Away from Home: A Qualitative Exploration of Health Experiences of Nigerian Students in UK University

ABSTRACT

This study explored the factors that contribute to the health experience of Nigerian students in the UK. Challenges faced by international students include dietary issues, isolation, stress, depression and others. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted combination of purposive sampling and snowball sampling techniques were used to recruit participants for the study. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic content analysis and Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to interpret themes. Two major themes from our findings were discussed under broad headings: Transitional changes and financial capability. These findings have practical implications for Nigerian students’ well-being in UK University. Cultural dimension is needed to reduce culture shock experience among international students during sojourning.

Keywords: Dietary, experience, health, Nigerian students