Student Success Stories: South Sudan | World Student Advisors

South Sudan

A lasting friendship and an education journey

Arop Deng, parent, South Sudan

My relationship with Tim Hunt, Managing Director of World Student Advisors, began many years ago in Rome, where I was working with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). What started as a professional acquaintance developed into a lasting friendship. Over the years, Tim has helped my family through several stages of our children’s education in the United Kingdom.

Tim Hunt and Arop Deng outside the FAO headquarters in Rome — Tim & Arop, UN Rome

My son Leek was among the first in our family to benefit from Tim’s guidance. He studied for a master’s degree in Cybersecurity at the University of the West of England, Bristol, and subsequently became a lecturer at Weston College.

I particularly remember staying with Tim at his home in Kenilworth. We travelled to Bristol together to visit Leek at university. As a parent, it was reassuring to have someone alongside me who understood British higher education and took a personal interest in my son’s progress and wellbeing.

Tim Hunt and Arop Deng outside Tim’s house — Tim & Arop, Tim’s house, Kenilworth

Leek, Arop and Tim at a table at UWE Bristol — From left: Leek, Arop and Tim during a visit to UWE Bristol.

During that stay, Tim also invited me to join his friends, a group known as the “Epicureans”, at the Old Bakery pub. I did not know what to expect, but it became one of the most enjoyable evenings I have ever had. The lively conversation and the warmth of their welcome made me feel immediately among friends.

Arop with Tim and his friends at the Old Bakery pub — The Old Bakery, Kenilworth. Arop meeting Tim’s friends.

Tim’s support continued with my daughter, Agot, who joined Aberystwyth University in Wales alongside her friend from South Sudan, Winner Emmanuel. Agot studied Marketing for three years, and we were delighted to celebrate her graduation together with Tim.

Agot crossing the stage at her graduation ceremony — Agot receiving her degree from Prof. Jon Timmis, VC Aberystwyth University

Seeing Agot graduate was a proud moment for our family. It was particularly special to have her brothers, Deng and Leek, there to share the occasion.

Deng, Agot, Arop and Leek at Aberystwyth University — From left: Deng, Agot, Arop & Leek – family united.

When it was time to plan the next stage of education for my youngest son, Deng, I once again turned to Tim and World Student Advisors. WSA helped arrange his place on a GCSE programme at Bath Academy, where he began studying in September 2026.

Deng outside Bath Academy — Deng at Bath Academy

A family friend also went on to study at Queen’s University Belfast with similar support, extending this connection beyond our immediate family.

Sending a child overseas to study requires considerable trust. Knowing someone who understands your family, respects your aspirations and remains available throughout the journey makes the experience much more reassuring.

What I value most about Tim and World Student Advisors is that the relationship continues long after a school or university place has been secured. The support is personal, and the connection endures.

Tim has become much more than an education adviser. He is a trusted friend of our family.

I am grateful for his guidance across different stages of my children’s education, and I would gladly recommend World Student Advisors to other families seeking knowledgeable, reliable and personal support for studying in the United Kingdom.