Responding to a Need for Neuroscience
Few students have had as much worldly experience by the time they get to Concordia as Eunice Gikundiro ’22. As an international neuroscience student, she brings a unique perspective to college in the United States.
Eunice Gikundiro ’22, Butare, Rwanda
In our conversation with her, Gikundiro tells about what brought her to Concordia, her college experience so far and the impact she plans to make when she graduates.
Tell us a bit about your background. Where are you from and how did you become interested in neuroscience?
My name is Eunice Kayitare Gikundiro and I am an international student from Rwanda. I lived and studied in Rwanda until halfway through my sophomore year of high school. I then received a scholarship to study two years of pre-university at the United World College Maastricht in the Netherlands. There, I majored in biology, physics and global politics, and minored in math, Spanish and English literature. At Concordia, I am majoring in neuroscience and have a minor in international affairs.
My passion for neuroscience is mostly embedded in my interest in neurology and also the lack of neurosurgeons in my country. After studying here, my aim is to go back to Rwanda and try to grow the neuroscience field.
Why did you choose Concordia?
I got to know Concordia through the university fair in at my previous school in Maastricht. I liked it more because of its Christian affiliation, the education and great scholarships offered.
What has your experience as an international student been like?
In my opinion, I feel like being an international student sometimes brings more attention to you due to your accents, etc. So far, it has been a learning adventure for me here both academically and socially. I have had most of my education in a French and Dutch system, so integrating English as well is very enriching.
What do you like about neuroscience at Concordia?
I really like how the professors are easily accessible for help when you need it, and I also find the exposure that we have to hands-on lab work very important for future careers in science.
Are there any notable things you have done during your time in the U.S.? Do you have any interesting or funny stories about your time here?
I have been in the U.S. for a few months so far, mostly in the Fargo-Moorhead area, but I am planning to visit other places with time. So far I am still amazed by the size of everything here that I have the impression that it is twice the size of other places. For example, the roads are wider, cars are bigger (compared to the European or African standards) and the size of food (I once ordered a small smoothie, but it looked medium to me).
What advice would you give to an international student who is considering Concordia?
My first piece of advice to an international student would be to encourage them to apply as early as they can to get the benefit of scholarships that they’re eligible for. Also, prepare ahead of time what they truly want to get from their education. Finally, get ready for the winter here!
Published January 2019