Yardie in New York City

By: Renelle Sandiford

Raheema Morris, St. Francis College (SFC) graduate and current post-graduate student at Seton Hall University, came to New York City in the Fall of 2018 with hopes of attaining an undergraduate degree. Although her journey has not been seamless, she has been able to persevere in the face of adversity. 

Being a first-generation college student, Raheema made the decision to leave her birthplace, Jamaica, to migrate to the United States in hopes of securing better work opportunities. To accomplish this, she believed pursuing higher education was her best bet. She chose St. Francis College because they were the only college in the state that she could find that did not require SAT results for enrollment, and they even offered her a scholarship. They were willing to take a chance on her, so she was willing to take a chance on them.

When asked about her favorite part of being an international student in New York, Raheema said, “I get to immerse myself in such a diverse environment with people from all walks of life.” For leisure, she enjoys shopping, discovering new restaurants and finding unique activities to partake in.

However, when questioned about the most difficult aspects of her experience, she explained that she feels homesick quite often. Since her residency in the U.S began, she has only been back home once. She also went on to describe the hardships associated with navigating the working world as a student with an F-1 VISA status. 

Despite the obstacles that she faces, she has not abandoned her aspirations. Instead, she exerts extra effort to get good grades, to get placed in leadership roles, to gain experience that will set her apart, to network, and to apply to jobs. With a BSc in Business Administration already attained, internships completed that have equipped her with adequate working experience, and the current pursuit of a MSc in Business Analytics, she is making her dreams a reality.

Although the experience as an international student can be lonely at times, Raheema was able to find solace in supportive communities at SFC. She said, “In my second year at SFC I was introduced to the Caribbean Students Association (CSA), the Black Students Union (BSU), and also met a few mentors throughout my years of college.” She credits the CSA and the BSU for connecting her with other students on campus – who share similar experiences – and mentors that have guided her decision- making with regards to her career. 

Ultimately, being an international student in “the Big Apple” is a complex experience, where the only thing that seems certain, is uncertainty. However, the experience can be made better if you’re dedicated to your goals, work hard, appreciate the good things the city has to offer and surround yourself with supportive communities.