International senior nursing student Jachimike Peter-Afunanya has learned that leadership, like nursing, is rooted in listening, compassion and intentional action. Born in Nigeria and now studying at Kent State University, she brings those values to her role as the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) Senator for the College of Nursing, where she advocates for her peers and works to create a supportive student environment.
“As a senator for the college, I represent nursing students’ voices to USG,” Peter-Afunanya said. I advocate for their needs and create opportunities that connect them with university resources and student life. My goal is to make sure nursing students feel seen, supported and engaged, both inside and outside of the college, since the program can be very stressful.”
In her student government role, Peter-Afunanya focuses on student advocacy, engagement and student wellness. She holds office hours twice a week to meet with students, listen to their experiences, and bring their concerns to the attention of faculty and USG leadership.
“We work with faculty and the associate dean to help bridge the gap and facilitate conversations between students and college leadership,” Peter-Afunanya said.
Another key responsibility of her position is coordinating the Students First Funding Requests, a USG initiative that allows senators to secure funding for student-focused events. These funds support necessities such as food, decorations or flyers. Peter-Afunanya also leads a small Senatorial Committee within the College of Nursing that assists with planning and executing these events.
“I lead initiatives to help channel student engagement and support different missions,” Peter-Afunanya said. “We plan wellness and appreciation events for students, and we want to make sure the college feels involved and connected.”
Beyond her senatorial duties, Peter-Afunanya serves on a USG committee dedicated to mental health and student well-being. Through this work, she helps plan initiatives that give students spaces to relax, connect, and care for themselves during demanding academic semesters.
Her experiences as a nursing student also shape her leadership approach. One moment during her clinical rotations stands out as especially meaningful.
“I had a patient who really opened up to me, and it reminded me why I chose nursing in the first place by listening and making someone feel safe. It stuck with me because it made everything we studied feel real and meaningful,” she said.
Peter-Afunanya says her nursing education and leadership roles are closely connected.
“As a nursing major, we have a lot of clinicals, and you have to trust yourself, follow your instincts and apply what you’ve learned in class,” Peter-Afunanya said. “USG is similar because it teaches you how to lead, advocate, and take responsibility for yourself and others.”
Outside of student government, Peter-Afunanya is highly involved in campus life. She works at the Academic Success Center, where she tutors students in microbiology, chemistry and anatomy. She is active in several student organizations, including the Kent African Students Association, where she previously served as treasurer, Nigerians in Kent, the Catholic Student Association and the Kent State University Student Nurses’ Association (KSU-SNA).
Each organization provides Peter-Afunanya with a strong community connection, particularly as an international student.
“Presenting at SNA or hosting events made me realize how much I enjoy bringing people together and creating spaces where students feel supported and heard,” Peter-Afunanya said.
When she is not balancing academics and leadership responsibilities, Peter-Afunanya enjoys being creative, spending time with her friends and staying connected to her community.
“Those things keep me grounded,” Peter-Afunanya said.
As she prepares to graduate, Peter-Afunanya continues to approach both her studies and leadership with the same care she hopes to bring to her future nursing career, thoughtful, attentive, and focused on helping others succeed.
“Becoming the College of Nursing Senator has been a big part of my growth,” Peter-Afunanya said. “Balancing leadership, communication, and advocacy has pushed me to put myself out there. Moving to a new country for school was a huge adjustment, but it challenged me to grow, adapt quickly and build my own community here.”
