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Born and raised in Zambia, James C. grew up speaking Bemba and French at home. So, when he arrived at preschool, he didn’t know any English and had a tough time learning the language in school. This was not the toughest part of his early school years. “I faced racism at elementary school for being a Bemba kid, but this made me stronger in a positive way,” he says frankly. 

What did James C. enjoy in school? Reading and studying history became the highlights of his time at school. At fourteen, he started playing chess after being introduced to the game by a friend—which became a big passion. James C. describes his early years growing up as, “fun, memorable, stressful, and challenging.”  

James eventually went to a traditional college to pursue a bachelor’s degree, but he did not like his time there. “I felt confused and without the guidance I needed in every way. I switched my major three times, finally settling on Human Services (or social work). I struggled for a year with unpaid internships to get some experience in the hope of landing a good job somewhere. But, nothing seemed to be working,” he shares.  

Where is James now? Currently, he is a fitness professional in his hometown and thoroughly enjoys guiding others in healthy eating and living. What prompted him to choose UoPeople to pursue a bachelor’s degree in health science?   

“I wanted to study at a school that could offer me the flexibility to earn a degree and manage my work and other passions at the same time. I am grateful for the new opportunities that SA���ʴ�ý has given me. I feel fortunate to be earning an affordable degree. I’m proud to be earning my bachelor’s degree in health science. I’m gaining knowledge that will be essential for the career I want. I also love the pedagogical model that leverages collaborative learning,” he says. 

What will James do once he graduates? Well, James has big plans to build a business aligned with his interests and values that will serve other health enthusiasts like himself. “My vision is to be a leader and mentor in my field. I want to use my expertise to create positive change in the world. For now, I’m busy learning the skills at UoPeople that will help make that dream possible” he adds.  

We are excited and proud to be able to provide James with an opportunity to make his dreams come true. There’s no limit to how far he will go in life, and we for one can’t wait to see all he achieves.