A Kenyan girl Rhoda Ouma who benefited from Zawadi Africa scholarship and was studying at Meredith College in North Carolina in the United States graduated on Saturday from the college.
Zawadi Africa, an educational fund founded by Susan Mboya Kidero has helped several girls secure scholarships in different universities around the world.
When Rhoda Ouma arrived at RDU International Airport four years ago to begin her Meredith education she didn’t know what to expect, but she was determined to take advantage of every opportunity.
According to Susan Mboya, Rhoda maximised her time at Meredith, conducting research, completing two internships, and being an active student leader.
In the first year, Rhoda worked with a faculty member to research interactions between the zinc ion and the beta amyloid peptide, which are thought to cause Alzheimer’s disease.
She completed internships at Metabolon Inc., a leading biochemical diagnostics firm in Research Triangle Park, first as an analytical laboratory intern and then in project management.
“Having two internships has helped my resume stand out.Through that experience I’ve been able to apply what I learned in the classroom to real life biotechnology applications.”she said. Rhoda served in leadership roles on campus, including as Meredith International Association vice president and a student adviser.
She completed nearly all Meredith’s leadership programmes, and volunteered with the Sister Cities Association of Raleigh.
Her Meredith education was well-rounded. While earning a Bachelor of Science in chemistry with a minor in mathematics, she also took courses in a variety of disciplines.
“Meredith College provides the opportunity to take classes from various departments outside your major which builds an integrated skill set,” Rhoda said. “I have been able to take computer programming, public speaking, statistics, and research classes. Taking sociology and religion classes have expanded my way of thinking because the classes encourage you to see the world through a different lens.”
After working for a few years, Rodda plans to go to graduate school.
“Meredith College has encouraged me to think differently, and to get involved and engaged in leadership activities, which have prepared me for the next step in my life. If I could do it over again, I’d choose Meredith.”
To date, Zawadi has disbursed over 230 scholarships, valued at over $45 million to students from six African countries.
-The Star
