I had no idea just how much my Ball State journey would change me. When I stepped on campus after a 13-hour flight from Nigeria, everything felt different—the weather, the way classes worked, even how students interacted with professors. It was a lot to take in. But through my love of storytelling, I quickly found my place at Ball State.

One of the most defining experiences of my time here has been leading a film discussion on Nollywood, Nigeria’s thriving film industry—arguably one of the largest in the world. I got to introduce people to Nollywood’s unique storytelling and cultural impact, and it showed me how film can connect different cultures. It also pushed me out of my comfort zone, giving me the opportunity to lead academic discussions and share my perspective.

The support I’ve received from faculty has been incredible. Dr. Kevin Moloney has been more than just a professor—he’s been a mentor who genuinely cares about my growth. Professors Rob Brookey, Michael Lee, Betsy Pike, and my Pathway Program mentor, Professor Robin Blom, have all guided my research and given me thoughtful feedback. Their encouragement has made a real difference in my experience at Ball State.

Adjusting to life in the U.S. has definitely come with surprises—like people wearing shorts in freezing weather! But what truly shocked me was how informal student-professor interactions are here. In Nigeria, we always use titles, so it felt strange to hear students call professors by their first names. Now, I appreciate the open communication and how accessible my professors are.

Looking ahead, I see two possible paths: pursuing a career in digital marketing and communications, or earning a Ph.D. to study how misinformation spreads in digital media. No matter which direction I choose, I know my time at Ball State has given me the confidence and skills to make a lasting impact.