Solomon Adekunle grew up in Ibadan, Nigeria, in a large family compound. In his father’s generation, it was common for men to have multiple wives and many children. Despite the size of his family, he remembers the closeness of that environment—sharing meals together, attending events as a group, and growing up with family as a central part of everyday life.
In 1982, Dr. Adekunle immigrated to the United States after receiving a Nigerian government scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in pharmacology at Boston University. One of the most immediate adjustments was the climate; the cold New England weather was a stark contrast to Nigeria’s warmth, and during his first few months he found it difficult to enjoy his new surroundings. Over time, however, he came to appreciate the quality of his education and the opportunities provided by his university.
Dr. Adekunle was the first member of his immediate family to immigrate to the United States. His family did not express concern about his departure, as they had not heard of conditions in the United States that would make them fear for his safety. After completing his education, his career led him to several places across the country, including Pittsburgh, Delaware, and eventually New Orleans, where he now works as a professor.
Despite building a successful professional life in the United States, Dr. Adekunle still feels a strong connection to Nigeria. He notes that if he could, he would return to Nigeria today, illustrating the strong attachment many immigrants continue to feel toward their home country even after building lives abroad.

– SO

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant