From Nigeria to Now: The Power of Technology in My Education by Olachi

From Nigeria to Now: The Power of Technology in My Education by Olachi - November 2025 Scholarship Essay

Going to school in Nigeria, technology was not used in the classroom. Everything was done on paper and with a pen. The teachers would only use a blackboard to teach. There was no use of computers, phones, or projectors. During that time, learning was difficult, and I often got bored and let my mind wander. I moved to America in fourth grade, and my learning experience truly transformed because of the use of technology.
When I entered class for the first time, the first thing I noticed was the projector. Instead of a blackboard, color and images were projected on the screen for students to see. I was given a Chromebook that allowed me to complete assignments and learn through interactive math games. Technology immediately made learning more engaging for me. Back in Nigeria, I always thought I just wasn’t smart enough or didn’t pay enough attention to understand the subjects, but now I realize that I wasn’t engaged enough with the course. Educational videos, math games, and other resources turned abstract concepts into real visual experiences. Platforms such as Kahoot, Quizlet, and Google Classroom make lessons much more understandable and make studying so much more fun. Especially as a child, I believe games, videos, and even fun, colorful images can help children understand concepts easily, be interested in school subjects, and be eager to learn more. Technology has kept me far more organized and focused as a student. Notifications from Google Calendar and Google Classroom help me stay on top of due dates and focus on assignments that need to be completed first.
Communication is also easier and more accessible due to technology. Back in Nigeria, if I had a question about a homework assignment, I would have to wait until the next day, when I saw the teacher in class, to get an answer. Now I can email the teacher and get answers much quicker. Technology has made collaboration much easier, especially during group projects. I can easily email, video call, and share a document with my teammates. This provides efficiency and saves time, allowing us to focus on important things.
Today, I rely on digital textbooks, online lectures, and study apps that help me learn more efficiently. Technology has especially supported me now as a college student majoring in finance. Technology has opened doors I never imagined back in Nigeria. Tools like Excel, financial calculators, and online business platforms allow me to practice real data analysis and understand economic concepts. Technology didn’t just improve my classroom experience—it has made a career in finance feel possible. Technology helped me realize I was capable all along—I just needed the right tools to learn.
Overall, technology didn’t just make learning easier—it changed my entire educational path. It helped me understand my strengths, gave me confidence in subjects I once struggled with, and opened doors to opportunities I never imagined back in Nigeria. As I continue studying finance, technology remains at the center of how I learn, grow, and prepare for my future.