Scholarship Recipient Aspires to Drive Social Impact

Annual Fund Scholarship Recipient and first-generation student Ada Mbogu has always embraced a passion for service. 

Ada was born and raised in New York within a Nigerian-American family that deeply influenced her, imparting the values of community and service.

Growing up, Ada saw family members serving others through the health care professions and expected to follow a similar path. After working for a few years in the public health field, Ada got involved in a project focused on increasing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the medical field and discovered a new enthusiasm.

“It was transformative because I got to see the importance of advocacy and humanizing the workplace and ensuring that everyone feels they belong.”

While facing losses during COVID, Ada realized that she wanted to change her career. She transitioned to a professional DEI role and decided to pursue a Master’s in I/O Psychology.

“GGU was the only school I applied to because there was feeling that the skills I will be learning here will be directly applicable to my new career.”

Ada was also attracted to the networking opportunities at GGU and its proximity to tech companies.

“I’m excited to learn more about how we can apply human behavior to make workplaces more inclusive and ensure that we all have the space to bring our vulnerable, authentic selves to our work.”

Ada also appreciates the flexibility of taking classes online on her own schedule.

“I think this education is really going to propel me into the career that I want. At GGU, I’m able to sharpen my voice and develop competencies. Especially as a Black woman, that’s important.” 

The Annual Fund Scholarship that Ada received for the 2022-2023 academic year is making a big difference in Ada’s life and education, and she’s committed to paying it forward. 

“Thank you so much,” said Ada. “Being a graduate student in the Industrial / Organizational Psychology program has been a life-changing experience. Remarkably, GGU continues to support its students, and receiving the Special Scholarship is no exception. I look forward to continuing my studies and graduating from my program to drive tremendous impact.”

Currently, Ada is exploring career possibilities including strategic HR, management consulting, and entrepreneurship.

“I think this is what I’m born to do, and I hope to drive social impact in the way that makes sense to me. This education is teaching me that there is not one way to drive impact.”