International student shares virtual Malone experience

Carol Nakata ‘21 is currently attending Malone University fully online. Unable to return to the States due to the COIVID-19 pandemic, Nakata is continuing her academics from her home in Sao Paulo, Brazil. She is communicating with professors and her friends solely through Zoom or Google Meet meetings, allowing her to experience Malone in a whole new way. 

Nakata initially came to Malone after being offered a spot on the women's soccer team. 

“My love for the Malone community grew from there," she said. "I credit it all to centering myself in God and finding the people who stand beside me through thick and thin.”

At first, Nakata was nervous that she would not be included in classroom discussions or be forgotten by others, but she quickly discovered this would not be the case. Her professors have faithfully emailed her, checking up on her and including her in group discussions. Peers and friends wave to Carol when she joins the classroom through Zoom and she is thankful to feel connected, even in a different way for now.

“This semester has made me truly realize and appreciate the community of Malone University,” she said. “More than anything, I miss face-to-face interactions with everyone in the hallways,  classrooms, and the Caf. Those small moments have the power to make one feel connected with the community.”

One way Nakata has found to stay involved in real time is through her Student Senate role of Co-director of Multicultural Services. She has dedicated much of her time to utilizing social media to promote on-campus events even though she is unable to attend in-person herself. Virtually joining meetings with Multicultural Director, Brenda Stevens and Dean of Students Melody Scott helps Nakata continue to make a difference at Malone. 

“I particularly enjoyed the invitation to join a Board of Trustees meeting last fall where I shared my perspective on this unique experience,” she said. "I’m now in my final semester at Malone, and while disappointed to not be back on campus, I still want to  enjoy my Malone experience to the fullest.”