Prospa a Farrin: Lessons for Jamaican Scholars!

Prospa a Farrin: Lessons for Jamaican Scholars

As September 2025 approaches, a new cohort of Jamaican scholars prepares to embark on academic journeys to the United States. This transition, brimming with opportunity, also presents significant challenges—political uncertainty, cultural adaptation, and personal resilience among them. In these times, wisdom from the past can illuminate the path ahead. The biblical account of Daniel and his companions provides timeless lessons for thriving in foreign lands. So too does the life of my own mentor, Dr Alfred Sangster—Shackster Dangster to me (and Winston Bennett, my best pal from Olivet days)—whose unwavering faith, intellectual rigour, and pragmatic approach to leadership shaped generations of Caribbean scholars and thinkers.

Embracing Your Identity While Adapting to Change

When Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were taken to Babylon, they were expected to assimilate fully into a new culture—new names, new education, new customs. Yet, while they adapted, they did not surrender their core identity. Similarly, as international students, you will encounter cultural differences, academic expectations, and social norms that may challenge your sense of self.

Practical Advice:

• Learn the local customs, engage with diverse communities, and appreciate the unique aspects of American culture.

• Maintain and celebrate your heritage. Stay connected with fellow Jamaicans and people who share your values.

• Stand firm in your moral and spiritual convictions, even as you broaden your perspective.

Spiritual Reflection: Daniel’s quiet but firm refusal to compromise his dietary laws (Daniel 1:8-16) demonstrated that identity is not about external conformity but internal steadfastness. Likewise, you must discern where adaptation enhances growth and where compromise erodes values. Be confident in your faith and heritage as you navigate this new phase of life.

Excelling Both Academically and Spiritually

Daniel and his friends were not merely passive participants in Babylonian society; they distinguished themselves through excellence. Their wisdom and understanding surpassed that of their peers (Daniel 1:19-20). This speaks to the balance every student must strike—academic success without sacrificing spiritual and personal integrity.

Practical Advice:

• Develop disciplined study habits and take advantage of academic resources such as libraries, mentorship, and research opportunities.

• Seek spiritual nourishment by connecting with a faith-based community on campus.

• Pursue wisdom beyond textbooks—engage in deep discussions, read widely, and apply critical thinking to both your studies and life.

  
  

Spiritual Reflection:Daniel’s wisdom was not solely intellectual; it was also rooted in divine insight (Daniel 2:17-19). In an era of shifting policies and uncertain futures, remember that true wisdom comes from God. Seek Him in prayer, and let His guidance shape both your academic pursuits and personal decisions.

Standing Firm in Your Convictions

One of the most powerful biblical accounts is that of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace. Faced with the threat of death, they refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image, declaring their faith in God regardless of the outcome (Daniel 3:17-18). Their courage was not conditional on deliverance; it was anchored in unwavering belief.

Practical Advice:

• Expect challenges to your beliefs and values. Whether through peer pressure, ethical dilemmas, or cultural differences, stand firm in what you know to be right.

• Surround yourself with supportive people who respect your convictions.

• Recognise that resilience is a muscle—exercise it daily by making principled decisions, no matter how small.

Spiritual Reflection:Like Daniel’s friends, you may face trials that test your faith. Theirs was a faith that said, “Even if not, we will not bow.” Your university experience will present moments of uncertainty, but remember that God’s presence is not limited by geography. He is with you in every classroom, dormitory, and library.

Building Meaningful Relationships

Daniel’s ability to navigate Babylonian society was enhanced by the relationships he built. He gained the trust of rulers and found strength in the companionship of his friends. Strong, authentic relationships are vital to a thriving student experience.

Practical Advice:

• Be intentional about forming friendships across cultures. Learn from others, but also share your Jamaican heritage.

• Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, whether academically, professionally, or spiritually.

• Avoid isolation. Engage in extracurricular activities, faith groups, and service opportunities.

Spiritual Reflection:Daniel’s interactions were marked by respect, wisdom, and a commitment to truth (Daniel 2:27-28). Approach every relationship with humility, integrity, and a willingness to learn. Your impact in a new environment will be measured not just by what you achieve, but by the lives you touch.

Trusting in God’s Sovereign Plan

Despite the uncertainties of studying in a politically charged climate, the core truth remains: God is sovereign. Daniel’s life, filled with both adversity and triumph, testifies to this reality. God did not remove Daniel from challenges; He empowered him to navigate them with wisdom and courage.

Practical Advice:

• Expect change. Policies, circumstances, and challenges will shift, but adaptability is a crucial skill.

• Plan wisely but hold your future with open hands. Rigid expectations can lead to disappointment, but a heart surrendered to God finds peace amid uncertainty.

• Remember that setbacks are not failures. They are detours, often leading to unforeseen opportunities.

Spiritual Reflection:Daniel’s entire life was a demonstration of divine providence. From captivity to the king’s court, God’s hand was evident. Likewise, trust that God is working through every challenge, opening doors you may not yet see.

A Tribute to Dr Alfred Sangster

In reflecting on these principles, I am compelled to honour my lifelong mentor, Dr Alfred Sangster. His impact on Caribbean students through IFES, IVCF, ISCF, and SCF is immeasurable. Though I never attended an institution he led, his influence on my life was profound. From my teenage years to my sixth decade, I sought his wise counsel on both personal and technical matters.

Dr Sangster embodied Daniel-like qualities—shrewd yet compassionate, intellectually rigorous yet deeply spiritual. He navigated challenges with a spirit of excellence, never compromising his faith. If ever there was a blueprint for thriving in an unfamiliar landscape, it was found in his example. As you prepare for your academic journey, may his legacy remind you that faith and intellect are not opposing forces but complementary strengths.

Conclusion: A Call to Courage and Faith

Dear scholars, your journey to the USA is not merely an academic transition; it is a divine assignment. Like Daniel, you are called to navigate foreign landscapes with wisdom, integrity, and resilience. Adapt, but do not compromise. Excel, but do not forget the Source of true wisdom. Stand firm, but do not stand alone. Trust, but do not be passive.

May your time abroad be marked by courage, faith, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. And may your story, like Daniel’s—and like Dr Sangster’s—be one that inspires generations to come.

And never forget the very last line of the A-QuEST Pledge "to die a Patriot"

by Dennis A. Minott, PhD, A-Q.

February 25, 2025