The Otterbein experience brings students together from all around the world. At the core of that experience is the ability to communicate together, whether students are from North America, South America, Africa, Asia, Europe or simply Columbus, Ohio.

Diversity can be found everywhere in Otterbein’s communication department.

Communication studies major and accounting minor Iman Sahaag grew up and was raised in Toronto, Canada, yet was born in Nairobi, Kenya. She’s one of dozens of students with an international background that studies communication at Otterbein.

“I personally have always liked smaller schools so finding an atmosphere where I was able to get to know my professors on a personal level in smaller classrooms is personally why I chose Otterbein,” Sahaag says. “I have gotten exactly that.”

Being a first-generation college student, Sahaag participates in many activities on campus and is involved in clubs that pertain to her communication major. She is a member of the African American Student Union, International Club, and Phi Kappa Delta Speech and Debate Fraternity.

Sahaag cites communication professors Susan Millsap and Nichelle McNabb as major influencers in her life.

“Dr. Millsap has helped me tremendously in finding my passions and my voice. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be a part of Phi Kappa Delta,” Sahaag says. “And Dr. McNabb made me realize my love for politics and because of that I want to further my education by earning my masters and law degrees. If it wasn’t for these professors, I wouldn’t have known what I truly wanted to do in life.”

Professor Millsap has only known Sahaag a short time but sees a compassionate, kind, helpful student.

“On the speech and debate teams she works hard to improve her skills and willingly helps others with feedback and ideas that help them improve as well,” Millsap says. “She has a passion for excellence in herself and in what she can do for others.”

Otterbein health communication and public health student Atsoupe Tchakou is working to earn her degree so that she can eventually help communities stay healthy and safe. Tchakou was born in Togo, Africa, and eventually wants to move back to Togo.

Tchakou loves the family dynamic in Togo, which doesn’t just mean immediate family. She says in Togo everyone is surrounded by cousins, uncles, aunts, grandparents, in addition to your immediate family.  

“I like what I’m learning here is how the primary goal is to keep the community healthy, not just to take care of sick people,” said Tchakou.

Other students in communication classes this semester alone have roots in South Africa, Brazil and Eritrea.

Otterbein International Admissions Coordinator Jenny Seymour says Otterbein is a great fit for both international students or students already living in Ohio with an international background.

“Being a Liberal Arts college, Otterbein possesses many quality traits that set it apart from the rest,” Seymour says. “We provide a lot of support for our students no matter where they come from.”