Interview with Vanessa Anyanso: Experiences of a Nigerian-American Woman in Higher Education

In honor of International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the voices of trailblazing women in academia. Today, we’re spotlighting Vanessa Anyanso, a Nigerian-American PhD candidate in counseling psychology. Through her research and lived experiences, Vanessa is challenging systemic barriers, amplifying marginalized voices, and inspiring the next generation of women of color in academia.

What inspired you to pursue a PhD, and what is your field of study?

“I’m pursuing a PhD in counseling psychology,” Vanessa shares. “It’s a decision rooted in my fascination with mental health and psychology since college.” She explains that while she’s always wanted to help people directly through therapy, she became especially drawn to psychological research. “I wanted to answer all these questions about race, culture, and well-being. Counseling psychology allows me to blend my passion for helping others with exploring these critical intersections of identity and mental health.”

What challenges have you faced as an African-American woman in academia?

“Grad school has been one of the toughest spaces to navigate as a Black woman,” Vanessa says. “While I’ve always been used to being one of the few Black faces in a room, academia amplified those feelings.” She recalls moments when she felt like she had to justify her work or perspectives more than her white peers, which she describes as “extremely discouraging.” On top of that, when she sought support or voiced her concerns, she often experienced gaslighting, which left her doubting herself.

Thankfully, she found a way to navigate these challenges. “Connecting with a network of other Black women in academia has been a godsend,” Vanessa says. “They’ve been my rock, providing guidance, validation, and community.”

How has your cultural identity shaped your academic journey and research focus?

“My identity as a Nigerian-American woman is central to everything I do,” Vanessa says. “It influences how I see the world, how the world interacts with me, and, ultimately, my research focus.”

Vanessa’s work centers on Black communities, especially those with intersecting marginalized identities, such as Black women, immigrants, and queer individuals. “Black people are often overlooked within psychology research, and those with other marginalized identities are even more ignored,” she explains. “I’m committed to making sure they’re at the forefront of my studies.”

What role have mentors or role models played in your pursuit of higher education?

“EVERYTHING,” Vanessa says emphatically. “I literally would not be here without the people who poured into me.”

She shares how her undergraduate experience in Dr. Valerie Purdie-Greenaway’s lab introduced her to research. “Dr. Purdie-Greenaway encouraged me to pursue a PhD when I was only thinking about getting a master’s degree,” Vanessa recalls. She also highlights the guidance she received from Dr. Kate Turetsky, a grad student at the time. “Kate mentored me through my first academic conference and answered all my questions about grad school. Both of them still make time to support me as I navigate grad school today.”

What changes have you seen in academia regarding diversity and inclusion during your time as a student?

“This is such an interesting question, especially with the current climate around DEI,” Vanessa notes. “With some universities rolling back their inclusion initiatives, it’s hard to say across the board. But I will say that the institutions that genuinely care about these issues continue to prioritize them.”

Vanessa stresses that more work is needed. “Across the board, institutions need to do more—not just in admitting underrepresented students but in meaningfully supporting them once they’re there.”

How do you balance the demands of pursuing a PhD with other aspects of your life?

“I’m still trying to figure it out,” Vanessa admits. “I really do wish I had more time for myself.” However, she’s found ways to create balance. “For me, maintaining relationships with friends and family is just as important—sometimes even more important—than my actual work.”

Vanessa also makes it a point to unplug and take breaks. “I don’t do any work on Friday evenings or Saturdays, and I try to take some weeknights off too. And I make sure to move my body at least once a day, whether it’s working out or something small. Those little things help keep me grounded.”

What advice would you give to young women of color aspiring to pursue advanced degrees?

“Find your community!” Vanessa says without hesitation. “Grad school is incredibly draining, and you NEED to be surrounded by people who pour into you to make it through.”

She encourages aspiring scholars to seek out other students—whether in their field or not—who can offer support, encouragement, and solidarity. “Your community will keep you going when things get tough.”

Conclusion

Vanessa Anyanso’s journey reminds us of the power of resilience, community, and the importance of representation in academia. As we continue celebrating women like Vanessa this International Women’s Day, let’s reflect on the work that still needs to be done to make higher education more inclusive and equitable.

To aspiring women of color: your voice, perspective, and contributions are not only needed—they are transformative.

Who are the women inspiring you this International Women’s Day? Join the conversation by sharing their stories and celebrating the power of diversity in every field!