As universities across the United States celebrate International Education Week from Nov. 17–21, Marquette is highlighting the experiences of international graduate students who enrich campus life. Today, the Graduate School features Oluwaferanmi Dahunsi, a master’s student in Communication, whose journey from Nigeria to Milwaukee is a story of resilience, curiosity and community.
Born and raised in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Dahunsi grew up in one of the city’s less urbanized areas, where life was communal and traditional. “Walking or driving through Ibadan, you encounter a fascinating blend of the past and present, colonial-era buildings, mid-20th century high-rises, bustling open-air markets, and densely packed neighborhoods,” he says. He fondly recalls the city’s iconic Cocoa House, once the tallest building in Nigeria, and the role soccer played in shaping his childhood. “Because Ibadan is so vast, we would clear open spaces ourselves to create makeshift soccer fields. It was more than a game; it was how we bonded and competed.”
Growing up with his parents and two older brothers, and a close relationship with an uncle who felt more like a brother and lived with them for a time, Dahunsi experienced a nurturing, if sometimes challenging, upbringing. School was not always easy. “There were times in high school when we didn’t even have enough chairs. It taught me resilience and that life doesn’t always give you what you deserve, only what you fight for,” he reflects.
Dahunsi’s love of storytelling and expression started early. At age nine, he became the youngest child actor in his church and appeared in several Christian films. “It was unusual for someone my age to be so expressive. Looking back, I think it was the first time I realized I might have untapped potential,” he says.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Bowen University in Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria, Dahunsi came to Marquette University on a friend’s recommendation. The Jesuit, Christian environment immediately resonated with him, aligning with the values central to his life.
At Marquette, Dahunsi is pursuing a Master of Arts in Communication, researching how digital design cues influence perceptions and parasocial relationships between humans and artificial intelligence agents. His work combines media psychology and human-computer interaction, building on earlier studies of media representation and stereotyping. “I’m fascinated by how subtle cues on digital platforms can shape perception,” he explains.
Community has been vital to Dahunsi’s Marquette experience. He first found connections through intramural soccer and the Graduate Student Organization, where he now serves as the communication officer. “The faculty and students in the Diederich College of Communication have been incredibly welcoming. It truly feels like a family,” he says.
Though he still enjoys cooking traditional Nigerian dishes like Amala and Ewedu, Dahunsi has embraced American favorites such as burgers, fries and barbecue. “Simple, but satisfying,” he laughs.
Reflecting on his journey, Dahunsi says, “I feel proud to call Marquette home. Coming from where I did, I don’t take these opportunities lightly. I’m truly grateful for the chance to maximize my potential here.”
As IEW celebrates the contributions of international students, Oluwaferanmi Dahunsi’s story exemplifies the richness that diverse experiences bring to campus, bridging cultures while fostering innovation and community.
