As I pen this story, Jhené Aiko's "Born Tired" loops in the background, a fitting soundtrack for a narrative penned during Black History Month and a testament to the journey of resilience and discovery I've embarked upon.
Home, as Warsan Shire, a British-Somalia poet suggests that “At the end of the day, it isn’t where I came from. Maybe home is somewhere I’m going and never have been before.” The idea of home not as a place of origin, but as a destination of becoming echoes my transition from Lagos, Nigeria to Kent. This 18-month journey from fall 2022 has profoundly reshaped my notions of home, belonging and purpose.
Choosing Kent State was a crucial decision, one made even more significant by the array of options available to me.
Yet, it was the call of "Flashes Take Care of Flashes" that ultimately cemented my choice, promising a nurturing community that would become a home away from home.
This promise has been fulfilled time and again, through the warmth and support of students, faculty and the broader Kent community, making it a haven of safety and belonging. On my first day on campus when a cashier, upon seeing my payment dilemma, offered to cover the cost of my meal, this gesture of kindness from a stranger deeply moved me. This act exemplified the supportive spirit of Kent State, compelling me to 'pay it forward' in similar situations. My journey has been enriched by numerous individuals, from my work supervisors to college advisors and mentors, each leaving an indelible mark on my path and contributing to my sense of belonging in this new home.
Dr. Eboni Pringle, the Senior Vice President of Student Life, once described two archetypes of university students: those who merely check the academic boxes, and those who immerse themselves deeply by becoming catalysts of leadership and change. I count myself fortunate to be among the latter.
There were moments, however, when the weight of adaptation like second guessing if I belonged here, yearning for new horizons, and moments of introspection often accompanied by the soulful lyrics of "Born Tired" clouded my mind. It was during such times that a conversation with a Professor, interwoven with Aiko's reflective verses, rekindled my purpose and resolve. "Look at how far you have come... you gotta keep going." These words, both spoken and sung, served as a beacon, guiding me back to my mission and the community engagements that defined my early days at Kent. My conviction was reinforced when I was honored with the 2023, I AM FIRST Undergraduate Student Award.
This accolade, recognizing the resilience and achievements of first-generation students like me, underscored the depth of my engagement beyond the classroom.
I jumped into community service through my involvement with Habitat for Humanity, an experience that not only connected me to the Kent community, but also offered a profound sense of fulfillment through direct acts of service. Leadership, as I have come to understand transcends titles. It's about growth, accountability and the courage to challenge the status quo. Inspired by Jenna Gilbreth's heartfelt address during my orientation, I dove into student governance aspiring to bridge the gap between the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) and the student body.
As the first international student appointed as a first-year intern, and subsequently elected as the Director of Community Affairs for USG, I’m fortunate to have played a role in paving the way for other international students who seek to be future leaders, demonstrating that leadership is accessible to all irrespective of race, origin or creed. In both roles, I’m proud to say I was vocal in creating a more diverse student government; in my current role, I’m building upon the groundwork laid by my predecessors to address homelessness in Kent.
Beyond USG, my involvement extends to participating in the Black United Students (BUS) programming committee, where I played a key role in the production team for the iconic 52nd BUS Renaissance Ball. I am also actively engaged with other student organizations, including Nigerians in Kent (NIK). These roles have significantly enriched my journey, introducing me to lifelong friends and broadening my horizons. My on-campus job with the Division of Information Technology has been another avenue that has helped me connect with Kent outside the classroom and student organizations.
Kent has offered more than academic and extracurricular opportunities; it has been a sanctuary where I could indulge in the simple pleasures of life, from cycling on the Portage Trail to exploring the city's culinary diversity.
Among these treasures, the warm embrace of my host family, The Denges, through the International Friendship Connection stands out. Their kindness and support have greatly deepened my sense of belonging; making me proud of this city that has played a pivotal role in shaping me into the person I am today.
As I stand on the cusp of my final year, my commitment to service and inclusive leadership within USG remains unwavering. My candidacy for 2024/2025 Student Body President is fueled by a vision of a student government deeply connected with every student's needs and aspirations.
Although it seems farfetched, approaching the situation on a 1:1 basis is a commitment to individualized attention and tailored support for each student. This ensures that the unique needs and voices of the students are heard and acted upon within the USG. In this journey, I've learned that 'home' is more than a place; it's a feeling of being understood and accepted for who we are. Kent State has been that home for me.
As I look to the future, I am inspired to extend that sense of home to others, ensuring that every student can confidently say, "I am valued, I belong, and I am not alone." I share my experience with Flash, my cat whose name was given to him at the shelter perfectly captures the spirit of being a Flash and caring for another Flash. Echoing Maya Angelou’s words, "the ache for home lives in all of us." Here at Kent, amidst the shared dreams and aspirations of this vibrant community, I've found more than a home, I've discovered a launching pad for dreams; a sanctuary for growth; a family bound not by blood, but by shared aspirations and collective triumphs. And as I move forward, I carry with me the indelible spirit of Kent State, committed to nurturing this sense of belonging wherever life takes me.