Submitted Photo Minot State University senior Nengi Divine Daminabo is an international student from Nigeria who came to the state to further her education and find her calling.

Nengi Divine Daminabo, is a Nigerian international student at Minot State University who found that her journey to the United States and to MSU have been nothing short of transformative.

“The allure of America always captivated me,” Daminabo said. “A land of boundless opportunities, depicted as a realm brimming with endless possibilities.”

Before going to America, Daminabo was planning to go to college in Nigeria when her mother proposed an idea that changed everything.

“Before venturing to America, I was diligently crafting my plans back home, making significant strides. However, when my mother proposed the idea of exploring America to see if it aligned with my aspirations, I embraced it as an experiment, eager to see if it could offer what I sought, particularly in the field of computer science, which was my growing interest at the time,” she said.

Daminabo enrolled in Illinois State University for a semester in computer science. Although computer science is a growing job field and can lead to good income, Daminabo realized it did not suit her.

“Initially enrolling at Illinois State University for a semester in computer science, I soon realized it wasn’t my true calling,” she said. “Following my younger sister’s suggestion, I transitioned to Minot State University, immersing myself in the professional communications program — an experience that resonated deeply with me.”

The transition from Illinois State University to Minot State University was a big one but the chance to be a part of smaller classes allowed Daminabo to make connections with both peers and professors.

“The ability to engage in enriching classes and form meaningful connections with professors and mentors who genuinely cared about my growth and provided avenues for external opportunities has been a true blessing, “ she said. “My involvement in various campus jobs and organizations not only served as social anchors but also facilitated my professional growth within the industry.”

Having worked as a social media and marketing assistant, University Communications student writer, Beaver Brigade for MSU football, Student Government Association senator of College of Arts and Sciences, Student Government Association president, as well as being a part of the MSU choir, and currently the Red & Green student newspaper co-editor, and International Student Ambassador, Daminabo has a plethora of work experience and extracurriculars that continue to boost her resume as she looks to continue her education.

“My long-term goals aren’t set in stone, but I love film, cinema and media arts, and would love to work in that field in the future,” Daminabo said. “I do intend to go to grad school up until the Ph.D level. For now, I will take a gap year, which is something I never got to do after high school. I think it’s very much needed because university can be intense and it’s always good to rest a while before starting again. International students are given the option to work for a year or less and that’s what I’m going to do before continuing my education on the master’s level.”

Daminabo will graduate in May with a bachelor of arts in professional communication, with an option in social media, a concentration in media services, a concentration in public relations and a concentration in broadcasting, as well as an English certificate in writing in the disciplines from Minot State. Her educational and personal experiences in the United States and at Minot State University directed, inspired and prepared Daminabo for this next step in her journey.

“Encouraging others to embrace the adventure of navigating life in a foreign land, I emphasize the value of broadening perspectives and gaining insights into diverse national, professional and economic structures,” she said. “My tenure at Minot State University has been a tapestry woven with growth, development, trials, triumphs and a plethora of opportunities – both internal and external.”

Daminabo’s journey not only allowed her to learn and grow at Minot State, but it also gave her a home away from home.

“The city of Minot has become a second home, offering a comforting resemblance to the familiar, especially when miles away from my homeland. Through the ups and downs, the challenges and the victories, my journey at Minot State University has been a solid foundation for personal and professional evolution – one that I wouldn’t trade for anything else.”