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| hope college > admissions > international students |
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What Students Say Fatu Kamara  Fatu
Kamara has come to know Hope College as family.Drawn by the college's Christian perspective and friendly atmosphere, she is spending her time at Hope dedicated to an opportunity to further her education. Five years ago, she noted, such an opportunity wouldn't have been possible. "I grew up in Liberia, in West Africa, and lived in a war zone from the time I was 10 to 17," she said. "I know what it's like to be poor, to go to bed without food. But it has taught me to survive all situations that come my way, and to make family wherever I go." Kamara is majoring in English and political science, and hopes to work with Third World countries some day after graduate school. For the time being, she has immersed herself in academics and extracurricular activities. "This year I'm dance chair of SAC (Social Activities Committee). We've worked hard on the Homecoming Ball, the Halloween Party, and now Winter Fantasia," she said. "It's fun just getting opinions from students at the dinner table. It's a better way to serve Hope students when you know if they like this or that." Kamara is also the residential assistant of the first floor in Scott Hall, a position that keeps her occupied even when she least expects it. "Sometimes I'll have a conversation in the middle of the night with someone who needs me. Those are the times I truly value even if it might hinder my schoolwork," she said. "I get to know people on a one-to-one basis. I think the best part of being a RA is the talking and the honesty and open-mindedness that is expressed." Many experiences with her professors and advisers have also taken on characteristics of open communication. "I've found a lot of adults here that I can really connect with," she said. "And my professors have been true mentors. They're willing to support me if I need help in a subject, but they're also interested in being a part of my life. I can easily confide in them." In light of the hardship in her homeland, Kamara knew that education was an opportunity, but until she arrived at Hope she hadn't realized just how meaningful the experience could be. She notes that her participation in the many facets of Hope College life, from being an RA to a member of Gospel Choir, has truly amplified her education. "Wherever I go on Hope's campus, I make family," she said. "I didn't expect to find a place where I belonged."
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