Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Natasha Kisila is a senior at John Cabot University. She is double majoring in Political Science and Communications. Natasha is very active in JCU’s student life, serving as Vice President of Student Government and President of the Black and African Student Association (BASA), as well as Residence Assistant for JCU Housing.
Tell us a bit about your background. How did you end up at JCU?
I wanted to pursue a degree in History with an American educational system, without having to move to the US. I thought Rome and history were a nice combination. On the very first day I changed my mind and switched my major to Political Science because it had many more diverse courses. I also added Communications as my second major to balance my academic side with my creative one.
You are an important part of JCU’s student life as a board member of BASA and Student Government, and as a Residence Assistant. Why did you join these clubs? How do you balance your extracurriculars with your studies?
I joined BASA in my first semester because it felt like a home away from home, and I didn’t have a lot of that. I’ve been on the board since my second year, first as treasurer, then as VP, with Skyla Katenga as president, and finally as president for my last year at JCU. I have an amazing team with me, which is why I’m able to balance everything. The same goes for Student Government and for my role as Residence Assistant.
We have many activities scheduled for Black History Month! We recently had our open mic night in the Tiber Cafe. It’s my favorite event of the semester. We kicked off the Spring 2026 semester with a mixer, which set the tone for the whole month. At the end of the semester, we’ll have the Living in the Diaspora event, as usual. We also plan on hosting a bead-making workshop organized with the Art and Design Club, a film screening with the Film Appreciation Club, salsa night with the Organization of Latin American Cultures (OLAC), and a collaboration with MUN (Model United Nations) to talk about Black and African diplomats in predominantly white spaces.
Student Government is the “love of my life.” But it’s also one of the biggest hurdles to climb. The main reason for joining SG was to help African students like me – be it for financial aid, academics, or simply making friends. It’s a lot of hard work, but I feel like we’ve managed to take some steps forward.For example, this semester our target is to promote mental health for people of color; we’ll have a session with the Mental Health and Counseling Office during the Living in the Diaspora event.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I really want to go home! I haven't been home for almost a year and a half, so I'm going home to be with my mom, and then we'll figure it out after that. I know an MA is definitely in the future, though. I want to study international law.
What would you say to a prospective student who might be worried about studying so far away from home?
I would say the same thing I’ve said to many of my fellow students who found themselves in front of a problem: just persevere. At first, I felt like the problems I encountered were impossible to deal with. I felt alienated because many of my peers didn't understand where I came from or my struggles. I felt like I was constantly explaining myself – be it in class or outside with friends. But eventually I found a community. You can find people who share your mindset, people who are willing to listen, and even if they don't know something, they're willing to learn. That community can be inside or even outside of JCU. Try to break the JCU barrier: there are many beautiful people and things in Rome that will help you get through everything.
So, get yourself out there and have positive people around you. You’ll never go wrong if you have a good support system.
