New Year, New Beginnings
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The instant I open the email from their Graduate Admissions Office with the subject line “Admission Decision Available,” my heart skips a beat. Clicking to open it, my fingers tremble with a slight quiver. As the words on my screen come into focus, I hold my breath.
Congratulations! We are delighted to inform you of your acceptance into the esteemed Master’s program in Computer Science at Charleston College for the upcoming academic year.
I exhale a breath through my mouth, reading the message again to be sure it’s real.
I’m going to Charleston College for my Master’s!
Mama Gee, your baby’s stepping into one of the oldest English-speaking universities in the world!
I know… I know I shouldn’t be surprised, but the statistics say less than 35% get accepted.
I’m stunned.
Overwhelmed.
But there’s more. I widen my eyes as I read on:
We understand the financial challenges that often accompany higher education pursuits. As such, Charleston College remains dedicated to ensuring that deserving individuals, like yourself, have the support and resources necessary to excel in their chosen academic endeavors.
Financial aid!
Financial aid!
I have to reread the words a few times to grasp their significance.
What?
I do the math and numbers, mumbling beneath my breath. It’s a partial scholarship, which will significantly ease the financial burden of pursuing my Master’s degree abroad.
Are you kidding—Oh my God! God! Thank you! Thank you!
Jumping from my seat, I do a little victory dance, letting out an exuberant laugh. Relief, excitement, and a deep sense of achievement flows through me.
So, this is happening.
Wow! I never thought…
Wow. How do I…
Weakened at the knees, I sink onto the floor, leaning on the nearest surface, my chair and begin thanking God. The journey here has been a rollercoaster, but moments like this make it all worthwhile.
Mama Gee, daddy, G-Ben, Special... their concern, support, and those countless moments of preparation—it has all led to this moment.
Tears gloss my eyes as I reminisce about that evening when I gathered the courage to share my new plans with G-Ben and the folks in the living room—Mama Gee and daddy; the twins had gone to bed.
It had been nerve-wracking, and their reactions are etched into my memory.
Announcing my desire to pursue a Master’s degree abroad, I could see the surprise and worry in their eyes. G-Ben, always protective, was the first to voice what everyone was thinking.
“Fifi, studying abroad sounds amazing, but have you thought about the funding?” His worry lines were etched deeply as he continued, “It’s not a small thing, you know.”
“I’ve been researching scholarships and financial aid options. There are opportunities out there, and I’m applying for them. It’s challenging, but I believe I can do it.”
Mama Gee and daddy exchanged glances, and Mama Gee’s gaze softened. “We want the best for you, Fifi. But we need to make sure it’s a well-thought-out decision. Education is crucial, but we’re unsure how much we can support you. Why don’t you start the masters in a University here first—”
“Mummy, I’m still applying for jobs so I can save. And my Bachelor’s is already paving the way for international schools,” I said with more force than intended. I hate I took that tone with her, but I needed to say my piece.
“Hmm.” She sighed, legs twitching. “Ade, tell your daughter studying abroad isn’t like moving from Lagos to Akure.”
I knew she meant well, but at that moment, I didn’t want that.
“If that’s what she wants, then let her do it.”
“But—” Mama Gee paused when she noticed the determined look in daddy’s eyes.
G-Ben, always the one to lighten the mood, chimed in with a grin. “And what about Special? He must be over the moon about you studying abroad.”
I chuckled, realizing G-Ben couldn’t resist teasing about our relationship. “Well, you know Special. He’s excited for me but also the voice of reason, making sure I’ve thought everything through.”
G-Ben raised an eyebrow teasingly. “Voice of reason or just missing you already?”
I rolled my eyes, playfully swatting his arm. “Come on, Gee. We’re both focused on our paths right now. Besides, I might not end up in the UK; it might be Dublin.”
Their concern gradually transformed into curiosity.
“Dublin?” daddy asked.
I nodded, a smile tugging at my lips. “Yes, it’s a different experience, and the programs the schools offer aligns perfectly with my aspirations. The opportunities are promising, and I’m ready for this new chapter.”
They exchanged looks again, but this time, they seemed dubious.
Did they assume I was doing this just because of Special?
Yes, he inspired me to follow this path, but now it’s my choice.
The following night, Mama Gee and daddy called me to their room to reveal that Mama Gee invested some money for each of her children back when daddy was an investment banker. And that I could use those funds for my education if I wanted.
That was weeks ago.
Seeing the plans materialize is surreal.
With a grateful smile, still brimming with excitement, I close my laptop and take a seat in my chair. Every good thing will come at its own time. It’s not just the admission, scholarship and financial support for Mama Gee that has me feeling blessed and favored. What’s even better? I just received my Nigerian passport.
Still reeling from the news, I reach for my phone and dial Special’s number. The screen comes to life, and his familiar face fills the frame. My nerves immediately ease at his warm smile.
“Fifi baby! How’s everything?”
“Hey!” I respond, “I’ve got incredible news.”
“Oh, do tell,” he replies, his curiosity is clear in the way he raises his eyebrows.
“I got accepted into Charleston College for the Master’s program in Computer Science,” I blurt out, the words rushing out in a wave of exhilaration.
There’s a brief pause as Special’s expression transforms from curiosity to pure joy. His happiness radiates, and a wide grin spreads across his face. “That’s amazing! I knew you could do it!”
“And there’s more,” I continue, my words tumbling out in a rush. “I’ve also been awarded financial aid. Can you believe it?”
Special mirrors my joy. His eyes sparkle, and he lets out a triumphant cheer. “That’s incredible news, Fifi! I’m so proud of you. This is a huge step to our dreams.”
“Thank you, SP. Thank you.” I say, my heart swelling with gratitude. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
“Of course, baby. I’m your number one cheerleader,” he assures me, his gaze steady and reassuring.
After sharing the excitement and exchanging a few more words, we end the video call, both of us beaming with happiness.
But there’s another call I need to make. Before I place it, I open my email app, take a screenshot and share the news with Special, G-Ben, and the family group. Then, I navigate to Linda’s contact and initiate a video call. After a few rings, Linda’s face pops up, her smile infectious.
“Hey, girl! What’s up?” Linda’s cheerful voice greets me. Lucky her, she finally got a job in Abuja and is relocating soon.
“You won’t believe what just happened,” I begin, my excitement bubbling over in my words. “I got accepted into Charleston College for my Master’s, and they’re offering financial aid!”
Linda’s reaction is immediate and electric. Her eyes widen, and a delighted gasp escapes her lips. “Fii, that’s incredible! I’m so proud of you. You’ve worked so hard for this.”
“Oh God, I can’t believe it,” I confess.
“You better,” she threatens playfully. “What kind of talk is that?”
“I didn’t expect it. Really, I didn’t.”
“Girlfriend, you deserve every bit of this. Your dedication and perseverance are paying off.”
“Thank you. Thanks for everything.”
“Always, Fii. It is your turn to shine and I’m excited to see you shine,” Linda says, her eyes reflecting the depth of our bond. “Hey! My friend is going to jand,” she exclaims, then quickly looks around. It’s then I realize she’s walking down the street.
When our eyes meet, we both chuckle.
We exchange quick pleasantries and then bid our farewells. Done with my calls, I’m left with a heart full of warmth and a profound sense of accomplishment. The faces of my loved ones, the support of Special, Linda, and my family—they’ve all been part of this journey. With Charleston College’s offer and financial aid, a new chapter is unfolding—one I’m eager to embrace.
It’s time to make a global move!
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