Written by Michelle Adhiambo, HHFL Post Sec
“They succeed because they know they can” are wise words by Virgil that have kept me going. I say that success is not what keeps me going but rather the steps that I take that draw me to success itself. I was privileged to join the great Moi University in August this year to study Computer Science! This was after the colourful grades I got last year when I graduated from high school, a mean of A-! Even though I had so badly wanted to come with a clean A, it was a satisfying reward for the 4yrs of hardwork at Starehe Girls Centre.
My first days at campus I felt something in between fear and happiness. Fear because I didn’t know what was in store for me yet happy that admission to the University was a great milestone for me. I would frequently ask whether I would really go to campus, with all the school fees and requirements. The answer would always be, “Just get good grades and everything will fall into place”. And here I am!
I’d say my first day on campus wasn’t fun. I felt lonely, being somewhere for the first time and you know nobody. Navigating my life through campus has not been easy, it has been God all through. The little time I have spent in the school, I have learnt a lot. I have met people from all walks of life, people with very different characters. I have sensed a lot of peer pressure in campus which I’d say is the negative type. I have seen people deal with stress due to one reason or another. I feel like campuses should incorporate our parents more to also expose them to the learning environment of students. Life in campus is not easy at all and it requires one to have a strong support system either from your parents or guardian. At some point I also lost it but thanks to my supportive roommates, I overcame it.
With all that I have seen, I realized that education is the greatest equalizer. Education gives each of us equal opportunities, regardless of our background. School provides an environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. Moreover, it acts as a stepping stone for individuals to shape their future, as it offers the necessary tools and resources for personal growth and development. I wholeheartedly believe that school is the best place to be, as it offers individuals a chance to break free from their circumstances and achieve their full potential. Whether it is acquiring new skills, building relationships, or exploring one’s interests, school provides the foundation for a bright future.
Why I chose to pursue Computer Science is because it has become a rapidly evolving field with limitless opportunities for innovation and progress.I have a strong desire to pursue a degree in this field. I am driven by a passion for developing new and effective ways of recycling waste from technology devices. The growing problem of electronic waste pollution and its impact on the environment has fueled my interest in this area. As a woman in a male-dominated field, I am inspired to break down the stereotypes and show that anyone can succeed in STEM. I believe that my presence in this field will help to inspire other girls and young women to pursue their passions and reach their full potential. “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” -Alan Kay.
I am grateful to all the donors that continue to ensure that I study in the best schools with quality education. May you be blessed abundantly. I strongly believe that someday I will be a living testimony of resilience, perseverance and faith. I cannot wait to experience the remaining years in Moi!
