When I look back at my journey from high school to studying abroad at Beloit College in the United States, I feel a deep sense of gratitude, and I also think of all the things I wish I had known earlier. Like many young girls in Liberia, I had big dreams but limited resources and information. I didn’t know where to start or who to ask. But I held on to the dream, and today, I want to share what I have learned with girls like you who also hope to study abroad someday.
Believe It’s Possible
First, I would tell my younger self to believe it is possible. Even if no one in your family has ever studied abroad, even if people around you say it is too expensive or too difficult, you must believe in yourself. Confidence is the first step to achieving any dream. I didn’t come from a wealthy background, and I didn’t have everything figured out, but I believed that with hard work and God’s help, I could make it.
Take Your Education Seriously
Next, I would focus on doing well in school. Your grades are important, especially when you are applying to schools abroad. They want to see that you are serious about learning. I would make sure to give my best in every subject, especially English, Math, and Science. Even if school feels hard sometimes, I would remind myself that education is the key that can open doors to the world.
Get Involved in Your Community
If I could do it all over again, I would also try to get involved in things outside of the classroom. I would join school clubs, volunteer in my community, and take part in any leadership opportunities available. These activities help you grow as a person and also make your applications stronger. Colleges abroad don’t just look at grades, they also want to see who you are and how you care about others.
Ask for Help and Guidance
Another thing I would do is ask for help. I used to think I had to do everything by myself, but that’s not true. I got shortlisted for the Ashinaga Africa Initiative scholarship designed for young African students who lost one or both parents. They offered to interview me, and I just went into the interview without seeking guidance from anyone, and I didn’t do well, which resulted in me getting dropped from the program. There are teachers, mentors, older students, and even organizations that are ready to support you. Ask questions. Talk to people who have studied abroad. Tell them about your dream. The more you speak up, the more support you will find.
Search for Scholarships Early
Money is a big concern for many of us in Liberia, so one of the most important things I did was apply for scholarships. I knew my family could not afford the cost of studying abroad, so I searched online, asked my teachers, and applied for every opportunity I found. Before enrolling in the SMART Liberia program, I applied for scholarships in several European countries. Many universities abroad, including Beloit College, offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. You just have to look, apply early, and be honest in your story.
Develop Your Communication Skills
English is the official language of instruction in many countries, so I would spend time improving my English skills. I would read books, watch movies with subtitles, and practice writing as much as I could. You don’t need to speak perfect English, but the more you practice, the better prepared you’ll be. Communication is a powerful tool when you’re in a new country, especially written communication. It helps you express your ideas clearly. One of the most important things I learned is how to tell my story in a way that inspires. I believe that was the main reason I got accepted for many scholarships. Everyone has a story, but how you tell it matters most. When you write your essays or speak in interviews, speak from the heart. Be honest about your journey, your challenges, and your dreams. Your story is enough. You are enough.
Be Open to New Experiences
Studying abroad changed my life. It opened my eyes to new cultures, gave me a chance to grow, and helped me discover who I am. At Beloit College, I met students from all over the world, learned how to live on my own, and got to explore new ideas. But none of this would have happened if I hadn’t believed in myself and taken that first step.
Never Forget Where You Come From
I guess you know that famous South African song: “No matter where you go, remember the road that will lead you home.” No matter where you go, remember your story. Your background is your strength. I carried my values, my culture, and my purpose with me everywhere I went. And it reminded me that I was not just doing this for myself, but to inspire others too. To show the next girl that if I could make it, she can too. Where you come from is not a limitation, it is your foundation. Hold on to it.
To every young girl reading this, know that your dream is valid. It is okay to come from a small village or city. It is okay if you don’t have all the answers yet. Just start. Study hard, ask questions, look for opportunities, and stay true to your dream. The road may be long, but it will be worth it. One day, you will look back and be proud of how far you’ve come.
Your journey can begin today. The world is waiting for you—believe in your dream and go for it.
Author
Martu J. Kollie
Policy Analyst, Alliance for American Leadership
Guest Writer
