Finding a future in logistics

When Ghanaian Yaw Owusu Adarkwah began looking for MBA programs, he knew he wanted more than a credential — he wanted a community that would support his goals and help him grow.

“My background is in facilities and estate management, and throughout my career, I’ve worked with both international and local organizations,” he said. “I decided to pursue an MBA because I want to grow in my career and take on leadership roles in a corporate setting. That’s why I chose Central Michigan University.”

Adarkwah heard about CMU from former students, connected with current ones on LinkedIn, and followed the College of Business Administration’s Instagram page before applying.

“I liked what I saw — especially the cultural diversity. People told me it’s a calm, quiet town, which is perfect for someone like me. I like peaceful environments where I can focus, and that really got me excited.”

He left his hometown in Ghana and arrived on campus in August of 2024, and immediately felt supported — by both official channels and the student community.

“CMU offers online information sessions before you arrive — about the visa process, what to expect, filling out forms, and all of that. I joined several of those. They also send helpful emails and let you register for bus pickup from the airport. It was all very well organized.”

Yaw believes that a blend of formal and informal support makes all the difference. “The formal support is excellent, but the informal support matters a lot too — friends can help you in ways that the university can’t always anticipate.”

A program that fits — perfectly

With a background in facilities management, Adarkwah sought a concentration that matched his goals.

“I couldn’t find one focused specifically on facilities, so I considered project management. But then someone asked me, ‘Does your role involve logistics?’ And I said, ‘Yes, it does.’ So I checked CMU again and saw the logistics concentration. It was perfect.”

Now well into the program, Adarkwah has found his courses to be both relevant and rewarding.

“My logistics courses have been amazing. Logistics back home is quite different from here, and my goal is to work internationally — in any environment.”

“The practical side of the program has been especially valuable. We’ve worked with real data — tracking routes, managing LTLs, full truckloads, and calculating the least-cost options for transportation.”

This hands-on experience builds directly on Adarkwah’s prior work with an international organization. “This work feels very familiar, but with a global lens. It’s not adjacent — it aligns perfectly with my background.”

From research to real-world connections

In addition to his courses, Adarkwah now serves as a graduate assistant supporting research with supply chain faculty.

“This semester, I also have a graduate assistantship with Dr. Kumar, helping him research supply chain interruptions. At first, I thought research would be boring — but this has been the opposite. It’s been really fun and enriching.”

"With big dreams and a clear direction, Yaw is chasing his goals with purpose — and the university is right there, cheering and guiding every step of the way,” said Associate Dean Sanjay Kumar. “As a Graduate Assistant working on a research project with me, he’s not only gaining knowledge but also actively contributing to it. His journey is just beginning, and it’s one we’re proud to support."

Outside of his GA position with Kumar, Adarkwah also appreciates how accessible the faculty have been. “The faculty is awesome. You just need to know the process — write an email or get on their calendar, and they’re happy to meet with you.”

Coming from a different cultural background, those small interactions have left a big impression.

“Pam, our MBA advisor, always checks in. After our meetings, she’ll ask, ‘How’s the snow? Are you adjusting? Are you warm enough?’” he said. “Kari Yerington is another one; her door is always open, and she never misses the opportunity to have a chat with me, even if it's in the hallways. That level of care is amazing.”

A place that feels like home

Adarkwah has found a supportive community at CMU, both through international student networks and casual campus connections.

“If you approach people honestly and respectfully, they’re usually willing to help — whether it’s faculty, local students, or other international students.”

He’ll be interning this summer with Interlochen Arts Camp in the Traverse City area, supporting their staffing and management team — a role that perfectly complements his interests in logistics and facilities.

And while he dreams of working internationally, Mount Pleasant has carved out a special place in his heart.

“I come from a quiet, friendly community, and Mount Pleasant reminds me of home. If I had the opportunity to stay here, I would. I’d vacation elsewhere, sure — but I’d make a life here.”

When asked what advice he’d offer to future international students, Adarkwah doesn’t hesitate.

“Come prepared to learn — not just to study. Learn from the books, yes, but also from the people and the community around you.”