Ghana to Gainesville: Polk State sets student on path to success

Theresa Aba Ackon’s venture to Polk State College spanned more than 5,500 miles. In less than two years on campus, however, Ackon has undoubtedly left her mark.

A native of Ghana, Ackon is slated to graduate with her Associate in Arts (AA) degree in December. She’s been accepted to the University of Florida where she will begin studying in January.

“During my time at Polk State College, I have developed both personally and academically,” she said. “I have developed good time management skills and organizational skills. I have learned how to balance my coursework with my extracurricular activities.”

Although her parents, Nana Kofi Arhin and Beatrice Amissah Acquaah, had already made their trek to Florida, Ackon remained in Ghana until she completed her high school diploma from Wesley Girls School in 2020.

“My dad completed his AA in accounting from Polk State College and spoke highly of the College,” Akcon said. “He then advised me to apply. My dad became an accounting tutor here at Polk State.”

She applied to Polk State in 2022 before ultimately enrolling for the Fall 2023 Semester. Helping her with the process was Vivian Yakpo-Newton, a Success Coach as well as a Ghana native.

“She was very shy and coming to a new country not knowing anyone, she started working with me to onboard at Polk State College,” Yakpo-Newton said. “Our relationship started slowly, but it’s blossomed into her working in my office as a student worker now.”

The advice given to Ackon was to get involved at the College beyond her classes and academics to ensure the utmost enriching experience. She’s been a member of the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP), STEM Club, and the International Circle Club. Ackon now serves as a work-study student for the College’s Success Coaches.

“I am so proud because I’ve watched her journey from when she arrived on campus to all the things she’s done,” Yakpo-Newton exclaimed. “When she told me she wanted to do her application (to the University of Florida), we did it in my office and immediately (when) we got the acceptance letter, I printed it and put it on my board because I was so happy for her. I know she’ll do well at UF.”

During the Spring 2024 Semester, Ackon had the opportunity to display her research and answer questions during the LSAMP Showcase on both the Winter Haven and Lakeland campuses. Ackon conducted research on two topics – how sleep, or lack thereof, affects female college students and more effective ways for Polk State students to find their classrooms.

“As I get set to graduate, I’m most proud of my research project on sleep,” Ackon explained. “I’m also proud that I got to be a work study with the success coaches – Miss Miriam (Lopez), Miss Vivian, and Miss Keila (Febo). Seeing what they do behind the scenes is an amazing experience.”

As Ackon transitions to the University of Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology, her goal is to become a doctor.

“I want to be a doctor because I am passionate about treating people and making a tangible change in people’s lives,” Ackon said. “Additionally, I want to know more about the medical field and possibly end up finding outside discovery in the medical field.

“I chose the University of Florida for its excellent reputation,” she added. “It’s known for its excellent resources. Its environment will align with my educational pathway.”

According to U.S. News & World Report, the University of Florida ranks No. 7 on the list of top public colleges and universities in the nation. Ackon currently has a 3.8 grade-point average.

“Being born in Ghana instilled in me the importance of education,” Ackon noted. “In my family, we viewed education as a very important thing. I’ve always wanted to go to school to the highest level and achieve my goals.”

As Ackon gets set to continue her education in Gainesville, she credits her support system for aiding in her success at Polk State.

“Dr. Vivian (Yakpo-)Newton has been an incredible person and mentor to me,” Ackon explained. “She led me in my academic pathway and provided advice and made sure I lacked nothing. My advice to Polk State College students is to take advantage of the opportunities they have. Seek out help from professors and peers, manage your time wisely, set goals, and make sure they achieve them.”

Yakpo-Newton and Ackon have formed a strong bond, but success coaching is available to all Polk State first-time-in-college students. Success Coaches assist with onboarding steps, registering for classes, and development of success skills. Success Coaches often stay in touch with students throughout their time at Polk State, offering help with academic challenges, planning, student life, and more.

“We have good students here,” Yakpo-Newton concluded. “When our students take the time to do their research, to check in with their professors, check in with their Success Coaches, and everybody else who can help them succeed, they will be successful right here at Polk State College.”