‘Uni’ Days

My University Journey: The Choices That Shaped Me

The time had come to make a choice—one that would determine my career and my future: going to university. “Uni” (short for university or college, depending on where you're from) was something I had looked forward to since high school. The thought of freedom, fun, friends, and excitement was all I could think about. I wished those days would come sooner.

At the end of 2018, after completing my gap year—an incredible experience—I discovered my love and passion for people. The injustices I saw and the stories I heard from different individuals across the countries I visited sparked a deep compassion within me, one I couldn't shake.

Determined to make a difference, I applied to Northrise University in Ndola, Zambia—a biblically oriented institution—to pursue a Bachelor of Laws degree. In February 2019, I stepped into my first semester, filled with a mix of drive, expectation, and excitement.

I still remember my first day at orientation—freshman students all around me, some holding back in shyness while others confidently embraced the moment. I wanted to be right in the middle—poised yet confident, carrying myself with the self-assurance I was raised with.

Finding My People

University introduced me to some of the most incredible friendships. There were people with whom I shared crazy, laughter-filled, and even heartbreaking moments. Some friendships I thought would last a lifetime faded away, while others—surprisingly, even with those I initially didn’t get along with—grew into unbreakable bonds.

Living in the boarding house (apartment) with other students reminded me of high school, but with more freedom, which I absolutely loved. I also joined the worship team, singing in the choir and performing at least twice a week during services and chapel. This deepened my love for music, as I was constantly surrounded by others who were just as passionate about the arts.

Academics & Challenges

Academics were a new kind of challenge. In high school, I wasn’t necessarily at the top of my class, but I wasn’t at the bottom either—I did well. However, university humbled me. I had to adjust my learning approach and work harder than I ever had before.

A funny (but not-so-proud) moment looking back now—I failed Algebra twice. I’ve never been great at math, so this was a tough hurdle to overcome. But I pushed through, and in the end, it became one of those challenges that helped me grow.

Struggles & Self-Discovery

I didn’t always make the best or smartest decisions—some who know me personally can vouch for that! (Maybe I’ll do a storytime on my podcast!

I struggled with the balance between my spiritual walk with God and the pressures of fitting in—wanting to be cool, popular, and accepted. This led me into moments of feeling lost, unsure of who I was, and questioning the principles I had grown up with.

A Life-Changing Decision

Fast forward to 2021, the beginning of my third year at university. A life-changing opportunity presented itself—one I had dreamed of for years: the chance to move to the United States to reunite with my mom and family.

But this decision came at a cost. I had to cut my studies short, leaving behind my law degree, home, friends, and everything familiar to start over in a completely different country and continent.

It was a bittersweet moment—one that forced me to choose between two dreams: the career I was working hard to build and the long-awaited chance to be with my mother. Ultimately, I chose family.

The Journey Continues…

Thank you for reading! I love reflecting on the moments that shaped me, and I hope you enjoy them as I share my journey with you.

I can't wait to dive into my next blog post: "Coming to America."

With love,
Tina