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Yesterday, as I was working on my desktop, I was concurrently listening to youtube videos interviewing Zimbabwean graduate students from the class of 2021. I had looked forward to listening to these interviews because  I was curious to know what where some reflections students like me had from their college experience

One student noted that one of the most important things they learned from college was how important nurturing relationships is especially at this stage in life where you get to meet people from all kinds of backgrounds that can serve as connections for life. Most things in life are backed up by real relationships. The other relationship aspect also came out in another students’ interview who noted that he has learned to seek to know people, what they value, what makes them tick etc which helps him to maintain strong relationships.

Additionally, another girl talked about the importance of being intentional with whatever you do in life. It’s very important to ask yourself why you do the things you do. It can keep you back on track on your purpose and what you should be focusing on. This becomes very important especially during college where paths to follow are countless but you’ve to know which ones really support the person you are.

A girl who graduated from Smith also talked about the importance of self-care. Growing up in Zimbabwe where the lifestyle can tend to be performance-based and young people can often forget to look after themselves. This reminded me of a part in the book, 7 habits of highly effective people, where the author uses the analogy of a goose and that lays golden eggs. To keep on getting the golden eggs one has to take care of the goose. Yet, one can be so focused on the golden eggs that you forget that the most important source is the goose.

Mentorship was a very common highlight that came up during these students’ interviews. A lot of them have peers, career advanced figures that have been there for them to give direction in life. Their mentors were from all different walks of life from spiritual; figures to career gurus. College can exert a lot of pressure on students and it has proven effective to have people who can support you and cheer you onto your goals

I must say, I was very inspired by all these reflections from Zimbabwean graduates. These students maintained a hard work ethic in a foreign nation and endured all the pressures of being an international student. On top of that, they were exceptional and are set onto successful career paths with fortune 500 companies.(What can be more impressive than that!)

Highly recommend you check out the youtube channel. Great opportunity to hear more about Zimbabwean stories in the diaspora