Faith Quevedo, a senior at Michigan State University majoring in Human Biology with a minor in Chicano and Latino Studies, made the most of her experience as a Gupta Values Scholarship recipient through her involvement with Kenya Connect, an experience that provided invaluable life lessons and reinforced her desire to pursue a medical career and become a gynecologist and obstetrician. The Gupta Values Scholarship, established by alumnus Shashikant (Shashi) Gupta and his wife Margaret, provides much more than financial support to recipients, it promotes a culture of service, encouraging students to engage in meaningful projects.
Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Muthoka
For Faith, the scholarship allowed her to explore Kenya’s Wamunyu community through Kenya Connect, an organization aimed at improving education and literacy in rural areas. “Being in contact with the Guptas, I was able to see how by being a student at MSU, I could give back to my community and others who face similar challenges," she reflected.
Education, service and resilience
Before her trip to Kenya, Faith faced moments of self-doubt about her ability to make an impact on students. However, her fears quickly faded upon arriving in Africa. "I was warmly welcomed by students, staff, and teachers who were genuinely glad I was there. It was reassuring to see how much they appreciated my time and presence," she said.
Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Muthoka
“The moment that most inspired me was when I went to the primary and secondary schools to teach physics. When I revisited a school the second time, the students remembered my name and were excited to see me. They had more questions about science and physics,” Faith shared. This travel experience allowed her to see how much impact she can have on communities that are eager to learn.
Faith’s contributions during her time in Kenya weren’t limited only to teaching. She worked with parents on topics like diabetes, hypertension, and self-breast examinations, using similar approaches that worked with the students. Faith mirrored the educational approach that she used with the children in the afterschool program, so that parents could reinforce lessons. Members of the community attended sessions focused on medical health, where valuable information was shared on common and severe health issues. Parents had their questions answered and were directed to clinics and public health offices for further assistance.
Photo courtesy of Kenya Connect staff
Faith’s time in Kenya also helped her conquer feelings of imposter syndrome, a challenge many first-generation students face. "Before I went to Kenya, I was having a difficult time finding motivation to continue to medical school because I had a lot of imposter syndrome, comparing myself to other medical students. But by going to Kenya, I realized I am someone that the students and staff could confide in. It made me realize that my personality is one that allows people to come to me for help and advice," she said.
She recalls a particularly memorable day when the Kenya Connect staff took her to the local market. “Some of the students I taught were in the market, and they were yelling out my Kenyan tribal name, Mwende, which means ‘Love.’ They had given me this name during my time there, and it was such a heartwarming moment,” she recounted.
Faith’s time in Kenya was a journey of growth and self-discovery. "This was my first time going anywhere outside of the United States. It was my first international flight and maybe my third time on an airplane." Now more than ever she is determined to pursue her dream of becoming a gynecologist or obstetrician.
Photo courtesy of Kenya Connect volunteer
Faith’s advice for future Gupta Scholars is simple, but powerful: "Don’t limit yourself. I had no prior experience working with the community, but you learn by doing. Also, have an open mind with the cultural values each community has." Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, service, and resilience. Faith’s story serves as a roadmap for future scholars to venture out and make their own mark in the world.
By Richard Taylor