I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. For me, America is synonymous with freedom. Not only in actions but in thought and knowledge. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I intend to be one of such people. Studying in this country has opened up my mind to a whole new world of possibilities concerning what a government "for the people" should look like. I would like to see my country achieve the same level of educational freedom that America has formulated. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth in Lekki, less than 5 minutes from my parents’ home. The lack of order and integrity is upsetting. My country needs people who are willing and knowledgeable to represent them. Having gained admission into a BA/MA program in Economics, I intend to continue this route by obtaining a Ph.D. This will provide me with resources to conduct extensive research into the economic/sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently, making feasible suggestions for improvement in Nigeria and the ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

As a resident assistant, I interact with people of different backgrounds. In this role, I am responsible for the well-being of over 70 students on my floor and about 400 students in the entire hall. My skills in conflict resolution not only applied to resolving disputes but helping with internal conflicts – such as decision making. I built relationships and fostered a sense of community despite the constraints presented by COVID-19. Becoming a writing tutor was a rare opportunity that enabled me to participate in meaningful conversations about many unfamiliar topics. I built mutually beneficial relationships with writers, tutors, and faculty. Through tutoring, I gained professional knowledge and experience. I challenged myself to think and gain perspective about others’ thought processes. This fall, I was elected into Undergraduate Student Government as the Senator for the Honors College. In this role, I am supporting incentives to promote sustainability on campus through electronics recycling bins and outdoor solar-powered charging stations. I am also working on an initiative for graduating students to repurpose their old materials through an inventory which provides materials for incoming or current students. The goal of this initiative is to make college more affordable for students. Over the summer, I worked as an orientation leader for incoming students. I was able to offer my perspective as an international student and support students as they acclimated to their new environment. This role was particularly important to me as I too was in their shoes just a few years ago and would have greatly appreciated some help navigating campus life. In 2021, I applied for the combined BA/MA in economics program. I intend to build on the foundation I have developed and further my understanding of economic theory. This will serve as the groundwork for my pursuit of a doctoral degree; the knowledge I gain in this master’s degree program would expand my perception and knowledge and bolster my subsequent Ph.D. application. In my time at Kent State University, I have earned nearly perfect scores on all my economics finals, as my professors can attest. My success in my previous classes has convinced me that I am capable of handling more challenging courses. I plan my schedule for months in advance because I take my responsibilities, such as school and work, very seriously. Thus, I maintained a 3.9 GPA while working 20 hours a week as a Resident Assistant, tutoring at the writing commons, and taking 18 credits.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. I have encountered many stumbling blocks and they have taught me that there is nothing I cannot overcome with the right attitude and a lot of effort. This scholarship will enable me to overcome my most pressing stumbling block – funds –, continue my academic career, and uphold the fervor I have maintained so far. Coming from a largely impoverished country, pursuing an education in the United States is something only few can dream of. I have made this dream a reality through diligence and determination. My parents were never wealthy; at 50 years old they have never owned a home, they worked for years with no retirement in sight, and they sacrificed everything to provide for my sister and me. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, and shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite has these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. As a resident assistant at Kent State, I constantly interact with people of different backgrounds and helped resolve their problems. My skills in conflict resolution not only applied to resolving disputes but helping with internal conflicts – such as decision-making. I built relationships and fostered a sense of community despite the constraints presented by COVID-19. Becoming a writing tutor enabled me to participate in meaningful conversations about many unfamiliar topics. I built mutually beneficial relationships with writers, tutors, and faculty. Through tutoring, I gained knowledge and experience in theoretical and practical applications of writing. I challenged myself to think and gain perspective about others’ thought processes. Similarly, I contributed my unique outlook to the writing commons. I have encountered many stumbling blocks and they have taught me that there is nothing I cannot overcome with the right attitude and a lot of effort. This scholarship will enable me to overcome my most pressing stumbling block – funds –, continue my academic career, and uphold the fervor I have maintained so far. Coming from a largely impoverished country, pursuing an education in the United States is something only few can dream of. I have made this dream a reality through diligence and determination. My parents were never wealthy; at 50 years old they have never owned a home, they have worked for years with no retirement in sight, and they sacrificed everything to provide for my sister and me.

I learned the value of a good education from a young age. My parents firmly believe in the popular adage that knowledge itself is power and I have grown to adopt their sentiments. In my home country, Nigeria, only those who have power can determine the nation’s fate. Unfortunately, most of those with power often acquire it through less than noble means and with equally reprehensible intentions. For decades the plague of illiteracy has blinded the country to the ills of their government. Only those with education and knowledge oppose them, shed light on their misdeeds – but they are far too few in number. Their voices are quickly snuffed out by the corrupt facets of the government; in attempts to cover their tracks, the powerful elite have these people arrested, discredited, or, in worse cases, they simply “disappear”. If they ever hope to successfully counter the corruption of our government they need to grow in size and strength. I intend to make myself a valuable contribution to my country by obtaining a good education. My ultimate career goal is to be involved in public policy. This desire was solidified by the recent massacre of Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate in Lagos, a less than 5-minute drive from my parents’ home. The youth had finally begun to acknowledge the evils their parents had long ignored and they were fatally punished for it. 12 dead, murdered by their own government for daring to question them. But for time and place, I could have been one of those who tragically lost their lives that day. Our government responds with inexplicable silence for the most part; the one time we actually need them to speak they are silent. And, once they did speak, they insulted our intelligence with unbelievable lies. My country has been torn to shreds by party politics. For decades, the same men have switched from one party to the next to pursue their own selfish agenda. These men do not care about the development of the country. Now, when we need action, all these parties are silent. The lack of order, and integrity is embarrassing and upsetting. My country needs people who are willing, capable, and adequately knowledgeable to represent them. I want to be one of such people but I am far from done as far as learning is concerned. In 2021, I was admitted into a combined BA/MA program in Economics. I intend to continue down this route and ultimately obtain a Ph.D. Through this, I will have the knowledge and resources to conduct extensive research into the economic and sociopolitical climate of my country. Consequently making feasible suggestions for improvement not only in Nigeria but the entire ECOWAS territory.