(1) Could you please tell us your full name?
My name is Blessing Uchechi Nwala.
(2) Where are you originally from?
I am from Nigeria.
(3) Which university are you currently attending?
Bowling Green State University.
(4) What program are you studying?
Master’s in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics.
(5) Before finding 8B, what challenges did you face in trying to fund your education? Who else did you seek help from, and how did they respond?
Before discovering 8B Education, funding my graduate studies felt like climbing an endless mountain. I had the passion, drive, and a clear vision for my future, but financially, I was stuck. I searched extensively for scholarships and grants both locally and internationally, applying to NGOs, government programs, and even reaching out to private sponsors. Some opportunities seemed promising at first but later turned out to have rigid eligibility requirements or were only open to undergraduate students.
I also explored traditional bank loans, but the interest rates and repayment terms were unrealistic, especially for an international student with limited collateral. Each rejection chipped away at my hope, and I began to question whether I would ever be able to begin this next chapter of my academic journey. The financial strain was not just discouraging, it was emotionally exhausting. I was determined not to give up, but I was rapidly running out of options and time was not on my side. That was when I found 8B Education, and everything started to change.
(6) When you reached out to 8B for help, what was that experience like? How did the team respond and support you?
Reaching out to 8B Education felt like finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. From the very first interaction, the experience was personal and sincere. I was not treated as just another applicant; I felt seen, heard, and supported at every step. The 8B team was incredibly responsive and took the time to understand my specific circumstances.
They carefully walked me through every detail of the process, from documentation to loan structure, in a way that was easy to understand. What stood out most was their willingness to provide guidance not only on the financial side but also in preparing me mentally and emotionally for my transition to graduate school in the U.S. Unlike the automated rejections I had experienced elsewhere, 8B offered clarity, reassurance, and genuine partnership. Even after the loan was approved, they continued to check in and share resources to help me settle in. It truly felt like being part of a community invested in the success of African students globally.
(7) How did the support from 8B change your education and professional journey?
The support I received from 8B Education was truly life-changing. Without their help, I would not be studying at Bowling Green State University today. Their intervention transformed what once felt like a distant dream into a tangible reality.
Academically, I have been able to fully focus on my studies in cybersecurity and digital forensics without the constant worry of tuition or living expenses. That peace of mind has allowed me to invest my energy in learning, networking, and professional growth. Beyond academics, their support opened doors to valuable connections with professionals, mentors, and peers in my field. I have gained hands-on experience through projects and internships aligned with my career goals, and I have grown more confident as a woman in tech, a space where representation truly matters. 8B did not just help me pay for school; they gave me a solid foundation to build my future.
(8) Since receiving support from 8B, what new opportunities have opened up for you?
Since receiving support from 8B, I have gained access to academic resources, professional networks, and internship opportunities that are shaping my career path. I have attended cybersecurity workshops and conferences, worked with digital forensic tools, and connected with mentors who are leaders in the field.
I have also joined women-in-tech and women-in-cybersecurity communities that are empowering and inspiring. These experiences have strengthened my resume and prepared me for a successful career in cybersecurity. Most importantly, I have gained confidence in navigating the tech space as an African woman, a journey I now help other young women begin through mentorship.
(9) Looking ahead, what are your future career goals?
My long-term goal is to become a cybersecurity expert specializing in digital forensics and threat intelligence. I aspire to work with international organizations to design secure digital infrastructures and help protect systems from cybercrime, particularly in developing countries. I also hope to return to Nigeria to support tech-driven solutions and mentor young women entering the tech space. Ultimately, I want to help bridge the digital divide and strengthen cyber resilience across Africa.
(10) What would you say to other African students who are thinking about 8B?
If you are an African student dreaming of studying abroad but facing financial barriers, do not give up. 8B could be the lifeline you need. They do not just provide funding; they offer real support and guidance tailored to your journey. I have personally referred others who have benefited from their support, and seeing their dreams come alive has been incredibly rewarding. 8B truly understands our challenges and is deeply invested in our success. I am living proof that with the right support, your dreams are absolutely within reach.
(11) Before joining the 8B loan program, how would you describe your financial literacy around student financing?
Average.
(12) After completing the program, how would you rate your financial literacy now?
Excellent.
(13) And finally, how satisfied are you overall with the support provided by 8B?
