Missouri State University’s College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS) values the importance of uplifting all students and empowering them to further the boundaries of science.  

A few CNAS international students share some insights about their experience at MSU and educational journeys.  

Success Ekemezie 

Ekemezie is a graduate student in CNAS’ biology department. She is from Nigeria and is pursuing a master’s degree in biology.  She came to MSU in August 2023 after completing her undergraduate degree at the University of Jos in Nigeria.  

Ekemezie hopes to see an increase in club activity for diverse groups. She notes being able to find a place where you feel welcome with like-minded people will allow for big changes to feel a bit easier.  

Her advice to incoming international students is, “Be confident and open. Interact with everyone in the same way.”  

Ekemezie values speaking up. She believes if you feel there is unfair treatment, you should say something because keeping thoughts in your head will not help solve a problem. She plans to continue her education and obtain her PhD in Biology. After completion, she hopes to start a career in higher education.  

“Being a TA (teaching assistant) has shown me that I love teaching,” Ekemezie said. “Imparting knowledge and impacting other students is a rewarding experience.” 

Khalid Hasan 

Hasan is a graduate student from Bangladesh, where he completed his undergraduate degree in computer science. He is working toward a master’s degree in computer science.  

According to Hasan, he has always felt welcomed at MSU.  

“I haven’t felt alienated at all since coming to the university,” Hasan said. “To be honest, I still feel like I’ am home.” 

One thing he would like to see implemented to better support international students is to provide more assistance in learning new technologies that students from other countries may be unfamiliar with.  

“My teachers have been very helpful and have worked to provide support in every way possible,” he said. 

Upon completing his master’s degree, Hasan plans to continue his education and obtain his doctorate. He then wants to start a career in the field of software engineering.  

“My graduate assistantship has helped me realize that I want to work on real world projects,” Hasan said. “I want to advance into research fields to work towards a brighter future.” 

Christine Lotigo 

Lotigo is an undergraduate senior from Uganda. She is studying both community and regional planning and construction management.  

She credits her interest in community and regional planning to Dr. Krista Evans, director of Pplanning and geography at MSU.  

“After taking the first course, I knew this is something I wanted to do,” Lotigo said. “Dr. Evans has helped guide my path and find internships in the field.” 

Lotigo notes her favorite experience has been through the Global Leaders and Mentors. This program helps international students get accustomed to life at MSU and in Springfield.  

“I was able to connect with over 800 international students,” Lotigo said. “It’s memorable to meet people from different parts of the world.”  

Yetimoni Kpeebi 

Kpeebi is a graduate student from Ghana. He is pursuing a master’s degree in community and regional planning. He is also working toward a certificate in planning and development and is a sustainability representative at MSU.  

After obtaining his degree, Kpeebi plans to enroll in a PhD program. His goal is to become a professor in the field of community and regional planning.  

In his free time, Kpeebi likes spending time with other international students from Ghana. His roommate and a few of his neighbors are also from his home country.  

“It’s nice to hang out and cook traditional Ghanaian meals,” Kpeebi said. “We feast, play games, have longs chats and just enjoy time together.”  

He notes  he would love to see a more culturally active community on campus. Having a safe place where you can feel at home and connect with others is something everyone should have.  

When Kpeebi first arrived in Springfield, he thought his experience as a Black student would be difficult. However, his journey has been a smooth transition.  

“My advice to incoming Black students is to come as you are,” Kpeebi said. “Meet with people you can identify with and believe it’s going to be awesome.” 

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