We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bernadine Allala a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Bernadine , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
The deep belief that I am made for more and that there is a destiny to be fulfilled keeps me going. It gives me the strength to rise when I fall and to wipe my tears quickly so I can see clearly the road ahead. I am resilient because I know this journey isn’t just about me—it’s about restoring a family and a generation. For that reason, staying defeated is never an option.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
From Uncertainty to Purpose: The Journey of a Ghanaian Scholar in the U.S.
When I left Ghana for the United States in 2019, I had no idea my life was about to change so profoundly. I had been admitted to a master’s program in College Student Affairs Administration—a field I didn’t even know existed at the time. I accepted the offer mainly because it was the only program that came with funding. It wasn’t until the day before my U.S. embassy interview that I sat down to read everything I could about it.
When I arrived in the U.S., I quickly realized I was the only person in my class who was completely new to the field. For a while, I felt lost—like a stranger walking through unfamiliar territory. But instead of giving up, I decided to explore. I began interning with different departments on campus, working directly with students. I helped freshmen—both local and international—adjust to college life, taught English to non-native speakers, and even led the formation of a new student organization. Somewhere along that journey, I started to find my path and purpose in higher education.
Since then, I’ve worked across several departments on university campuses, helping students experience college as more than just academics. For me, it’s about nurturing students holistically—helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered.
But my journey hasn’t been without its struggles. After earning my master’s, life hit hard. My visa expired, I lost my job, and at one point, I came dangerously close to losing my immigration status. To make things worse, I faced five Ph.D. rejections. It was heartbreaking.
Those were some of the darkest seasons of my life. For four years and seven months, I couldn’t see my family. I remember saying to myself, “If I had known it would take this long to see them again, I might never have started this journey.”
During those long, uncertain nights, I packed my belongings three different times, ready to go back home to Ghana. Each time, I told myself I couldn’t do it anymore. But every morning, I found the strength to unpack again—because even though I was tired, something deep within me refused to let go. More than anything, I was prepared to give up… but I didn’t. But looking back, I realize those moments weren’t random. They exposed how unprepared many international students—myself included—are for the realities that come after graduation.
Through the frustration and tears, I found a deeper purpose. I wanted to help others avoid the same confusion and fear I experienced. In 2024, I created “Tales of the International Student”—a platform where I share my story and guide prospective and current international students through the process of studying abroad with clarity and confidence.
Today, as a third-year Ph.D. student in Higher Education Administration at the University of Mississippi, I see my journey differently. Every setback, every sleepless night, and every tear prepared me to serve a greater purpose. My story is not just about resilience—it’s about redemption, restoration, and helping others find light on a path I once walked in the dark.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities have kept me grounded: faith, joy, and purpose.
First, faith. As a Christian, I hold firmly to Psalm 60:11 — “Vain is the help of man.” Through every challenge, I’ve learned that only God can truly sustain me. When my immigration status was reinstated and new doors opened for me as a Ph.D. student, I knew it was nothing but His hand at work. Prayer became my lifeline—the only constant when everything else felt uncertain.
Second, joy. I’ve always believed that no matter how dark life gets, joy can still exist. Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is my strength,” and I live by that. Even in my hardest seasons, I kept smiling, traveled when I could, and never missed a chance to dance. Joy became my quiet rebellion against despair.
Finally, my purpose—my family. They’ve sacrificed so much for me to be here. Their love is my reminder that this journey is bigger than me; it’s about giving back and making them proud.
To anyone facing a difficult road, hold on to your faith and pray like everything depends on it—because it does. Choose joy even in the storm, and never forget why you started. Remember: only quitters lose.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
As I continue to share my journey, I’m looking to expand the mission of Tales of the International Student through meaningful collaborations with universities and institutions across the United States and Africa.
In the U.S., my goal is to partner with universities to create spaces where I can speak directly to current international students about life beyond the classroom—addressing the realities many face but few are prepared for. While most institutions focus on helping students earn degrees, few prepare them for life outside the walls of academia—navigating cultural adjustment, workplace integration, financial independence, and immigration challenges. My story could have been very different if I had received this kind of guidance when I first arrived.
In Africa, I hope to collaborate with universities to equip prospective graduate students with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the application and visa process successfully. These sessions can help them arrive in the U.S. not just hopeful, but prepared and confident.
Most importantly, I seek to work closely with embassies and consular offices to bridge the information gap that often leaves students vulnerable. Together, we can host verified information sessions to reduce misinformation and scams, share official embassy resources that students often overlook, and highlight success stories that inspire others to pursue their dreams with integrity and preparation.
My vision is to see a generation of international students who thrive—academically, emotionally, and professionally—because they are equipped for both the opportunities and the challenges that come with studying abroad.
I can be reached on linkedIn @ Bernadine Allala , Instagram @_ber_na_dine_, YouTube @Ber_Na_Dine or reach out to bold journey magazine.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ber_na_dine?igsh=MXM3cGdhamlyYWZudg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernadine-allala-bb1455192?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ber_Na_Dine
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