Introduction

The stories my father told me about his time working in Africa during the Liberian and Sierra Leonean civil wars fascinated me. Looking to learn more, I began reading about the diverse history of the continent. I was particularly interested in the issues of corruption and conflict. I wondered what the factors were that led to the destabilization or successes of certain governments. Often it seemed economic forces, among other things, played a significant role in people’s lives and, in turn, the success of their government. Admittedly, I did not understand yet what exactly these forces were or how they worked. However, knowing their importance, I chose to focus my undergraduate studies in International Food and Resource Economics at the University of Florida.

 

Sahel Research Group

While at UF for my undergrad, I looked for ways to continue to learn more about Africa. Speaking with Dr. Alioune Sow, I was introduced to the Sahel Research Group at UF. During the research group's meetings, I was able to meet and learn from various academics and professionals focused on the West African Sahel. At their seminars, I was able to hear other people’s perspectives on the causes of the recent destabilization of the region. When the research group received a grant from the Department of Defense to research Sahelians’ perspectives on and resilience to climate change, I was able to get a first-hand look at the research process. Helping participate in a review of literature under Dr. Renata Serra, I gained a deeper appreciation of the challenges farmers and herders are facing in the region.

 

USAID and UF/IFAS

During school, I also interned part-time with the USAID/Nigeria Office of Economic Growth and Environment as part of the Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) program. I spent my time reviewing reports from USAID’s implementing partners working on water, sanitation, and hygiene programs. My role was akin to a program analyst. During my time with USAID, I was able to get a better perspective on the international development field. Furthermore, it sparked an interest in the policies surrounding utility companies. To gain more hands-on experience, I pursued an internship with the UF/IFAS Extension. Over the summer, I worked under the agriculture and natural resources Extension agent at Okaloosa County. Along with gaining some more applied knowledge, I was able to improve my skills working with surveys, evaluating programs, and creating impact statements. My experience with the Extension allowed me to see ways the government and universities can support rural communities.

 

Research Interest and Plans for the Future

During my USAID internship, I was able to learn about the efforts in Nigeria to reform inefficient policy and institutions surrounding water and sanitation. The interconnectedness and cyclical nature of various issues is intriguing. As many countries in West Africa are facing a rural exodus, there is an increasing stress on their urban infrastructure which already had deficiencies. The rise in conflict throughout the region further complicates these difficult situations. Through my future education, I hope to learn about how government interventions or reforms can help address such challenges.

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In the end, I am eager to learn about economic policy and government interventions in agriculture and utilities that aim to improve people’s welfare. Whether it is research looking at interventions that address farmers and pastoralists’ livelihoods or instead the provision of necessary services (energy, water, etc.), I would be happy to contribute. I’m expecting to enter a master’s program in food and resource economics at UF where I’ll be able to achieve those goals.

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After I graduate from UF with my master’s degree, I hope to be an agricultural extension volunteer with the Peace Corps in West Africa. All in all, I cherish the experiences I’ve had as part of the International Scholars and Peace Corps Prep program at the University of Florida. I believe it has helped me have a broader worldview and understanding of the challenges people face.

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Thank you.