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Student Spotlight

Ryan Merkel, In Motion Staff Writer

Issue date: 5/1/09 Section: Features
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For many young people, they do not have the experience in witnessing foreign countries up close and personal, a key component of what builds Judith Obiero, Kenyan basketball player who moved from her native country to the United States in August 2007 to pursue something just a bit different.

It was her skills in Kenya in basketball that got her the attention of Daytona State College.

"I played basketball through High School in Uganda and went back to Kenya when I was finished." Interestingly, she got a letter upon coming back from Uganda, saying that the states wanted her to come to the states and play basketball at the college level. The proposition became even more promising with a small detail- all expenses paid, including a basketball scholarship.

Obiero believes it was her performance in a high profile tournament that earned her the attention of the school.

"I had a series of great games in that tournament but I think I am an average player. In the states the standards are much higher."

Obiero is very modest in her skills as a defensive player. "I don't like rejection, scared of it."

But Obiero has no hesitation complimenting her team. "I am very close with the team, and the coach is very nice."

Having only lived in the U.S. for just under two years, she found strong footing quickly having met one of her best friends within days of moving to the states. This close friend, Tonda Bruce, defends Obiero with confidence. "She keeps us on track, and we plan to keep in touch after school. She is like a big sister to me."

But Obiero has goals beyond that of a defensive basketball player. "I have this interest in acting and modeling that I plan on going after."

She still has family back in Kenya and when asked she would "love to go back and help the family out. We keep in contact a lot."

But ultimately, basketball is a side project. Obiero admits that though she loves basketball, it is the team she loves as well. "We are very close. I ask what's wrong and try to help."

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