Today we’d like to introduce you to Abolaji Obileye.
Hi Abolaji, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am a first-generation international student from Nigeria who moved to the United States in the Fall of 2022 to pursue a Ph.D. in Sociology at Western Michigan University. Like many international students, adjusting to a new country came with its share of challenges, and I had to quickly learn how to navigate the American education system, immigration processes, finances, and everyday life largely on my own. Along the way, I documented my journey online, sharing both the highs and the struggles in hopes of helping others who might be on a similar path.
A major turning point came when I received my EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW), which allowed me to obtain my U.S. permanent residency. That opportunity opened new doors, including the chance to serve in the Michigan Army National Guard as a 92A Automated Logistical Specialist. My experiences also inspired me to found CRISTAM LLC and the CRISTAM Foundation, organizations dedicated to helping new international students settle into life in America. Through these initiatives, we have been able to provide household essentials, connect students with resources, and ease the transition for countless individuals starting a new chapter in the United States. Looking back, my journey has been one of resilience, continuous learning, and a commitment to creating opportunities for others as I continue building my own.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all. Moving to a new country is exciting, but it also comes with challenges that many people never see. For international students, especially those coming to the U.S. for the first time, there is a lot to unlearn, relearn and adapt to because of the cultural differences that shape everyday life and opportunities in America.
When I arrived from Nigeria in 2022, I had just $100 that had been generously gifted to me by the Odubanjo family. It was also my first time ever boarding a plane. With that small amount of money, I had to figure out transportation, buy a SIM card, pay for food, and begin navigating life in an unfamiliar country. Thankfully, the Bergren family welcomed me into their home, provided meals, gave me rides, and helped me get on my feet before I was able to move into my own apartment. Their kindness made what could have been an overwhelming experience much more manageable.
Even then, there were many lessons I had to learn the hard way. Understanding the American credit system was one of them. Like many newcomers, I applied for several credit cards without fully understanding how hard inquiries could affect my credit history. It was a mistake, but it became a valuable lesson that I now share with other international students so they can avoid making the same one.
Another challenge was finding a sense of belonging. I grew up in a culture that is deeply communal, while American society tends to be much more individualistic. Adjusting to that difference was difficult at first, and there were moments of loneliness. Fortunately, I found incredible people along the way—friends like Reen, Dael, Mark, Deli, and the Hawthorne Boys—who became a support system and made America begin to feel like home.
Looking back, those struggles shaped who I am today. They taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of helping others. In many ways, those experiences are what inspired me to start CRISTAM, so that new international students can have an easier transition than I did and know they do not have to navigate the journey alone.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I share my stories online to inspire, educate, and encourage people who are navigating life away from home. My work centers on the lived experience of leaving one home to build another in a foreign land—the challenges, victories, lessons, and everyday realities that come with starting over. Through storytelling, I strive to help others feel seen, understood, and empowered.
I am known for being kind, respectful, approachable, and genuinely committed to supporting the people I meet. Whether through my content, my community work, or my personal interactions, I aim to leave people better than I found them.
One of my proudest accomplishments is how far I have come since arriving in the United States. Earning a U.S. permanent resident status through recognition of my intellectual contributions is something I deeply value, as it reflects years of dedication to research, scholarship, and service. I am also the author of two books and several peer-reviewed journal publications, all of which have contributed to my journey and growth.
What sets me apart is my perspective on life. I have never believed success is a zero-sum game. I firmly believe that every person has the potential to soar without diminishing someone else’s opportunity to do the same. That philosophy shapes everything I create and every community I hope to build.
If I had to describe myself in one sentence, I would say I am an artist who paints with words, ideas, and audio-visual storytelling—using each story to connect people, inspire hope, and remind others that even the most unfamiliar journeys can lead to extraordinary destinations.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was a calm, easygoing, and cheerful child who enjoyed being around people. I was naturally curious, playful, and well-coordinated, and I always found joy in both academics and extracurricular activities. Sports, especially football (soccer), were a huge part of my childhood. I loved watching the game just as much as I loved playing it, and as a young boy in primary school, I was very athletic and known for my speed as a runner.
As I got older, my passion for sports became so strong that it almost came at the expense of my academic performance. Thankfully, my parents noticed the shift early and stepped in with structure and discipline. They introduced mandatory daily study sessions, limited my outdoor activities, and closely monitored my progress. At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate those decisions, but looking back, they played a significant role in shaping the person I am today by teaching me the importance of balance, discipline, and hard work.
Although my priorities evolved over the years, my love for sports and the arts has never faded. I still enjoy following football, staying active, and expressing my creativity in different ways. Those childhood interests continue to influence who I am today and remind me of the importance of pursuing both passion and purpose.
Pricing:
- Most of the support provided through CRISTAM Foundation is offered free of charge to international students. Any future paid services or membership offerings will be communicated through our official platforms.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cristam.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beejay_diaries
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abolajiobileye
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abolajiobileye/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@beejay_diaries
