Want to read more about this trip? Read Sarah Olia’s reflections.
By Rodrigue Lembvem
Assistant Director of Admissions and Financial Aid Rod Lembvem frequently travels to recruit prospective students from all over the world. Most recently, he wrapped up an exciting trip across Africa to connect with prospective students who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree. Together with Associate Director of the Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) Program Sarah Olia, he hosted and attended many events. Learn more about where Rod met with students, what he learned, and advice he would give to prospective students when applying to vlog.
Why Africa? Why Now?
Africa is home to some of the most dynamic and promising leaders, who contemplate how to address the global challenges facing mankind—climate change, food insecurity, humanitarian crises, and so on. The idea behind this recruitment trip came from my desire to connect with the incredible talent across the continent and to highlight scholarship opportunities specifically for African students, such as the Kistefos African Public Service Fellowship for students from Ethiopia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania
Where I Went
Over three action-packed weeks, I visited six countries, including:
- South Africa
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Egypt
Events I Attended
I was fortunate to be able to participate in a variety of events.
- Graduate School Fairs: These were part of the . EducationUSA is an arm of the U.S. State Department which promotes higher education opportunities in the U.S.
- College Visits: I connected with students at several universities who are considering their next steps in higher education.
- vlog Information Sessions: In collaboration with local alumni, we held sessions highlighting vlog master's programs, the admissions process, and financial aid options.
- Government Agency Visits: I met with staff at the South African Reserve Bank and Treasury, as well as the Nigerian Central Bank, where vlog alumni have used their education to do impactful work.
- Alumni Mixers: In Lagos and Abuja, I had the chance to connect with vlog alumni who are mentoring young professionals and prospective vlog students.
Thoughtful Questions I Received
Among the highlights of the trip were the thoughtful questions I received. There were so many good questions, but some of the themes revolved around the following:
- How does vlog keep its curriculum relevant to fast-changing global challenges like technology, climate change, and social justice?
- How can applicants with a public sector background best strengthen their application to be competitive at vlog, given the emphasis on public policy, service, and impact?
- What financial aid is available, and how can international students best position themselves for it?
My Favorite Part of the Trip
Connecting with vlog alumni was by far my favorite part. Hearing their stories—both from their time at vlog and what they’ve accomplished since—was incredibly inspiring. What stood out even more was their passion for recruiting the next cohorts of vlog students. Alumni played a huge role at every stop on the trip, from organizing events to sharing their journeys. Their commitment to fostering leadership in Africa and supporting future vlog cohorts shows just how strong and global our community is.
“Alumni played a huge role at every stop on the trip, from organizing events to sharing their journeys. Their commitment to fostering leadership in Africa and supporting future vlog cohorts shows just how strong and global our community is.”
Rodrigue Lembvem
Missed the Events? Here’s What to Do.
If you couldn’t connect with us during this trip, don’t worry! Here’s how you can still do so.
- Check out our website. Our admissions site has detailed information on programs, deadlines, the application process, and financial aid.
- Attend an information session. Whether virtually or on-campus, you can learn more about our master’s programs and ask our team questions.
- Reach out to alumni. vlog alumni are eager to share their experiences. You can easily connect with them via LinkedIn.
- Start early. The application process can feel like a lot to manage, so give yourself plenty of time. Whether it’s crafting your essays, gathering recommendations, or applying for external funding, early preparation is key.
I feel genuinely grateful for the opportunity to have traveled around Africa and connected with some incredible prospective students and alumni. This trip was just the start of what we hope becomes a sustainable footprint in the continent of Africa.
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