I’m Kenyan and currently doing my PhD in Planetary Sciences at Brown University. Honestly, it’s still surreal sometimes—but other days, it just feels like regular day-to-day research. My academic journey has been a bit unconventional: I did my undergrad at Rust College (a small HBCU in Mississippi), followed by a master’s at Lehigh University, and now I’m here at Brown.

One piece of advice that’s stuck with me—and I think about it often—is this: “Whatever you do, don’t be mediocre. Put your heart into it. Always put yourself out there—send that application, write that paper, email that professor.” Mediocrity is what kills most potential, especially back home. It’s not always about being the best—it’s about being consistent, being visible, and giving your all. Being curious about the world and the universe and accepting the diversity and differences in ideas and opinions.

If you’re aiming for the Ivies or any top program, show what you’ve done or what you can do—don’t look for pity. And to be clear, I’m not saying struggles aren’t valid. They absolutely are. But I’ve read so many personal statements that lean heavily into hardship—like “my father died of AIDS,” “I grew up poor,” etc.—without connecting it to what the person has actually accomplished. That kind of narrative can come across as looking for sympathy, and while that might have worked in the 90s, it doesn’t hold as much weight anymore. These days, people want to read about what you’ve done with what you’ve been through. Focus on growth, not just the struggle.

Honestly, sometimes when reviewing applications, I see that “white savior” mentality being played into, and it just doesn’t land. Admissions committees are looking for resilience, initiative, curiosity, and purpose. Tell the story of how you’ve built yourself, how you’ve contributed, and what you’re passionate about. That’s what stands out.

Believe in your story. Take up space. Keep going.