DAILYTRUST
A Nigerian, Emmanuel Oluwasayomi Ahmadu, was recently honoured with two academic honourary doctorate degrees in the USA where he’s currently doing his postgraduate programme. Emmanuel’s story is a testament to resilience and determination in the face of recurrent failures. He first gained international attention in 2018 when he won the International Award for Student Brand of the Year in West Africa while an undergraduate at the University of Benin (UNIBEN). Despite facing immense personal challenges, including attending 16 primary schools and 14 secondary schools due to family instability, Emmanuel persevered. He sat for his O’level examination 17 times over five years before passing, showcasing unparalleled determination. In this interview, he speaks on his postgraduate academic journey in the US; his recent doctorate honours and other activities in the US, among others.
Briefly tell us about your journey into your postgraduate studies in the US; was it through scholarship or self-sponsorship?
My journey into postgraduate studies in the US has been both inspiring and challenging. Initially, I was admitted to Cleveland State University to study school counseling in their graduate programme. However, I decided to transfer to Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) to gain a deeper understanding of the career I was entering. At Tri-C, I am pursuing an Associate degree in Applied Science in Human Services. This opportunity was made possible through a combination of self-sponsorship and various scholarships that recognised my dedication to mental health advocacy and academic excellence. The journey has been a significant milestone, reflecting my commitment to overcoming adversity and fostering positive change.
Why the choice of the programme?
This programme aligns with my passion for mental health advocacy and provides a strong foundation for my ongoing efforts to support and empower young people. Since the Fall 2021, I have been pursuing two Associate Degrees in Liberal Arts and Applied Sciences in Human Services, which I am on track to complete by Fall 2025. The programme includes three semesters of unpaid internships, allowing me to work with children and families facing mental health concerns in the community.
Additionally, my academic pursuits have been enriched by my recent honours, including an honorary Doctorate Degree in International Affairs from Global Seminary University, New York, and a Professional Doctoral Fellowship from The Across Global Institute of Foreign Languages. These recognitions highlight my distinguished contributions to promoting peace and mental wellness around the globe.
What stage are you currently in your programme?
I am in the advanced stages of my programme at Tri-C, having made significant progress in both my coursework and practical experiences. My involvement in various leadership roles, such as serving as Student Government President and Vice President of the Joint Student Council Board across five campuses, has provided me with invaluable experiences and insights. These roles have allowed me to make meaningful contributions to my community while honing my leadership and advocacy skills. My academic journey is complemented by my roles with the United States Federal Department of Education and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), where I actively contribute to advancing mental health services and suicide prevention initiatives.
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