Global Voices - The International Student Podcast Ep. 3

Summary

In this episode of Global Voices, Nigerian doctorate student Alanti shares his journey and insights into pursuing a DBA at Walch College. With a background in industrial mathematics and business, Alanti emphasizes the importance of networking, practical experience, and the college's supportive community. He dispels myths about isolation in doctoral programs and highlights the role of technology in facilitating research and study. Alanti's story inspires aspiring students worldwide, showcasing the balance between academic rigor and real-world application.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The guest, Alanti, is a Nigerian doctoral student at Walch College, majoring in accounting within a DBA program.
• 🌍 Alanti emphasizes the importance of networking and how it led him to Walch College, highlighting the college's reputation for producing practical graduates.
• 📚 He mentions the specific requirements for the doctoral program, including a first degree, professional experience, a master's degree, and English proficiency assessment through WES or alternative tests.
• 🔍 Alanti shared his personal journey of discovering Walch College through a colleague and researching it to find it aligned with his career and educational goals.
• 👨‍🏫 The program combines academic theory with practical industry knowledge, taught by experienced professionals, which was a significant draw for Alanti.
• 👩‍🏫 Alanti's experience includes being a teaching assistant and later an adjunct faculty member, showing the opportunities for involvement beyond just being a student.
• 🏆 He received a scholarship from Walch, demonstrating that the college supports and recognizes the efforts of dedicated students.
• 📈 Alanti talks about the importance of consistency and managing time effectively to keep up with the program's demands, such as weekly assignments and exams.
• 🤝 He dispels the myth of isolation in a doctoral program by describing social events like coffee hours and residency programs that foster community among students.
• 📚 Alanti acknowledges the significant reading involved in the program but also highlights the flexibility of learning methods, including audio and video materials, and the use of AI for summarizing articles.
• 💡 The guest is inspired by the idea of community building and giving back through mentorship, showing the impact of the program on his personal and professional aspirations.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in this episode of Global Voices?

The main topic of discussion is the experience of an international doctoral student from Nigeria pursuing a DBA program at Wash College, focusing on the requirements, process, and personal insights of the program.

What is the background of the guest, Alanti, before joining the doctoral program at Wash College?

Alanti has a first degree in industrial mathematics, a Masters in Business Administration, and over 25 years of work experience, including starting his own business.

Why did Alanti choose to pursue a doctoral program at Wash College?

Alanti chose Wash College because of its solid background in producing practical graduates, its focus on DBA and accounting, and the recommendation from a colleague.

What are some of the specific requirements for the doctoral program at Wash College?

Some of the requirements include having a first degree, professional experience in the field, a master's degree, and English proficiency, which can be assessed through services like WES or by taking an English test conducted by the college.

How did Alanti get involved in teaching at Wash College?

Alanti started as a teaching assistant in his first month and was later given the role of an adjunct faculty member by the end of the third semester.

What kind of support does Wash College provide to its doctoral students?

Wash College provides support through its instructors who have industry experience, offering a blend of academic and professional knowledge. They also offer scholarships and conduct social events like coffee hours for networking.

What are the MythBusters about the doctoral program that Alanti discussed?

Alanti discussed the myth that being in a doctoral program isolates you from the world, which he refuted by mentioning social events and networking opportunities provided by the college.

How does Alanti view the importance of reading in the doctoral program?

Alanti views reading as very important for understanding concepts and human emotions, and he appreciates the flexibility in Wash College's program that includes audio or video lectures for those who prefer listening over reading.

What role does technology play in the Wash College doctoral program?

Technology plays a significant role by facilitating online courses, recorded lectures, and the use of AI to summarize articles and assist with dissertation research.

How does Alanti perceive the community building aspect of the doctoral program?

Alanti sees community building as essential, emphasizing the importance of sharing knowledge and helping others grow, which in turn fulfills him and contributes to his professional development.

What are Alanti's future plans after completing his doctoral program?

Alanti plans to apply the knowledge gained to expand his FM, employ and mentor young people, and ensure the sustainability of his business beyond his tenure.