I was born in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. My childhood was filled with curiosity, ambition, and a strong desire to learn, but my dreams often felt larger than the opportunities around me. My family background meant that quality education was not something we could easily access, and higher learning felt like a distant goal rather than a pathway within reach.
Growing up, I watched friends and peers move forward academically while I waited—sometimes patiently, sometimes painfully—for my chance. Even then, I held on to the belief that education would eventually open doors for me, and I promised myself I would not stop trying.
Learning from Work and Life
After completing secondary school, the question that followed me every day was: What next? I did not want to sit at home waiting for circumstances to change. So, I started a small business to support myself. Running it taught me early lessons about responsibility, customer service, and resilience, but eventually, I had to close it when my studies demanded more of my time.
To earn a living, I took on various roles wherever opportunities arose. I began as a cashier at Central Hospital in Gboko, where I learned the discipline of financial management and the reality of service in a demanding environment. Later, during a year-long university strike, I worked as a cleaner with Stanbic IBTC Bank — a humbling experience that taught me that there is dignity in every job and strength in every career step, no matter how small.
After graduating from university, I worked with the WHO End Polio Project through Stanbic IBTC while waiting for my NYSC posting. During NYSC, I served at the Corporate Affairs Commission, where I saw firsthand how institutions function and support national development. I later joined the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, an experience that exposed me to community-focused work, development challenges, and the power of collaboration.
Each role added layers to my growth — determination, confidence, and the belief that no experience is wasted.
Discovering the Opportunity That Changed Everything: UoPeople MBA
By 2021, I knew I needed to continue my education if I wanted to move forward professionally and personally. But traditional university options felt out of reach due to cost and access.
Then, almost by accident, I stumbled upon University of the People while browsing online for job opportunities. A simple advertisement caught my attention —the idea of ‘tuition-free‘ education excited me. I remember pausing, reading it again, and thinking: Could this be real? It was. And it became the doorway I had been praying for.
I enrolled in the MBA program. My time at UoPeople was transformational. Not only did I receive a scholarship, but I also felt supported every step of the way — from instructors to my program advisor. I had access to the right materials, and I found the virtual classroom easy to navigate, even when life was busy.
The coursework was flexible and practical, and I appreciated that I could learn from peers from all around the world, each bringing unique perspectives. My MBA wasn’t just a degree — it became a bridge to new skills, self-belief, and a wider professional network.
I often say UoPeople didn’t just educate me — it empowered me.
A Career Transformed
Today, I proudly work remotely with Rosabon Financial Services, where I sell investment products and engage directly with clients. Transitioning from administrative roles into sales might have been intimidating without the foundation my MBA gave me, but I made the shift with confidence.
My writing abilities grew stronger through weekly assignments and peer discussions. My analytical skills sharpened. I feel more capable of communicating professionally, generating ideas, and taking initiative. And perhaps most importantly, I now see myself as someone who belongs at the table — not as a spectator, but as a contributor. The journey was long and, at times, challenging, but graduating in 2024 was one of the proudest moments of my life.
My Message to Others
To current students:
Never hesitate to ask for support. Advisors and instructors are there to guide you, and a simple message or question can keep you moving forward.
To future students:
If finances are holding you back, know that there is another path. UoPeople gave me a chance when traditional systems shut me out. Take the step — it could change everything.
Dreaming Forward
I often reflect on how far I’ve come — from a girl with dreams but no access, to a woman shaping her future with education and possibility.
My long-term goals are bold and rooted in the experiences that shaped me. I hope to build a fashion business that reaches across borders, provide mentorship to people facing financial hardship, and support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who want to learn, grow, and rewrite their stories.
About the Author
Benedicta E. is a Nigerian professional and UoPeople MBA graduate based in Benue State. With experience across health care, public service, and financial services, she now works remotely with Rosabon Financial Services, where she helps clients navigate investment opportunities. Passionate about education, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, Benedicta is committed to supporting others—especially those with limited means—to pursue learning and financial stability. She credits much of her success to her husband, her unwavering supporter and cheerleader, who stood by her through long study nights, financial challenges, and every milestone. When she’s not working or building her next goal, Benedicta enjoys listening to music, singing, and dancing—joyful reminders to stay grounded and celebrate every win.
