My name is Bibi S. Wajid-Persaud. I was born in Guyana, a country located in South America. I enjoy traveling so much that I took my first major flight from Guyana to America at the age of 2! You must be saying, this chick is insane, but really, I am not, I promise! Seeking a better life, my parents chose to migrate to the United States so that I could get a better education and our family could have better opportunities financially. During the 80s, Guyana wasn't the best place for growth. Presently, many Guyanese born are seeking to go back to Guyana and
retire due to the blooming economic situation there now. That's a whole different story though. Coming back to ME, I am the first born for my parents, eldest
grandchild for my paternal grandparents, and the second, but favorite grandchild of my maternal grandparents (just kidding about the favorite, even though I DO consider myself to be their favorite). Growing up was a struggle that I didn't understand until adulthood. I didn't understand the struggles of my grandparents, parents, and uncles, until I learned about responsibilities. My grandfather would leave at 5am and return home at 6pm summer or winter, my mother would work 2 jobs, and my uncles were working and going to school. My grandmother would cook, clean, take care of me and my needs, and never allowed me to feel their hardship. I remember many times, when I would be up with my grandmother and ask her why she isn't going to sleep, and she would tell me, "I am waiting for your uncle to come home first." I always thought she was silly, but now, as a mother, I
understand her worry. My maternal grandparents, my Papa and Mama, left Guyana when I was about 1. Then I was reunited with them a year later. My mother considered the travel from Guyana to America quite hard. Imagine, she was traveling for the first time ALONE with a toddler! I can only imagine the frustration, nervousness, and anxiety she experienced, but it was worth it. I completed elementary, middle, and high school in America, specifically New York. While growing up, I always remember the talks I would have with my grandparents. They would always tell me stories about their life in Guyana. Papa used to work in the Estates and Mama would take care of the house and make snacks to sell. Regardless of the conversation, one thing that they would always mention is that we should always take our education, always do good, be good,
be kind, and never forget our duty to God. They were the epitome of this and I try to live up to that expectation. My ultimate dream has been to attain the "Dr."
title. I was not sure if this was going to ever happen, but it was a goal of mine. In 2015, I needed a way to cope with the loss of a child. I did not know what to do, but I knew I needed something to keep my mind busy. As a result, I decided to return to school after graduating with my undergrad in 2008. In 2015, I enrolled in a Master program at SNHU. As a full-time mother, pregnant again, and working, I persevered. I finished my Masters degree in 2019 and felt accomplished, but I wanted more. I said, if I find a program that allows me the feasibility to complete my degree without interfering with my life, I will go for it. Upon researching, I came across Murray State University (MSU). This was a game changer for me. I enrolled and began my journey. During this time, COVID happened, I met my Cohort, and I found my place. MSU created opportunities that I thought I would not have. With the world on lockdown, a 3 year old
toddler, and a middle schooler now going remote, I embarked on my doctoral journey. Three years later, I am now writing as a soon to be Doctor and the first in
my family to acquire this degree level. During these three years, I have lost both of my grandfathers, and in a matter of 5 years, I have lost 3 of my grandparents, my papa, mama, and grandpa. I pray that God forgives their shortcomings, and grants them heaven. I pray that I have made them proud with all that I have
accomplished.