For Damilola Elizabeth Fadipe, the decision to come to America from Nigeria was not easy. But a year of studying at the U of A has convinced her it was the right decision.

"It has been an amazing first year at the University of Arkansas," she said. "The U of A has so many amazing resources that I was so happy when I discovered them in my first year. From the copious number of resources in the University Libraries, to the programs that the International Students and Scholars Office creates for international students, the university has set me up for success."

Fadipe is studying chemical engineering in its Ph.D. program, where she hopes to leverage the expertise she learns through her degree to provide innovations and solutions to the manufacturing industries. Specifically, she hopes to work in the design of functional materials using soft matter with numerous applications for process development, environmental remediation and health applications.

"The coursework, hands-on research projects and teaching assistant duties have contributed to my academic growth," she said. "The university has given me the opportunity to work with great professors, including my adviser, who are always willing to share knowledge and provide invaluable guidance and help me find the right resources for my career development. Having the opportunity to also attend conventions, career fairs and partaking in the Chemical Engineering Mentoring Program has helped provide some real-world application of my academic knowledge."

As a student arriving in a new country, Fadipe found friends in her colleagues, lab mates, African church members and an American family she was paired with through the iFriend program. She's also become involved in clubs and organizations on campus including the American Red Cross, Society of Women Engineers, the National Society of Black Engineers and Graduate Professional Student Congress.

"These opportunities have allowed me to meet people, make friends and feel a part of the university community," she said. "I have also been able to take leadership roles and made meaningful contributions to some of these groups, which has positively impacted my personal development. I've had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students on initiatives aimed at enhancing their studies on campus."

"The university's dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse community has made a profound impact on me," she added. "The U of A is so diversified. I can't believe how many people from different countries I have spoken with in a year."

Fadipe has already gotten off to a strong start in her second year of studying beginning this fall, as she has begun working on publishing one of her research projects and starting new research on virus filtration.

"Looking ahead to my future, I believe that the sense of belonging and community I've found at the U of A has provided a solid foundation for my personal, professional growth and well-being," she said. "It has taught me the importance of collaboration, appreciation and the power of community support, which I intend to carry with me into my career and further on in life."