From Zimbabwe to Wichita State University: Don's Journey of Growth
Read about Don's journey as an international student pursuing aerospace engineering. He reflects on his decision to study at WSU, his campus involvements, the challenges he has faced and the lessons he has learned along the way. Continue reading to learn more about Don's remarkable journey of growth!
"The wonderful thing about Wichita State is that there are so many communities that are caring and will open their arms for anyone."
Why did you choose Wichita State University?
I chose Wichita State University because of its affordability, friendly environment, and learning experience. Wichita State University, compared to other institutions, has amazing but affordable institution fees. On top of that, there are many scholarships for you to apply for! Besides good professors, there are lots of opportunities that expose you to hands-on learning experiences. When you are not working on exciting projects, you have the chance to apply your knowledge from on-campus jobs! This helps you to stand out and showcase your skills in the job market after graduating.
Why did you choose your major?
I chose aerospace engineering to continue to help connect families, friends, and people to each other from all over the world. Being able to video call someone is great but nothing will beat the feeling of being present with someone in the same space. This is why I chose aerospace.
Your involvements, internships, and jobs you have been in or had during your time here.
I had the privilege to take hold of most opportunities WSU offered. I was part of the rocket club and became an outreach chair member during my freshman year. I am a part of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and was a chair member for two years. I was part of the Student Activities Council (SAC), Cultural Ambassadors Program (CAP), and many more! There are so many clubs and activities for everyone, and if you think there isn’t, you can start your own! Besides on-campus involvement, I have had 3 wonderful working experiences from GoCreate, which is an incredible maker space, as well as the Crash Lab and Emerging Technologies, which are part of the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR). These experiences have shaped my skill levels in various aspects.
What you have learned/gained from being in those involvements and opportunities?
Being exposed to these opportunities has shown me that there is more to college than just education. Education is definitely needed, but being able to apply that knowledge is even more valuable. I gained leadership skills by being in club executive positions. I learned how to manage time and direct members while working, and these are necessary skills that are difficult to learn in a class environment. If there is any opportunity presented to you, run to it as fast as you can.
Your favorite memory here on campus?
My favorite memory is honestly the friends I have made along the way and the journey we experienced together all the way till graduation. You look back and realize how all the late-night study nights, projects, outings, and hangouts were what made you enjoy college even more.
Your advice for prospective students.
My advice is to make use of all the opportunities Wichita State University has to offer! This makes you experience the best college years of your life. Go for that event, try out a research program, run for club president, you never know until you try it. As you go through the years, don't forget one important thing: to always have fun.
Any challenges you faced being an international student, and how you overcame them?
The challenge I faced at the beginning was homesickness. It is exciting to travel and be in a new environment on your own, but you might end up missing your family back home. The way I overcame this was by having a great community of friends, as well as having weekly calls with family. The wonderful thing about Wichita State is that there are so many communities that are caring and will open their arms for anyone.
Your plans after graduation.
My plans after graduation are to work in the aviation industry and maybe do a master's.
One word to describe your time here at Wichita State.
Growth