Written by Nicholas Mwendwa
Laikipia University
According to the current economic situation in the country, the rising prices of essential commodities have made life difficult for many university students. Differences in economic backgrounds have also contributed to different lifestyles among students. While some students can comfortably afford their basic needs and luxuries, others struggle to meet their daily expenses. These economic differences have created challenges for students as they adjust to university life.
Peer pressure has become a major issue affecting university students. The desire to live a better life on campus often depends on the financial support students receive from their parents, personal earnings, side hustles, businesses, and the kinds of friends they associate with. Some students feel pressured to imitate the lifestyles of their friends, even when they cannot afford them. This can lead to financial difficulties and poor decision-making.
The standards of living among university students vary depending on their personal choices, economic backgrounds, friendships, and family circumstances. These differences can be seen in their dressing styles, haircuts, hairstyles, food choices, places of residence, and the luxuries they own, such as smartphones and laptops. The way students spend their leisure time also reflects their financial abilities and personal preferences.
Food is one of the basic needs that illustrates the economic challenges facing university students. Normally, students are expected to take breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. However, some students are forced to survive on only one meal a day, mainly because of the high cost of food on campus and the difficult economic situation in the country. Students who can afford three meals a day may unintentionally make their financially disadvantaged friends feel uncomfortable or left behind. This difference can increase pressure among students and make campus life more challenging for those who struggle financially.
Luxuries such as expensive smartphones, laptops, fashionable clothes, and other personal possessions are sometimes used to measure a student's economic status. Some students spend considerable amounts of money on expensive and fashionable clothing in an attempt to fit in with their peers. Others may feel that their ordinary clothes are not good enough because they do not match the prevailing fashion trends. As a result, some students experience pressure to change their appearance and spending habits to gain acceptance from others.
The desire to maintain a luxurious lifestyle can also encourage some students to engage in unethical activities to obtain money. When students feel compelled to match the lifestyles of their wealthier friends, they may make irresponsible decisions that negatively affect their education, personal development, and future goals. It is therefore important for students to understand that their financial backgrounds differ and that material possessions do not determine a person's worth.
Some students find it difficult to accept their economic circumstances because they want to appear equal to their peers. Living in a society where students have different financial abilities can become a source of stress, especially when individuals compare themselves with others. Such comparisons may create feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with their own lives.
Students should learn to accept their circumstances without allowing social media or peer pressure to control their lives. They should appreciate their financial situations, live within their means, and avoid comparing themselves with others. A peaceful life involves accepting one's current circumstances while understanding that situations can change over time. Students should also develop realistic financial plans and focus on their personal growth rather than competing with their peers.
Attending lectures and pursuing academic goals should remain the main priorities of every university student. Although university life offers opportunities to make friends and enjoy new experiences, students should associate with people who encourage positive behaviour, academic excellence, and responsible decision-making. Building meaningful friendships is important because supportive friends can help one another during difficult times. Making wise choices about friendships, spending habits, and personal priorities can help students overcome the challenges of peer pressure and economic hardship.
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