Berry student reaches out to orphans

Junior Dnika Joseph plans to open international orphanage

For Dnika Joseph, Berry College's motto “Not to be ministered unto, but to minister,” is a lifelong goal. “I have dedicated my life to serving others,” Joseph said.

A junior biology major from Trinidad and Tobago, she has a long-term goal -- open an orphanage for children from different parts of the world.

Dnika Joseph
photo courtesy of Residence Life

She was very specific in explaining the process she would take to achieve her goal. Orphans' native countries would sponsor the children much like the current adoption system, but while the children live in the foster home, they would learn valuable lessons, such as how to work together and the importance of knowing about different languages and cultures. When the children are old enough to return to their home countries, they will be able to promote awareness and tolerance of other countries.

“She would be more than willing to give her right arm, maybe even her left, if she knew that she could help someone by doing it,” said Jessie Faulhaber, a friend of Joseph's.

Even though she is a college student, Joseph has already begun her service-oriented life.

“I think what is so unique about her is that she loves to be involved in different things and usually all those things have to do with helping others,” Nayuribe Gutierrez said.

Joseph is involved in numerous activities on campus, including being a Resident Assistant and a Bonner Scholar, and being active in the Dean of Student’s Office, Allied Health Club and Student Government Association.

“I guess I really am involved in more than I thought,” said Joseph with a laugh after she finished listing off all her activities.

Disney thoughts

While Joseph affectionately talks about her goals and dreams, she has another passion in her life -- anything Disney.

“My favorite Disney character is Ariel from The Little Mermaid,” said Joseph with a shy smile.

Her friends claimed the change of subject was not surprising.

“You think you have her figured out, and then suddenly, she’ll tell a story…that shows an entirely different side to her,” said Jennifer Parr, a friend and fellow resident assistant.

Joseph explained her logic behind liking Ariel.

“Well, to begin with, Sebastian studied at the university in Trinidad and Tobago; my home country. Ariel wanted to be elsewhere and she worked for what she wanted.”

“And lastly, Ariel combined two worlds that otherwise would never have worked together. Sort of like what I hope to accomplish with the orphanage,” says Joseph with a smile.

After Berry, Joseph wants to get her master’s in global health from a university in England. She is unsure of which university, however, going to England has been a dream all of her life.

{A. D. T.}