Life during undergraduate years is indeed a memorable and formative period, filled with a multitude of experiences that shape one’s future.
At Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), the contrast between living in school hostels and private hostels provides a unique perspective on student life. Having experienced the life in UDUS hostels firsthand, I feel compelled to share my thoughts on the subject.
As one of the second-generation universities established in 1975 and located in the northwestern part of Nigeria, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) has garnered a reputation for not only academic excellence but also fostering character development through its vibrant campus life, particularly within its hostels.
In 2019, when I was offered admission to study Education English at the Department of Education Foundation, Faculty of Education and Extension Services, UDUS, I faced a crucial decision upon arriving on campus: whether to stay in the school hostel or opt for a private one. Fate led me to the school hostel, and it was a decision that profoundly shaped my undergraduate experience.
Life in the school hostel was charming, filled with students from diverse ethnic and tribal backgrounds.
This diversity initially made me question whether I could cope with such a varied environment. However, in my first year, I adapted and endured the challenges that came with communal living.
Despite the occasional trauma among female students and the sometimes unnecessary discussions, the opportunity to learn tolerance and recognize the diversity among students brought me joy.
Living in the school hostel taught me a fundamental lesson: everyone is different. Initially, I believed everyone had to think and act like me.
I soon realized that, just as our faces differ, so do our hearts and characters. Human beings are not equal, and this understanding was crucial for my personal growth.
There’s a saying in UDUS: if you can survive the hardship of the school hostel, you can stay anywhere in the world.
This resilience is because the school hostel exposes you to many challenges, helping you solve compatibility issues and adapt to various situations.
The experience broadened my knowledge about many aspects of life, enriched by the interactions with students from various faculties and departments.
One significant advantage of the school hostel is the affordability of hostel fees. This financial relief allows students to focus on their studies without the burden of high accommodation costs.
Moreover, residing in the school hostel provided opportunities to interact with senior colleagues who generously shared their used handouts and study materials, further aiding my academic journey.
The school hostel experience at UDUS is invaluable, teaching resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community.
Being surrounded by students from different backgrounds enriched my understanding of life and provided a supportive network that is crucial during the challenging moments of university life.
The camaraderie and shared experiences in the hostel foster a sense of belonging and mutual support, which are essential elements of personal and academic development.
In conclusion, my time in the UDUS school hostel has been a significant part of my undergraduate journey. It has offered lessons in tolerance, diversity, and resilience, along with unforgettable memories.
The experience has equipped me with the skills and mindset to face future challenges and thrive in diverse environments, making it an integral and cherished part of my educational journey.