As Musa Omar Musa Abdalla prepares to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Strathmore University’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences, he looks back on a university journey marked by academic excellence, transformative leadership, personal growth, and an enduring passion for international affairs.

For Musa, choosing International Studies was a natural decision. His fascination with different cultures, nations, and global political systems inspired him to pursue a degree that would allow him to better understand the forces shaping the international system. He was particularly drawn to the role of multinational corporations, especially within the energy sector, and the influence they exert on global markets, supply chains, and economic development.

“I have always been deeply fascinated by learning about and engaging with different cultures, nations, and states, particularly how they are shaped by historical events, political developments, and international relations,” he explains. Looking back on the past four years, Musa describes his Strathmore experience as transformative and rewarding.

“When I joined four years ago, I came as a young man with big dreams and ambitions. Today, I can confidently say that Strathmore has played a pivotal role in shaping me both personally and professionally,” he says. His dedication to academic excellence has been evident. Among his proudest achievements is receiving the Dean’s List Academic Excellence Award for four consecutive years while maintaining the high standards required to graduate with First Class Honours.

For Musa, this accomplishment represents years of discipline, sacrifice, and hard work, supported by the encouragement of his family. “Receiving the Dean’s List Academic Excellence Award for four consecutive years and graduating with First Class Honours is my proudest academic achievement at Strathmore University,” he says.

Beyond the classroom, mentorship played a significant role in shaping his university experience. Musa credits Dr. James Nyawo as one of the individuals who had the greatest impact on his journey. According to Musa, Dr. Nyawo recognized his potential from the moment he joined the university and consistently provided guidance, encouragement, and support whenever needed. Through mentorship that extended beyond academics, he helped Musa build confidence and develop both professionally and personally. “His belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to push myself further,” Musa reflects.

Like many high-achieving students, Musa faced challenges balancing academics with personal development and extracurricular commitments. Maintaining academic excellence while pursuing leadership opportunities required strong organizational skills, discipline, and effective time management. He overcame these challenges by remaining focused on his long-term goals and consistently applying himself to every responsibility he undertook.

One of the most valuable lessons he learned during his time at Strathmore is the importance of consistency. “Hard work and consistency are the ultimate cheat codes to success,” he says. “Talent and ambition are important, but sustained effort, discipline, and commitment to one’s goals are what ultimately produce meaningful and lasting results.”

Outside academics, Musa demonstrated leadership through his involvement in the Strathmore University Student Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Hub, where he served as the finance and partnerships lead. In this role, he mobilized resources and established strategic partnerships to support initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

His engagement in co-curricular activities further strengthened his passion for international relations. One particularly memorable experience was participating in an African Union visa-free simulation, where he represented the Delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania. The simulation provided him with an opportunity to engage with diplomatic processes and gain practical insights into international negotiations and policymaking.

“Following consultations with diplomats from the High Commission of the United Republic of Tanzania in Nairobi, I gained valuable insights into diplomatic negotiations and policymaking,” he says. While academic and leadership achievements marked important milestones in his university journey, Musa says the friendships he built along the way remain among his most cherished memories. “The people I met here have become more than just friends; they have become family,” he says.

As he prepares for the next chapter of his life, Musa hopes to work for the African Union and contribute to advancing Africa’s interests on the global stage. He is particularly passionate about promoting Africa’s cultural values and helping strengthen the continent’s economic, political, and social influence in an increasingly interconnected world. “Ultimately, I aspire to be part of a generation of leaders dedicated to advancing the continent’s prosperity and long-term development,” he says.

Musa believes Strathmore has equipped him with the academic foundation, leadership experience, professional values, and critical thinking skills necessary to pursue these ambitions. Through rigorous coursework, mentorship, and practical learning opportunities, he has developed a strong understanding of international affairs, diplomacy, and global economic dynamics.

Reflecting on his experience, he encourages current students to make the most of the opportunities available to them. “Build meaningful relationships, seek mentorship, and always strive to become a better version of yourself,” he advises. As graduation approaches, Musa leaves Strathmore with gratitude for the people, experiences, and lessons that have shaped him into the person he is today.”My Strathmore experience has been a transformative journey of growth, excellence, and self-discovery that shaped me into a more confident, disciplined, and globally minded individual.”

For Musa Omar Musa Abdalla, graduation is not simply the end of a university journey, it is the beginning of a lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and contributing to Africa’s place in the global community.

Article written by: Jonathan Icubahiro