From: AFRICAN GRADUATE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION AT CORNELL
Date: February 3
Subject: AfriGA February Newsletter



February Newsletter 

Hello AfriGA community,

As the Spring semester settles in, we hope February finds you well. This month’s newsletter highlights upcoming events, a student spotlight, and opportunities to stay engaged and supported throughout the semester.

Upcoming Events

Conversation Series: Pizzas with Prof. Sophie Oldfield

Friday, February 6
4:00pm - 7:00pm


Add to Google Cal,Outlook

This session, in collaboration with the Institute of African Development (IAD) at Cornell, begins our conversations series with African Professors on campus.
RSVP
Afrobeats Night
Saturday, February 14
5:00pm - 11:00pm


Add to Google Cal,Outlook


Join the African Graduate Student Association on Valentine's Day for an evening of music, dancing, and fun vibes
RSVP

Announcements & Collaborations

  • We Want to Get to Know You!

    To help us better understand our members and how best yo serve you this year, please take 5 minutes to complete this short survey.
    Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete it. Your voice is essential to building a stronger AfriGA community this year.

  • Save the Date! AfriGA’s signature event in collaboration with other campus partners is underway. This Summit will bring together dialogue, leadership, and innovation centered on Africa’s global role. Speaker announcements and program highlights will be shared soon.
              Date: April 10th 2026
  • Black History Month – Campus Event

    Lecture: Black Women, History, and Human Rights
    Cornell will host historian Keisha N. Blain for a Black History Month lecture examining the role of Black women in global human rights movements and historical change.
    February 11th @Startler Hall Room 196

    Learn more via Cornell News

Opportunities & Resources

♢ IAD Digital Narratives Competition
The Institute for African Development (IAD) invites multimedia submissions highlighting lived  experiences, academic research, or explorations connected to Africa.
Prize: $500 for winning entry
Format: 3-6 minute digital video or documentary (landscape)
Eligibility: Open to all Cornell students
Deadline: February 10, 2026
Submission: Email entries to jsb25@cornell.edu or submit via Dropbox

♢ Beyond the H-1B: Preparing for Work Visa Alternatives
Thursday, February 19 | 5:30pm - 6:30pm | Online Event
This workshop, recorded by the Cornell Career Services Website, aims to help students adapt to ongoing policy changes by preparing for H-1B alternatives and will feature immigration attorneys. Sign up here

Free Academic Resources

♢ Cornell Student Perks 
Cornell provides free and discounted tools that can make graduate life easier, including academic software, fitness oaccess, and cultural discounts. 
View student perks & discounts.

♢ Funding, Access & Emergency Support

Support is available for conference travel, research expenses, and unexpected financial needs.  Explore funding & emergency support options.

♢ Community Shout-Outs & Spotlights

From dissertation defenses and publications to internships, presentations, and personal wins, AfriGA celebrates you. If you have announcements, resources, or milestones to share, please send them our way. afrigacornell@gmail.com 

♢ Immigration, Careers & Planning Ahead

Immigration planning, careers and internships are key parts of the graduate experience. Explore Cornell immigration, advising and career resources

♢ Campus Life, Wellness & Support

Graduate school can be demanding, but Cornell offers programs and resources to support mental health, well-being, and community connection. If you ever feel overwhelmed, support is available. Explore wellness and support resources

♢ Taxes & Federal Updates (Looking Ahead)

Tax filing season is approaching, especially for international students. To prepare for filing, attend a Sprintax information session for Cornell international students. Register to attend a virtual session on March 12 (5:00 PM ET)

Tax information for international students; Federal Transition Weekly Update

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT!

“AfriGA member of the Month”

Name: Timi Sanni

Country: Nigeria

Course and Department: Creative Writing, Department of Literatures in English.

How would you describe yourself in three words: inquisitive, intentional, & (slightly) over-prepared.

Favorite thing about Cornell and/or Ithaca: The sight from the Libe slope at sunset.

Favorite AfriGA moment: The Thanksgiving party—lots of people. Also, the jollof!

Fun fact about you: I've never lost a fight against a grizzly bear.

What advice would you give someone just starting out at Cornell: Balance academics with self-care, build community, and make use of the campus resources.

Want to be featured or nominate someone?

Email us at afrigacornell@gmail.com

Recent Highlights

Welcome Event and AFCON Finale
We kicked off the semester in grand style with food, community, & the AFCON Final. Congratulations to the African Champions, Senegal!


Get Involved with AfriGA
AfriGA is powered by the enthusiasm and dedication of its members. We're always looking for volunteers to help with initiatives and for those interested in leadership roles. Whether you want to share your skills, gain new experiences, or connect more with the community, there’s a place for you.

Interested? Reach out to any executive member or email us at 
afrigacornell@gmail.com 


Stay Connected

Instagram: @afrigacornell

LinkedIn: AfriGA Cornell

Gmail: afrigacornell@gmail.com 

Thank you for being a part of the AfriGA community. We look forward to seeing you this semester.

AfriGA Executive Board