separates me from the WCC campus. My unique journey unfolds in Nairobi, Kenya, where I make my way through the challenges and joys of my college education.

Balancing school from Kenya has its tough moments. I start my day at 6 p.m. EST when everything in Nairobi starts to slow down, and my night classes, which I have every semester, go from 2 to 5 a.m. Even deadlines at midnight are 7 a.m. deadlines for me.

It’s tricky, but I’ve figured out how to manage it.

The key to thriving in such a weird virtual learning is clever scheduling. I’ve mastered aligning my weekday routines with class schedules, ensuring I’m wide awake and engaged during those late-night sessions.

It’s about making the most of the time difference and finding a balance that keeps me on my toes.

Quality sleep is a treasure, especially when your classes run from late evening to the crack of dawn. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, mine roughly from 6 a.m. to noon, has been my secret weapon. It guarantees I’m well-rested and ready to stay up with my coursework.

Coffee has become my trusted sidekick that helps me handle such an unusual schedule.

More than just a beverage, it’s a ritual that keeps me sharp and motivated during those late-night study sessions. Sipping on my coffee in the serene hours of the night, I find comfort in a familiar routine that keeps me focused while the rest of my family dreams peacefully.

Communication is crucial, and I’ve learned the importance of open dialogue with my professors. Being transparent about my circumstances has fostered understanding and support, especially for evening classes.

Choosing classes that genuinely pique my interest has been a game-changer. Passion for the subject matter propels my motivation to attend those late-night sessions.

From Mythology to Intro to Journalism, choosing these evening classes helped me show up because it changed it from responsibility to interest in attending the classes.

There were times when I missed classes because I was simply tired, but sticking to this routine has helped me stay on top of my coursework.

My story is not what I had planned for myself but uniquely mine.

Late nights, a side of coffee addiction, and navigating unconventional hours, unexpected, yet oddly enjoyable.