Meet Nifasha Rusibamayila. She graduated from Boston University with a Masters of Public Health in May 2020. She shares her experience navigating global education and financing her studies through 8B.
1. Was the 8B ISA your first loan? How has the 8B ISA worked for you?No, it was not my first loan, but it was very helpful. It helped me pay part of my second semester tuition.
2. What have you learned about money from the experience of the 8B ISA?I gained more financial literacy and now understand how share agreements work versus loans.
3. How did you choose where to go to school?Boston University gave me more scholarship money and it also has one of the best MPH programs in the US. My university experience went beyond my expectations.
4. How was your experience at a global university as an African?A bit challenging to be honest. I feel Africans have to work extra hard just to get where we want. The competition is also very high because we are competing for the same resources as each other.
5. What mistakes should Africans navigating global spaces avoid?Try to be open minded as much as you can. One conversation, or just saying hello, can change everything.
6. Can you be abroad and still contribute to Africa?Yes you can. There are so many opportunities these days. It’s just a matter of knowing who to reach out to.
7. Why does Africa need world class educated professionals?We have more exposure and I think, to be honest, western education and experience prepares you very well to tackle most issues here in Africa.
8. What have you accomplished this past semester?I started a new job in my industry. I am working at HEOR consultancy as a SAS programmer.
9. What would you tell other young ambitious Africans?Networking is key. Try to reach out and speak to as many people as you can.
8B is connecting African students with the information, financing, and mentorship they need to succeed. Learn more about Ladder, our mentor matching platform, and how you can benefit as a mentor or a mentee.
