Mlen-Too Wesley’s journey from a refugee child to an MIT graduate student is a testament to the power of education and determination. He plans to return to Liberia after completing his master’s degree and focus on international development, aiming to lead a data-focused organization that improves the lives of people in Liberia and the United States.
News Article: From Refugee to MIT Graduate Student
By Marisa Demers, MIT Open Learning
Publication Date: December 3, 2024
Mlen-Too Wesley’s journey from a refugee child to an MIT graduate student is a testament to the power of education and determination. As a child, he was forced to flee Liberia due to a civil war that displaced approximately 750,000 people and starved countless more.
International Initiatives
Developing Countries
Health
Health Care
Policy
Poverty
Research
Wesley’s experience has shaped his life and career. He plans to return to Liberia after completing his master’s degree and focus on international development. His goal is to lead a data-focused organization that improves the lives of people in Liberia and the United States.
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Credits
Photo courtesy of Mlen-Too Wesley.
Wesley’s story is a reminder that education can be a powerful tool for change. His journey from refugee to MIT graduate student is a testament to the power of determination and hard work.
From Refugee to MIT Graduate Student: Mlen-Too Wesley’s Journey
Background
Early Life and Challenges
Wesley was just 4 years old when he and his family fled Liberia due to the country’s 14-year civil war. The conflict resulted in the loss of approximately 200,000 lives, displacement of about 750,000 people, and widespread starvation. Despite facing such hardships, Wesley’s grandmother told him that he would enjoy a meal during their flight, which left an indelible mark on his life.
Education and Career
Wesley initially struggled with quantitative coursework in the MITx MicroMasters program in Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP). However, he persevered and eventually earned his MicroMasters credential in June 2023. His persistence paid off as he was also admitted into the MIT DEDP master’s program.
Passion for Artificial Intelligence
The rigorous mathematics and statistics classes in the program sparked Wesley’s passion for artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning and natural language processing. He aims to use these tools to analyze national development plans over time and among different countries to determine if policymakers are recycling the same words and goals.
Commitment to Empowering Liberia
Reflections on Education
Wesley’s journey highlights the importance of education in overcoming personal challenges and making a positive impact on society. He emphasizes that education should not be limited to academic experiences but also provide practical tools and frameworks to analyze personal experiences.
Conclusion
Mlen-Too Wesley’s story serves as an inspiration to individuals facing adversity, demonstrating that with determination and access to quality education, anyone can achieve their goals and make a difference in the world. His commitment to empowering Liberia through economic growth is a testament to the power of education in creating meaningful change.
- mit.edu | From refugee to MIT graduate student
