GAIN Alumni Spotlight Series: Chukwuemeka Ohajionu
Step into the spotlight with us as we launch our GAIN Alumni Spotlight Series. In this collection of engaging interviews, our esteemed alumni generously share their GAIN experiences, graduate school adventures, captivating research interests, and a glimpse into what excites them the most.
To kick off this enlightening journey, let us introduce you to Chukwuemeka Ohajionu, a remarkable PhD candidate in political science at the University of Texas at Austin.
PhD scholar and GAIN alumnus Chukwuemeka Ohajionu at the Austin campus of the University of Texas
GAIN Alumnus: Chukwuemeka Ohajionu
Hello there! I am Chukwuemeka Ohajionu, hailing from Nigeria and currently a doctoral student at the Department of Government, College of Liberal Arts, University of Texas at Austin. I hold both my master’s and bachelor’s degrees in political science from the University of Ibadan and Anambra State University, respectively. My PhD research spans a blend of topics including International Development, Internal Displacement, Insurgency and Counterinsurgency, Humanitarian Activity, and the significant role of Faith-Based Organizations. Aside from my academic pursuit, I find joy in exploring new destinations, meeting new people, and reading.
Why pursue graduate studies abroad?
My decision to embark on graduate studies abroad was driven by several factors. Firstly, I recognized the need for rigorous, objective, and scientific research to address Nigeria’s socioeconomic and political challenges as a nation-state which inspired me to hone my research skills, particularly in empirical research that can make a significant impact on society. To achieve this goal, I understood that I needed to have the requisite knowledge of rigorous scientific research, which is dispassionate and speaks to the available data on the societal challenges in the country, and studying abroad was the ideal way to do so.
Moreover, the research I intended to undertake aligned seamlessly with the expertise of the research faculty at the University of Texas at Austin. Joining the department offered me a unique opportunity to leverage available data and collaborate with scholars whose works are related and essential to my research.
Lastly, the support and resources available to graduate students abroad were a major incentive. These included healthcare benefits, access to a wide range of academic materials, and opportunities to present research at seminars and professional associations. These factors collectively convinced me that graduate studies abroad were the right path for me.
Were there any challenges you encountered while planning to study abroad?
Source: University of Texas at Austin entrance sign photographed by Nick Amoscato. Linked here.
Yes, the journey was not without its share of challenges. Firstly, I was faced with a lack of comprehensive information. I needed a lot of information on graduate studies abroad, but it was difficult to find a guide. The little information I found online left me feeling uncertain and overwhelmed. Additionally, I hesitated to reach out to foreign faculty members, fearing that my inquiries might be misunderstood. However, as I gained better insights and information, I started contacting faculties and graduate coordinators abroad, explaining my aspirations to study in their schools and my research interests.
How did you learn about GAIN?
My introduction to GAIN was through Professor Remi Aiyede at the University of Ibadan, who shared a link to the organization in a graduate WhatsApp Group and encouraged us to apply. At first, I was reluctant, but as I delved deeper, I realized that GAIN was dedicated to assisting aspiring African scholars in pursuing graduate studies abroad. I followed up on their registration requirements and joined the program. Afterwards, GAIN became the push I needed for my graduate studies abroad. This was because of the rich and insightful webinars on the step-by-step process of applying for graduate studies. The willingness to assist financially with the GRE, applications and other issues that may pose obstacles to prospective GAIN mentees. At this juncture, I was determined to follow the webinars by participating in the GAIN webinar series. My joy was unexplainable when I was selected for the mentee phase. Sincerely, GAIN opened my mind to an array of relevant information on graduate studies applications.
How did GAIN contribute to achieving your dream?
GAIN's support is structured in two phases, and I had the privilege of experiencing both. The first stage is the webinar stage where GAIN unpacks all relevant information about the graduate school application process. A mix of speakers drawn from academia, and other standardized test organizations were invited to the webinars to ensure that applicants get first-hand information.
Source linked here.
The second phase, the mentoring program, was truly exceptional. In this phase, selected participants (mentees) are assigned individual mentors to guide and work with through the application process. In my case, Professor Katharine Baldwin from Yale University's Department of Political Science was assigned as my mentor. She was very resourceful and understanding with me. She offered objective advice on my application process, reviewed my application materials, gave quality suggestions on improving my applications and directed me to additional resources that are immensely helpful. Her guidance was invaluable. I am truly grateful that I was paired with her.
Beyond the mentorship, GAIN also provides financial assistance related to the application process. They made resources available for mentees such as test preparation materials, lists of programs and their requirements, and more. GAIN also held regular Zoom sessions with mentees to know how the application process is progressing. I seize this opportunity to appreciate Konstantin Poensgen and his incredible team for having been the face of GAIN for the mentees through Zoom calls and always willing and ready to help with questions relating to the application process. Our monthly mentee survey was fun and informative because Konstantin would always remind us of the importance of the GAIN monthly survey questions. This is different from the reminder that comes from GAIN to the mentees.
I owe my journey to graduate school in the US primarily to the invaluable support provided by GAIN. Without their assistance, I highly doubt I would be able to make it here. GAIN not only covered the expenses I could not afford, but they also played a pivotal role in making my dream a reality.
Any concluding thoughts?
In retrospect, I see myself as a GAIN ambassador at the University of Texas at Austin. They played a crucial role in my journey, offering mentorship, financial assistance, and unwavering support. GAIN has not only helped me achieve my dreams but also restored my self-confidence. I am immensely grateful to GAIN for opening doors and making it possible for me to reach out to several schools during my graduate studies abroad application journey.
Thank you, GAIN, for being a beacon of hope and support for aspiring African scholars like me, helping us turn our dreams into reality. GAIN was indeed my "Gain," and I will forever be indebted to this remarkable organization.