Kamva Notshulwana
Born in New Jersey and raised in South Africa, Kamva Notshulwana grew up watching American television and other media. When it came time to apply to college, he knew he wanted to return to the U.S. Now, the sophomore is exploring his own cultural journey via a global studies major. With his degree and experience, he hopes to teach and spread philanthropy around the world.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Can you share a little bit about yourself?
I was born in New Jersey, but I grew up in South Africa, where I lived for 11 years. My mom is American, and my dad is South African. When I lived in South Africa, we watched a lot of American media, like TV and YouTube videos, so I was excited to come back to the U.S. for college and experience American culture again.
Now that I’m here, exploring a different side of my heritage, it’s been fun.
How did you choose Georgia State?
I was drawn to Georgia State for the affordable tuition and the campus’ location in downtown Atlanta. I like that it’s in the city and so demographically diverse.
Why did you choose global studies as your major, and what do you hope to do after graduation?
Global studies encompassed all my interests in politics, geography, culture, international affairs, language and helping people through philanthropy.
I’m still trying to figure out how I’ll use my degree in my career, but I know I want to help people in some way — maybe as a diplomat or as part of a nonprofit organization. I also want to earn a certificate in teaching English as a foreign language. Hopefully I’ll be able to teach students English, either abroad or online.
How has Georgia State guided you in your journey?
At Georgia State, there are so many facilities and programs to prepare me for what I want to do in life. And they have certificates to give me the qualifications that I’m going to need. The environment has created a place for me to interact with a lot of open-minded people.
What do you like most about being at Georgia State?
The people are what make it fun. It’s a diverse campus in terms of students’ majors, perspectives and interests. Everyone is always very friendly and willing to engage and talk. I meet a lot of people who are different from me.
What impact do you hope to leave on the world?
I want to leave a positive impact, helping people to find more love, happiness and self-assurance in their lives.
Do you have any advice for future GSU students?
I’d advise students to be politically active and socially conscious. I believe that the world is getting very tense, and we should take action to do what we believe in and to make what we believe a reality.
I also encourage everyone to put themselves out there. Do as many new things as possible. Get out of your comfort zone. Meet new people. Talk, debate, chat and don’t be afraid to change. Don’t be afraid to even change your major if you don’t like it. Life’s a journey.
