‘You Are Helping Students:’ UNL Student Nyasha Chihonde Shares Impact Of Scholarship

By Noah Johnson

When Nyasha Chihonde emigrated from Africa to the United States in 2024, he wasn’t sure what his future would hold.

At the time, he was working in roles centered around animal production with small-scale dairy farmers. Chihonde began applying for jobs but was encouraged by a friend enrolled at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to consider applying to the school.

He began his first semester that fall but was faced with a challenge. Tuition and fees felt insurmountable, and Chihonde was left considering what he would do if he couldn’t continue his education at UNL.

Chihonde left his studies for a short time in 2024, unsure if he would be able to return to continue his education at the university.  

Through a scholarship funded by the N Fund – College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Chihonde was presented with a life-changing solution that would allow him to return to UNL in 2025.

Today, Chihonde is thriving as a student. In addition to the scholarship support he received, Chihonde has been welcomed by students within the UNL community.

“It’s a great community,” he said. “At first, I was overwhelmed by the environment, but I had some people who reached out and showed me around and connected me. It’s been great, and I’ve really appreciated it.”

Chihonde is currently studying animal science at the university. He hopes to use the degree to focus on the animal industry. He added that this opportunity would not have been possible without support from the N Fund – CASNR Scholarships.

“These scholarships provide a great opportunity for students like me who have been struggling with tuition,” he said. “I want to extend my gratitude toward those who have supported this fund. You are helping students.”