Provost International Scholarship Recipient, Nneh Nnah-Ndobe Maathai from Cameroon, is Pursuing Her Biomedical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T)

My name is Nneh Nnah-Ndobe Maathai, and I’m originally from Yaoundé, Cameroon, with family roots in the Bakossi and Bayangi cultures. I am a junior at the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T), majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a biomaterials focus, alongside a pre-med minor and a certificate in neuroscience. My academic journey is deeply personal, shaped by experiences of injury, recovery, and a desire to create inclusive healthcare solutions that blend indigenous wisdom with modern science.

Provost International Scholarship Details

I received the Provost International Scholarship from Missouri S&T, which awards $7,500 per semester. This scholarship has significantly reduced my tuition costs and made it possible for me to pursue my studies in biomedical innovation and neuroscience.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

N/A. However, Missouri S&T offers additional opportunities through scholarships.mst.edu, where students can apply for institutional and departmental awards. The Physics, Petroleum Engineering, and Computer/Electrical Engineering departments offer scholarships that are especially helpful to both domestic and international students.

Educational Background

Before transferring to Missouri S&T, I studied Mechanical Engineering Technology for two years at the PKFokam Institute of Excellence in Yaoundé. I graduated with a GPA of 3.64 and consistently ranked as the top student in my department. That experience gave me a strong foundation in engineering principles and scientific rigor, which prepared me well for the transition into biomedical engineering.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Missouri S&T?

I relied heavily on eduRank, university websites, and webinars. I did not seek out current students or alumni, personal opinions didn’t sway me. Instead, I paid close attention to how staff and students behaved during webinars: their coherence, authenticity, and how they spoke as individuals. If their discourse felt vague or forced, I moved on. I was looking for institutions whose actions spoke louder than promotional language.

Standardized Tests

I did not take any standardized tests. My academic credentials and performance spoke for themselves. Additionally, it would not have made a significant difference, as I was applying as a transfer student, so my test scores were not a major factor in my case. My first language is English, and all of my education was done in English.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Provost International Scholarship?

I sought feedback from peers to refine my application materials. At the time, I did not hold formal leadership roles, but I highlighted excellence awards and global achievements in my extracurriculars and academics. These included:

• Excellence Awards – Saint Benedict Catholic Bilingual College (2018, 2019, 2021)
• Winner in Photography – My Africa Is… Africa Day Competition, Enko Education (2020)
• Young Member Badge – The New York Academy of Sciences (2020)
• Silver Award – The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (2021)
• Best Poem – Commonwealth Interschool Competition (2022)
• Excellence Scholarship – PKFokam Institute of Excellence (2023)

After admission, I began contributing to remote advocacy projects like Mission Green Global (a youth-led environmental non-profit) and Khanquest (a community-based college access program), where I mentor students and promote inclusive leadership and science literacy outside of school hours.

How Is Your Experience at Missouri S&T?

Missouri S&T has been a space of growth and challenge. Faculty and staff are incredibly supportive, and there are over 200 registered student organizations, ranging from design teams to honor societies, that cater to every interest. I have found community through volunteering and mentorship. I have equally been able to step out of my comfort zone and contribute meaningfully to campus life.

How Do You Rate Missouri S&T Academically and Why?

It is rigorous and well-suited for students who crave both depth and flexibility. I have always wanted to broaden my scope while diving deep into my focus areas, and S&T has allowed me to do just that. As someone with a strong work ethic, the ability to tailor my degree to my interests has been both empowering and energizing.

How Does Missouri S&T Support International Students?

I have felt welcomed and encouraged. There are resources and communities that support international students, though I’ve personally found it challenging to access certain opportunities like research, scholarships, and employment. I remain hopeful and trust that the right doors will open in God’s time.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my personal essay conveyed a clear need for academic growth and geographic transition. It showed how my previous curriculum and location limited my potential, and how Missouri S&T’s program aligned with my drive and interests. The university’s R-1 research status, top 100 engineering ranking, and strong post-graduation ROI made it a natural fit. My application wasn’t just about credentials; it was about vision.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I would have started earlier and kept better records of my achievements. That would have made storytelling easier and more impactful.

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

Let your story reflect not just what you’ve done, but why it mattered and what you’re striving toward. Authenticity is your greatest strength; there’s only one you, and that’s exactly how you stand out. Seek feedback, and don’t shy away from showing your drive. Your background, values, lived experiences, unique circumstances, and vision are assets, not footnotes. I didn’t fully grasp that at the time, but I do now. If something happened to you, write about it. If you saw, heard, or lived through something that left even the faintest mark, share it. If you remember it, it probably meant something. Back then, the prompts felt too polished, too distant. I wish I’d known how to connect the chaos and beauty of my life to my application. Don’t be afraid to tell the truth. Your life is far too interesting to be replaced by a made-up story, no matter how ordinary it might seem to you. I’m rooting for you, and I hope to see your story on Hyun’s website someday.