News Release
For Additional Information, Contact Jim Nelson/Media Relations
(304) 327-4103, jnelson@bluefieldstate.edu
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Bluefield State College student Sulayman “Saul” Njie (left) is pictured with U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller during Njie’s one month internship in the Senator’s office earlier this year. With his family’s experience in politics in The Gambia, Njie is very interested in the American political process. |
(Bluefield)—Sulayman “Saul” Njie’s interest in politics comes naturally—his uncle is a former Secretary of State and ambassador from The Gambia, and many members of his family are public officials in the West African country. As a sophomore at Bluefield State College, Njie has created opportunities to observe American politics “up close,” and he’s a particularly interested spectator as the November 4 general election rapidly approaches.
The 23-year old social science major arrived at Bluefield State College in January, 2007, after hearing about the college from a cousin who was attending BSC. “He talked to me about the friendly campus, the small community, and the academic programs here,” Njie explained. “I had received a diploma in law from a technical institute, probably the equivalent of a junior college, in The Gambia in 2006, but I wanted to learn more about politics, especially because of my family’s experience in the field.”
After completing the processes that preceded his enrollment, Njie began classes at BSC. “I didn’t know a lot of people at first,” he recalled. “I received advice and a lot of encouragement from (the late) Dr. (Patricia) Mulvey and Dr. (James) Voelker.” As he grew more acquainted with other members of the college community, Njie became more active in campus life.
“In April, I attended a Thurgood Marshall College Fund conference where I learned about internship positions in the United States Congress and I met Senator Jay Rockefeller.” Njie applied for a Senate internship and soon thereafter he talked to Senator Rockefeller again, this time at a political rally in Princeton. “Ultimately, I was awarded an internship and I spent one month this summer as an intern in Senator Rockefeller’s office,” he added.
While in the Nation’s Capitol, he gained a deeper appreciation for the work of the elected officials there. “The Senators are so committed to their work,” he recounted. “There is a significant amount of partisanship, but every member of the Senate works hard.” With the presidential election drawing nearer, Njie provides his perspective. “This is such an historic election,” he said. “The world sees the United States as a leader, an example-setter for the rest of the world. This is really an exciting time.”
Njie is among BSC’s busiest and most focused students. “Coming here has made me stronger,” he observed. “I work 60 hours a week off campus, then work 20 hours each week as a tutor at BSC while also carrying 18 semester hours.”
As he progresses toward a bachelor’s degree, his plans are taking shape. “After I receive my degree, I want to pursue my masters and work in the United States for a period of time, then return to Africa. My experience at Bluefield State College and in the community is very valuable and I will always be grateful for the opportunity,” he said.
October 31, 2008
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