Ghanaian-born and UK-based Seth Odei Asare recently shared his journey on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwideshow with DJ Nyaami. Seth, originally from Aburi, currently lives in Aberdeen, Scotland. He moved to the UK in August 2023 to pursue a Master’s degree in Law.
Before relocating, Seth lived in Accra but frequently traveled between Accra and Suhum, where his family resided. He attended Ghana Communication Technology University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Accounting. During his studies, he served as the President of the Business School and graduated as the Best Taxation Student. He had previously completed a diploma, where he was recognized as the Best Overall Accounting Student.
After university, Seth did his National Service at a ride-hailing company similar to Uber, where he acted as a project manager. However, due to a slowdown in business, job opportunities became scarce. He later worked as a supervisor and then moved to Achimota Mall. Seth had always aspired to pursue a Master’s degree abroad but faced multiple visa rejections. He first applied to study in the U.S. but was denied. Determined, he attempted again through the U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire but was rejected once more.
While in Ghana, Seth co-managed a food business selling pork and yam chips at Achimota Neoplan with his sister. Despite its initial success, rising food prices made it difficult to sustain. His sister, who worked at Ridge Hospital, provided the capital, while Seth contributed his business expertise.
Still eager to study abroad, he applied to multiple universities and received 12 admissions. He ultimately secured a full scholarship to Robert Gordon University in the UK to study Law. Unlike Ghana, where law studies require a prior legal background, the UK allowed him to enroll despite having only studied business law during his undergraduate degree.
Seth arrived in the UK with very little—only two bags and an empty bank account. Friends and well-wishers contributed to his travel expenses. His journey was not smooth; while at Kotoka International Airport, his phone screen stopped working, and it only came back on briefly in Dubai. At the airport, he nearly missed his connecting flight, but a Ghanaian airport worker assisted him, ensuring he boarded in time. After a delay in Newcastle, he finally arrived in Aberdeen, where his childhood friend hosted him.
Seth quickly made an impact at his university. Drawing from his leadership experience in Ghana, he successfully ran for Law School President, despite never having studied law before. Under his leadership, he introduced significant changes, including designing a new logo for the law school and organizing trips to legal institutions such as The Hague in the Netherlands and the International Telecommunication Union.
Later, he was encouraged to run for the university-wide student president position. He won, marking the first time a Ghanaian student had held the position, breaking the long-standing dominance of Nigerian students. His victory was historic, as only one Ghanaian MP had achieved a similar feat decades ago. His role as president required full-time commitment, leading him to pause his studies temporarily.
Seth describes Scotland as an affordable and student-friendly place, though job opportunities are not as abundant as in London. He notes that rent and food costs are lower, with a two-bedroom apartment costing around £700 and a one-bedroom apartment going for £450. The presence of seven African shops in Aberdeen also makes life more convenient for international students.
Through his involvement in student leadership, Seth had the opportunity to meet with UK government officials, including the Minister of Information, to discuss international students’ contributions. His input influenced policies that benefited students.
Seth encourages prospective travelers to conduct thorough research before moving abroad. He emphasizes that life overseas is not just about making money but also about making a difference. He believes his education and experiences will allow him to return to Ghana and contribute to national development.
Despite the challenges he faced, Seth remains optimistic about his future and is determined to use his acquired knowledge to help Ghana.
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