Malcolm's journey began in Silver Spring, a place where his roots were deeply intertwined with the United States. However, fate had a different path in mind for him. At the age of three, his father, driven by his aspirations as a lawyer, made the life-altering decision to return to Rwanda. Malcolm and his mother soon followed suit, bidding farewell to the familiar sights and sounds of their American home.
"I was born in Silver Spring, and it was when I was five years old that I embarked on a new adventure in Rwanda," Malcolm reminisced. "My father had already made the move a year prior, driven by his legal career. My mother and I joined him a year later."
Initially, the transition was a culture shock for young Malcolm. Yet, he quickly adapted to his new surroundings, embracing the vibrant colors and rich traditions of his ancestral homeland. Every aspect of Rwanda fascinated him, from the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine to the rhythmic beats of traditional music. It was as if he had discovered a hidden treasure trove of beauty.
"Since returning to Rwanda, I have felt truly blessed to be in a place where everyone shares my appearance and can relate to me," Malcolm expressed with pride. "Being Rwandan and embracing my culture has played a significant role in shaping who I am today."
As the years passed, Malcolm bid farewell to the land that had become his second home and embarked on a new chapter in the United States. Loyola University Maryland, a prestigious Jesuit institution in Baltimore, became his new haven. However, what truly set Malcolm apart was not just his academic pursuits but his unique perspective as an international student in a predominantly white institution.
"When I first arrived at Loyola, I couldn't help but notice that I was one of the few Rwandans on campus," Malcolm shared. "Besides my cousin and another Rwandan student I met, there were only three of us. This motivated me to join the African Student Association, not only to create a community but also to forge lasting friendships."
His freshman year at Loyola University, as the only Rwandan in most of his classes, he struggled to find a community that he could identify with. As an African American attending a predominantly white institution, he felt like he didn't belong most of the time. However, he didn't let that stop him from seeking out a community that would accept him for who he was. Joining the African Student Association was a turning point for him, as he was able to connect with like-minded individuals who shared his culture and values.
"Finding a community was tough, but when I did, it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I finally felt like I belonged somewhere. The African cultural clubs on campus really helped me express myself as an African, especially as someone who is Rwandan."
He felt a strong motivation to run for the outreach director position for the African Student Association on campus. This decision not only allowed him to strengthen his relationships with other African students, but also gave him the opportunity to proudly represent his country.
"I wanted to be a voice for my country and represent it to the best of my ability. Being a part of the African Student Association has allowed me to connect with other students who share similar experiences and backgrounds. It's been a great opportunity to learn from each other and celebrate our cultures together."
Malcolm's love for Loyola University was not just because of the community he found there, but also because of the family legacy and values that the campus reflected. He had visited Baltimore a few times before, as one of his cousins attended Johns Hopkins University. He knew that Loyola was the right place for him to continue his education and uphold his family's Catholic values.
"Loyola just felt like home to me. It was the perfect place to continue my family legacy and values as a Catholic. When my family and I left campus, we knew that it was the right place for me to further my education."
As an international student, Malcolm faced many challenges, both financially and socially. He wants other foreign students to know that studying abroad comes with its pros and cons, and that understanding these challenges can help alleviate some of the stressors that they might face.
"Being an international student is not easy. It comes with financial burdens that you need to be prepared for. But it's also an opportunity to experience a new culture and broaden your horizons. Understanding the challenges that come with studying abroad can help you better navigate them and make the most of your experience."
Malcom, with a hint of nostalgia in his voice, shares his annual tradition of returning to his homeland, Rwanda, during the cherished Christmas and summer breaks. As he speaks, his eyes glimmer with a mix of joy and longing, for he knows that while he embarks on this journey, his peers will be reveling in the company of their close-knit friends, conveniently residing near the campus. It is during these moments that a pang of melancholy tugs at his heart, making him feel as though he is missing out on the vibrant tapestry of social events.
“ I always go back to Rwanda, every Christmas and summer break. This is very hard especially when you see your friends hanging out with each other, who live close to campus, which makes me sometimes feel like I am missing out.”
However, amidst these bittersweet emotions, Malcom imparts a valuable message to his fellow international students. He encourages them to embrace the challenges that come with being a global scholar, assuring them that it is crucial to approach each hurdle with patience and perseverance. With a gentle yet firm tone, he emphasizes the significance of never losing sight of their purpose for venturing abroad.
"Being an international student can be challenging, but it's important to take things one step at a time," Malcom advises. "Remember why you're here and stay focused on your academic goals."
Reflecting on his journey, Malcolm felt a surge of pride in his heart. He had faced numerous obstacles along the way, but through his own personal growth and transformation, he had managed to overcome them all. Serving as the outreach director, he not only formed strong bonds with his fellow African students but also became a true representation of his beloved homeland, Rwanda.
Author’s note: Kiiza has graciously provided us with a collection of photos and images for our website. These captivating visuals will be organized in an album, allowing our readers to effortlessly scroll through and enjoy them.
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