WASHINGTON (May 27, 2025) – Howard University Department of Athletics continues its senior spotlight series with another grad edition, featuring men's soccer standout Kwadwo Nyakro (Greater Accra, Ghana), who was interviewed by rising junior advertising major Nala James.
 
Q: What inspired you to pursue soccer at the collegiate level?
A: Soccer has always been a central part of my life. Growing up in Ghana, soccer is a major sport and I dreamed of playing at the college level. At Howard, I saw collegiate soccer as a powerful blend of passion and purpose.
 
Q: How did you get started in soccer?
A: In Ghana, I participated in inter-school competitions. In high school, I earned a scholarship to play soccer and quickly made a name for myself, winning MVP in my first year. I advanced to the regional level but was sidelined by an injury. Despite this setback, I continued pushing forward.
 
I credit my older brother as a major inspiration. I balances both athletics and academics and wants to follow a path where I could excel both academically and athletically.
 
Q: What kept you motivated through your journey, especially transitioning from Ghana to the U.S.?
A: After high school, I faced uncertainty but refused to give up. I began teaching to support myself and save for school while continuing to train. Eventually, I enrolled at Kumasi Technical University, balancing my studies and soccer. It was during this time that a coach recognized my commitment to both academics and athletics and recommended me for a program that recruits African students to study and play soccer in the U.S. This recognition, paired with my relentless work ethic, opened the door to new opportunities abroad.
 
Q: Who or what will you miss most about being part of Howard University?
A: There is two things I will miss. One, Mr. Paul Bowden (Howard Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Support Services) because he has been there for me when it comes to academics and compliance.
 
Second, my coaches because they groomed me into who I am. Also, my captains, like Roy Anderson, Alexis Taylor, Bryson Baker and Jackson Lewis, helped create a welcoming space for me as an international student.
 
Q: How has Howard's culture and community shaped your experience as a student-athlete?
A: Howard's community is diverse and tight knit. Interacting with people from all over Africa and the Caribbean exposed me to different perspectives.
 
Also, the strong alumni network and the School of Business taught me professionalism, teamwork, presentations and how to navigate organizational spaces.
 
Q: Is there anybody you want to personally thank for supporting you on your soccer journey?
A: My elder brother has been my biggest inspiration. And Yusif Chipsah, a former player of Kumasi Asante Kotoko and now a FIFA-licensed coach, showed me that blending academics and athletics is possible. My path in accounting and football (soccer) inspired me to follow a similar journey.
 
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I just got accepted into the Master of Accountancy program at Howard. So, I plan to use what I learned as a student-athlete and accountant to eventually give back to my community, maybe even help other athletes manage their finances one day.
 
Q: What is one lesson you have learned as a student-athlete that you will carry with you for life?
A: One of the biggest lessons I have learned is how to master time management. Being a student-athlete means your day starts before the sun comes up and does not end until late at night. You are constantly juggling workouts, classes, team meetings and study sessions while trying to find time for yourself and the people who matter to you. It pushed me to develop a level of discipline and organization. I will carry with me no matter where life takes me.
 
Q: Any advice you would give to future Bison athletes?
A: My advice? Do not take this experience for granted because being a Bison athlete is more than just playing your sport. It is about growing as a leader, making lifelong connections and representing something bigger than yourself.
 
Also, show up with purpose, both on and off the field. Go to class, build relationships with your professors, talk to alumni and take time to understand the legacy you are building. Howard will challenge you, but it will also shape you in the best way. Embrace all the hard practices, the tough losses, the big wins and the quiet moments because they all teach you something. Leave this place better than you found it.
 
About Nyarko

• Personal:
  • Hometown: Greater Accra, Ghana
  • Major: Accounting
• Academic Achievements at Howard:
  • NEC Fall Academic Honor Roll
  • NEC Commissioner's Honor Roll

 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.