Meet Mouhameth Ba: A Journey of Resilience and Achievement
Mouhameth Ba, originally from Senegal, is an inspiring figure whose story beautifully weaves together threads of determination and success. His journey began when he moved to the United States without any knowledge of English. Armed with nothing but a smartphone and Google Translate, he sought directions upon arriving at the airport, marking the beginning of an incredible adventure. Now, four years later, Ba is not just an Oakland Community College (OCC) graduate; he has also overcome the language barrier to speak fluent English.
Ba’s time at OCC has been transformative. Enrolling in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, he worked hard to master a new language during an unprecedented time—the COVID-19 pandemic. This period presented unique challenges, from remote learning to navigating the complexities of English conversation. “I learned all my English at OCC,” he reflects, citing the invaluable role of ESL classes in enhancing his listening and speaking skills.
On May 17, a day that coincidentally is his birthday, Ba will graduate with not one, but three Associate Degrees: Applied Science in Pre-Engineering, Technological Sciences, and Science. His academic accomplishments are commendable, and he is set to continue his studies at the University of Detroit Mercy, where he will pursue a Bachelor’s degree in robotics and mechatronic systems engineering with a focus on electrical engineering.
Ba’s early life in Senegal was filled with rich cultural experiences, especially under the care of his grandmother in a country celebrated for its warmth and hospitality. After graduating high school, he took the bold step of moving to the U.S., and within a year, he became a permanent resident—a testament to his hard work and ambition.
His enthusiasm for engineering ignited in OCC’s Intro to Engineering class, where he was inspired to explore hands-on projects, like building and programming robots. “I love troubleshooting and problem-solving,” he says with excitement, sharing snippets of his experiences in class.
Currently, Ba is gaining practical experience as an apprentice with CBRE, a company that supports Amazon’s robotics systems. He harbors dreams of returning to Senegal to establish a company that empowers aspiring engineers with skills comparable to those he has gained in the U.S. His deep appreciation for OCC’s role in his journey is palpable as he expresses, “OCC has everything a student needs. Devotion, determination, and discipline are essential for success.”
As Ba prepares to embark on the next chapter of his life, his inspiring story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and education. He stands as a role model for many, illustrating how challenges can be transformed into opportunities.
To learn more about what Oakland Community College has to offer, visit their official website or explore the programs available that can help you carve your path to success.
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Tags: #Senegal, #Education, #Inspiration, #WorldNews, #Lifestyle
