“I Am Gaining Practical Knowledge to Tackle Real-World Challenges,” Says Business Student, Paul M.

Based in Malawi, Paul M. is earning his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at the University of the People. Balancing family responsibilities, community commitments, and academic goals, he’s building a path to opportunity through resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of education.

Paul grew up in a modest household, raised by a single mother who supported the family through subsistence farming. “Our family’s means were always tight, and resources for schooling, books, and uniforms were scarce,” he recalls. “But my mother always emphasized the importance of education. I completed my secondary schooling and earned the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE), which is equivalent to an A-level in some systems. I helped with farm chores after school and stayed focused on my dream of higher education as a path to a brighter future.”

For years, that dream felt out of reach. Financial struggles, limited guidance on scholarships, and the challenge of balancing family duties made it difficult to pursue further studies. Yet Paul never gave up. Determined to find a way, he turned to online education as a potential solution.

He discovered UoPeople through an online search. Though initially skeptical, reading student testimonials gave him the confidence to take the leap. “UoPeople’s affordability, flexibility, and accessibility were exactly what I needed,” he says. “The doors opened as soon as I applied—it gave me hope that this could finally be my path to higher education.”

Studying online has allowed Paul to earn his degree without stepping away from his responsibilities at home. “The format fits seamlessly into my schedule,” he explains. “I’m gaining practical business knowledge that directly applies to real-world challenges. It’s given me the confidence to build the career I’ve always wanted. I’d recommend UoPeople to anyone facing financial or logistical barriers to traditional education.”

Paul plans to complete his bachelor’s degree and use his education to support sustainable development and small-to-medium enterprises in Malawi. He hopes to advance into management roles, pursue further studies in entrepreneurship or finance, and mentor young students in his community.

Outside of studying, Paul enjoys reading about business trends, exploring market opportunities, and learning practical entrepreneurship strategies. He spends time with his family, contributes to community projects, and helps with household and farming duties.

Balancing school, work, and family isn’t easy, but Paul manages it with careful planning and discipline. “I set realistic goals and use the flexibility of online learning to make it all work,” he says. The network he’s built at UoPeople—including peers and mentors—keeps him motivated and connected, reinforcing his belief that education can open doors for anyone willing to work for it.

Paul’s story is a testament to perseverance and possibility. Through resilience, focus, and the accessibility of online learning, he’s turning obstacles into opportunities—and proving that when education is within reach, entire communities can rise together. We are proud of Paul’s journey and wish him every success in the future.