Karsh International Scholarship Scholar Michael Hayford from Ghana Shares His Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Bachelor's at Duke University, United States

My name is Michael Hayford, and I am from Ghana. I am currently studying Computer Science at Duke University.

I decided to pursue Computer Science because I have always been interested in solving problems and building tools that can create real impact. Growing up, I saw how access to technology and education could open doors, and I wanted to gain the skills to build solutions that can help people and communities.

Karsh International Scholarship Details

I received the Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University.

The Karsh International Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students from different parts of the world. It provides full funding for undergraduate study, covering tuition, room, board, and other major educational expenses.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

I was not offered any other scholarships.

Educational Background

I attended Opoku Ware School in Ghana, where I graduated with a GPA of 3.99. My educational background prepared me well because it gave me a strong academic foundation, especially in problem-solving, mathematics, and analytical thinking. It also taught me discipline, consistency, and how to work hard even when resources were limited. These qualities helped me when applying to competitive universities and scholarships.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Duke University?

I prepared by researching universities that offered strong academic programs and generous financial aid for international students. Since I needed significant financial support, I focused on schools that were known to support international applicants.

I also worked on making my application as strong and complete as possible. This included preparing my essays, getting recommendation letters, studying for standardized tests, and making sure my activities and achievements were clearly presented.

How Did You Find Information About Karsh International Scholarship and Duke University?

I found information mainly through university websites, scholarship pages, and stories from students who had received scholarships before. YouTube helped very much. I paid close attention to institutions that offered need-based financial aid or full scholarships for international students.

For Duke specifically, I learned that international students could be considered for scholarships such as the Karsh International Scholarship through the undergraduate admissions process.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, I took the SAT and scored 1530.

To prepare, I practiced consistently, reviewed my mistakes, and took full-length practice tests. I focused on understanding the types of questions that appeared often and improving my timing. Practice was very important because it helped me become more comfortable with the structure of the exam.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Karsh International Scholarship?

The Karsh International Scholarship does not require a separate application. Students are selected from the general undergraduate admissions pool at Duke University.

Because of that, I focused on making my Duke application as strong as possible. I tried to present a clear story about who I was, where I came from, what I had worked hard for, and what I hoped to contribute to the future.

How is Your Experience at Duke University?

My experience at Duke has been very rewarding. Duke is academically challenging, but it also provides many opportunities to grow. I have been able to learn from great professors, meet students from different backgrounds, and explore my interests both inside and outside the classroom.

Being at Duke has pushed me to think bigger and become more confident in my abilities.

How Do You Rate Duke University Academically?

I would rate Duke very highly academically. The classes are challenging, the professors are knowledgeable, and students are encouraged to think critically. Duke also provides access to research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and career opportunities.

The academic environment pushes students to work hard while also giving them resources to succeed.

How Does Duke University Support International Students?

Duke supports international students through advising, orientation programs, student groups, and campus resources. There are also communities where international students can connect with others who share similar experiences.

This support is helpful because moving to a new country for school can be a big adjustment.

What Did You Pursue After the Karsh International Scholarship?

I am still pursuing my undergraduate degree in Computer Science at Duke University.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it showed more than just academic achievement. My grades and SAT score were important, but I also tried to show my personal story, my background, my motivation, and the kind of impact I wanted to make.

I think my application showed resilience, curiosity, leadership, and a strong sense of purpose. I was honest about where I was coming from and clear about how education would help me grow and contribute to others.

Looking Back, Would You Have Done Anything Differently During Your Time in the Program?

I would have started the process earlier. College and scholarship applications take a lot of time, especially when writing essays, preparing for tests, asking for recommendation letters, and researching institutions.

Starting early gives you more time to revise your essays, prepare properly, and avoid unnecessary stress.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice is to be authentic and intentional. Do not try to copy someone else’s story. Focus on your own journey, your values, your goals, and the impact you want to make.

Also, take your essays seriously because they help the admissions committee understand who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Research schools carefully, prepare early, ask for feedback, and apply even if the opportunity feels too competitive. You never know what can happen unless you try.