Charles Thuo’s Journey from Kenya

In 1999, Charles Thuo departed Kenya to seek higher education in the United States, marking the beginning of a journey filled with various challenges and successes.

Reflecting on his three decades in America, Charles shared his mixed experiences with Citizen Digital, discussing valuable lessons, mistakes, and joyful moments throughout his time abroad.

Charles recounted moving to the U.S. in 2010, shortly after completing his first year at Kenyatta University. “I was eager for opportunities, as we always admired the West,” he explained.

To facilitate his move, Charles had to borrow a bank statement from a family friend, who understood his ambition despite initially advising him to wait until he finished his undergraduate studies. Determined, he forged ahead, as he was the first in his family to pursue education in the U.S.

After navigating the U.S. Embassy bureaucracy in Nairobi and successfully answering questions about his motivation for studying abroad, Charles was granted a visa. “I wanted to study Civil Engineering and return to improve Kenya’s infrastructure,” he stated.

Upon arriving in the U.S., Charles experienced the fast-paced lifestyle of a 24-hour economy, noting the absence of familiar Kenyan foods and the different social dynamics. His initial job was in a warehouse, where he pulled long hours juggling classes and work, leading to little sleep.

Charles emphasized the isolation many students face in the U.S., stating, “It can be lonely unless you share a job with friends. Social gatherings are scarce due to everyone’s work schedules.” He highlighted that while opportunities abound, they often come at the expense of social life. Now, he runs a trucking business, having cycled through various jobs before moving away from engineering. Watch the full video on Citizen Digital.