Back in Cameroon, I was told that Strathmore University is the best university for international students in Africa. However, that was not enough proof, so I googled videos and photos to learn more about it. The curiosity created by what I saw could only be quenched by becoming a Stratizen. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from the Fomic Polytechnic University. I came to Kenya over two years ago and I am currently pursuing the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course at the Strathmore Institute.

I grew up in a town called Melong near Duala which is the economic capital of Cameroon. I am fluent in French and can speak and understand English. Kiswahili is still a challenge but I understand it better now than I did when I first came.

Growing up in Cameroon

I come from a polygamous family, the sixth child among 13 siblings. My father is a farmer and my mother is a retired nursery school teacher. During school holidays we all helped our father cultivate the farm.  He is passionate about farming and wanted us all to learn how to take risks in life like a farmer does with every coming season, never giving up come what may. A few times we slept over at the farm since our homestead was far away.  As a family, we always eat together and that has helped create a stronger bond among us. I miss my family and the dances we used to have but I am looking forward to going back there after my studies.

Being a Stratizen

My studies at Strathmore have been awesome and I consider myself a Strathmore enthusiast. I have a great mentor in Dr. George Njenga, the Executive Dean of the Strathmore University Business School. He has helped me stay on course while giving back to society. For example, I am the Cameroonian Student Ambassador. When I visit home I mentor primary and secondary students who aspire to join the University. Being a student is a season in life and one must be willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Education is a long-term investment and it requires rare and costly resources such as time and money. For those that have a shot at being educated, remember the quote that says a man’s mind, stretched by new ideas, may never return to its original dimensions…..As we all seek to find what we are passionate about, learn to appreciate the challenges you face at every moment in your life. Embrace failure; those who make it in life are the ones who keep trying over and over again. Also when you learn to be willing to share with others since they will help broaden your worldview as you face the ever-changing world. Remember, we are all leaders at different levels of life and can influence others positively. But, above all, set out to acquire new knowledge since this helps boost your curiosity edge which, in turn, makes you a game-changer. Do not keep your ideas to yourself; share them because the books we all read today were once a thought in someone’s mind.”

 

This article was written by Annete Karanja.

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