Jackie Otieno and I went to the same high school, and this is where our friendship began. Little did we know that 20 years later, we would be in the USA pursuing our dreams.

Jackie played a key role in my journey to graduate school in the U.S. Initially, I was focused on finding scholarships, believing that was my best option for funding. However, Jackie introduced me to the U.S. graduate school funding model, shifting my perspective entirely. She highlighted the importance of assistantships, research funding, and other institutional opportunities that I hadn’t considered before. This insight was a turning point, as it helped me understand what I needed to do in terms of applications rather than just searching for scholarships.

From the moment she shared this knowledge, Jackie became an invaluable resource. She provided clear guidance on the application process, helping me navigate complex requirements and refine my documents. She patiently answered my questions, ensuring that I approached my applications strategically. Her encouragement and expertise made what initially felt like an overwhelming process much more manageable.

Thanks to her advice, I successfully secured a funded graduate position. Without her insight, I might have continued down the path of scholarship hunting without realizing the broader funding opportunities available.

What stood out most about Jackie was her generosity in sharing knowledge. She didn’t just provide information, she genuinely cared about my success and took the time to ensure I was well-prepared.

I admire Jackie’s knowledge in navigating graduate school, her patience, and willingness to support others make her an exceptional mentor. I am incredibly grateful for her guidance, which played a crucial role in shaping my academic journey.

Spring orientation for international students occurred virtually while I was still back in my home country. I picked up my travel documents on the 7th and was scheduled to travel on the 10th. By the time I was traveling, I had not secured a place to live, which made me anxious about starting life in a foreign country without someone to guide me. I was going to a place where I knew no one, and my travel documents and arrangements were finalized very late.

I chose to reach out to Jackie because she was the only person who could understand my situation and provide the necessary guidance and individual orientation during this challenging time. Being a Kenyan and one of the facilitators at the International Student Orientation event, I believed Jackie was in the best position to assist me with settling in.

My experience working with Jackie has been amazing. I appreciate every interaction we've had since then, and thanks to our working relationship, I settled down comfortably. Jackie provided directions on where to find the necessary support and services within the campus, explicitly guiding me to the various departments and sharing web links that address different issues and processes for international students.

Overall, I can say that the communication and support throughout this process were smooth, timely, and effective. I never encountered a situation where I couldn't find a solution to the guidance I sought from Jackie. As an international student, this service helped me settle in and begin my studies with far fewer challenges than I had feared. It was especially important to me because I couldn't imagine starting my life as an international student without the assistance I received.. I believe these services are crucial and relevant for other international students who likely share similar worries to those I had. Therefore, I would always recommend that such services remain available to anyone in need. For any other international student who might have concerns about settling in a foreign land, I assure you that this is a service you will not regret choosing. I am confident that you will share positive experiences with others.

Jackie, your work is an act of kindness and a service to others. Keep doing what you’re doing; I’m sure God’s blessings will come your way

Moving to the U.S. as an international student was overwhelming. Navigating a new cultural environment, adjusting to the academic system, and understanding social dynamics felt like a constant struggle. Everything was completely different from what I was used to, and there were times when I felt uncertain about how to adapt.

I met Jackie in class. Although we are both studying Psychology, we specialize in different areas (I’m in Clinical Psychology, while she focuses on Health Psychology). From our very first conversation, I felt a sense of relief. Jackie was warm and encouraging, making everything feel more manageable. Over time, whenever I felt overwhelmed, I turned to her for guidance and support. She didn’t just listen; she understood me. Jackie made my journey easier, and she always knew how to boost my confidence. I often joke that she is my personal therapist!

Working with Jackie has been an incredible experience. She is compassionate and deeply empathetic, always seeming to know when something is wrong. She checks in on me regularly, never hesitating to offer support when I need it. Whether I am panicking over a test or feeling discouraged by a negative comment, she has a unique way of calming me down and helping me regain perspective. Jackie doesn’t just offer advice—she listens, reassures, and makes me feel valued.

Jackie’s support has been life-changing. She has helped me build self-confidence, given me a sense of hope, and made me feel like I belong. Her encouragement has shaped the way I see myself and my journey as an international student.

What truly sets Jackie apart is her unwavering commitment. Even after improvements, she continues to check in, ensuring that I am still doing well. Her kindness and dedication go beyond surface-level support; she genuinely cares. Anyone working with Jackie—whether as a friend, mentor, or professional—is in the best possible hands.

Having Jackie in any capacity is a true blessing. She has been a guiding light in my journey, and I know she will be the same for many others.