Through our work here at South Manchester Credit Union we support local students. Stephen is a member who moved to the UK from Nigeria to complete his studies and pursue his passion for business development.
Stephen faced financial hurdles
Stephen had achieved his undergraduate degree in Nigeria, and he continued his postgraduate studies here in Manchester. However, Stephen was unable to pay his full tuition fees. He faced struggles during the cost-of-living crisis and sought financial support. He had already paid 70% of his fees but without paying the full balance he was at risk of being kicked off the course. Stephen became depressed fearing he would have to return home to Nigeria. Meaning that all the hard work he had put into his life here in the UK would have been wasted.
“I got to a point where I needed to find a way out because, If I didn’t, it would amount to me returning to Nigeria and everything I had spent money on would have been wasted”
Stephen initially reached out to the Student Union and came up against brick walls. That was until he spoke to his lecturer who recommended us to Stephen.
When Stephen found us
Stephen got in contact with us, he felt sceptical at first. This is because taking credit was something he wasn’t used to. However, after his application was approved, he felt relief.
“Does this mean I’m free? It gave me peace of mind, freedom to get through my education”
He felt we handled his application well and this is what he had to say about his experience:
“It was very professional, smooth and just within time. I felt I was treated with priority and for that I’m grateful. The receptiveness was good”
With his loan approved he was able to push on in his studies and finished top of his class. Stephen continues to confidently build his life here in Manchester.
Our ongoing support for Stephen through financial obstacles
Moving forward, everything was going well for Stephen – he got married, found a job he loved and also became a part-time lecturer at his university. Stephen was entering a new phase of life and wanted to move into a bigger home so he could start a family. He also needed to renew his visa – settling into a new country can be expensive and requires a lot of work and care.
He decided to approach us again, due to his previous experience with us.
“I feel you have been welcoming, so I thought yeah, I can still come back here”
Stephen also highlighted how we work with every member to make sure the loan repayments work for them and their situation.
“The payment method was quite friendly, you can pay £500, you can pay £400, I mean you can pay whichever is comfortable for you”
Stephens's advice for local students
We asked Stephen for his advice for local students facing the same financial hurdles.
“I would say, don’t give up if you have a dream. Just for myself, I wanted to attain a certain level of my education and I had to find every means to do it”
Stephen would recommend us as a great option for credit. “South Manchester Credit Union might just be the best place, as it’s genuine”.
In three words he describes us as “Excellent, professional, lifesaver”
We are grateful for the kind words Stephen.
Looking to the future
Just by hearing Stephen discuss his future, you can feel the positivity through the words.
“I am very optimistic about our future; I am planning on getting a mortgage, so I am working very hard. I am not someone who gives up, I always know that difficult times will come, but at the same time I’m giving myself to study, I’m giving myself to development and I put in my best.”
If you relate to Stephen and want to become a member, you can join today. It is simple. Check out our full range of loans and savings products and see how we can support you too.
Here at South Manchester Credit Union, we will continue to empower Stephen and local students like him through their financial journeys.
