by Frank Oppong
Time is a curious companion, always moving forward, sometimes bringing joy, other times sorrow. It heals, it transforms, and it ultimately brings every journey to its end. As I pen these reflections, I’m filled with mixed emotions. A part of me is eager to cross the finish line, to leave behind assignments, quizzes, and the endless to-dos of student life. Yet, with each page turned, a new question lingers—what comes next?
The choices ahead are both exhilarating and daunting. Should I take a leap abroad, diving into the world as an international scholar or data analyst? Or should I return home to Ghana, bringing back what I’ve learned to inspire the next generation of researchers? The United States has become a second home, a place where friendships, connections, and professional bonds have taken root. I’ve long dreamed of seeing the world, of moving through spaces that challenge and broaden my horizons. Perhaps there’s a role out there that combines my thirst for exploration with the chance to make a meaningful impact.
In this third year of my doctoral journey, I can hardly believe how swiftly time has flown. What once seemed like a distant goal now feels tangible, just a few steps away. With the end of my formal education in sight, I find myself pausing, reflecting on the opportunities that have come my way and the path forward. I’m no longer the apprentice, waiting to be taught. I am prepared—equipped with the skills, knowledge, and determination to make a positive impact wherever I land.
My time in the U.S. has been transformative. This experience is one I will carry close, sharing stories with family and friends back home, describing moments that shaped me in ways words can barely capture. I envision sitting around a fire, recounting tales of late-night study sessions, of breakthrough moments in research, and of friendships that made the journey worthwhile. I know these stories will light imaginations, perhaps sparking dreams of similar journeys for others.
If knowledge truly is power, then I’ve been handed a powerful gift—the capacity to make a difference. My training in advanced research methods, statistics, and program evaluation has opened up worlds of opportunity, not only here in the U.S. but also on a global scale. Teaching graduate-level research methods has shown me what it means to be a faculty member, to hold a position that demands both intellectual rigor and a dedication to service. The skills I’ve honed as an instructor aren’t just credentials; they’re tools that equip me to give back, to inspire and support future researchers.
As I contemplate my options, I’m drawn in two distinct directions. On one hand, academia beckons. I can picture myself guiding students through complex methodologies, helping them navigate the journey from uncertainty to insight. In a faculty role, I’d not only teach but also serve as a methodologist, offering support and expertise on faculty and student research projects alike. The prospect of mentoring and collaborating with others, of being part of a vibrant academic community, is deeply fulfilling.
On the other hand, the world of industry is equally enticing. My background in statistics, psychometrics, and data analysis has prepared me for roles in institutional research and data-driven decision-making. From healthcare to education, from business to technology, institutions around the world rely on data to make informed decisions. My training allows me to turn raw numbers into actionable insights, to make sense of complex data and to help organizations see the bigger picture. Working with data is a joy—it’s like solving a puzzle where each piece reveals something important, guiding strategy and shaping policy.
Both paths hold their own rewards. My passion for teaching and sharing knowledge is undeniable, yet there’s a thrill in the analytical work that turns obscure data into something clear and meaningful. Whether in a university classroom or a corporate boardroom, my goal remains the same: to use my skills to create positive change.
As I stand on the cusp of this decision, I find clarity in one guiding principle. No matter where I go, I want to make a difference—not just for myself, but for others. Perhaps I will stay abroad, refining my skills in a technologically advanced setting and growing into an authority in my field. Or perhaps I will return home, bringing my experiences and expertise to Ghana, helping to shape the next generation of researchers, analysts, and thinkers.
In the end, it’s not just about the path I choose but the purpose behind it. Whether I end up as a scholar, an industry professional, or a bridge between both worlds, my dream is to inspire others, to foster curiosity and knowledge, and to contribute to a world where every piece of data, every insight, every lesson learned leads us closer to understanding and progress. The journey has only begun, and with each step, I move forward with purpose, passion, and a commitment to make a lasting impact.
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