Nigy Boy proudly earns university degrees with honours

Dancehall 'hot topic' Nigy Boy said he is 'proud' of his journey, as he has mastered the art of music and now masters his tertiary education.

This after graduating top of his class with distinctive honours in both political science and history. As he reflected on his graduation from the Stony Brook University in the US last Thursday and Friday, the young entertainer was moved by his own level of resilience and prowess.

"[It's] a celebration of a major milestone in my life. These two days recognised the hard work, struggle and sacrifices I made throughout my four years of undergraduate study to get to this point in my journey. I was able to celebrate the connections I made with peers and members of faculty reflecting on memorable moments throughout my time in university; some experiences [were] great and some not so great," Nigy Boy told THE STAR. "I was presented with the reality that my time in university was a chapter of my life and that beyond the walls of Stony Brook, is a wider world waiting for me to explore to write another chapter in my story."

He pursued both degrees for four years and graduated cum laude (with honours) in both areas of study.

"I feel proud within myself to know that I have undertaken and completed this journey. It definitely wasn't easy for me, especially since I was juggling the music with my studies. But I was able to do it up to this point regardless of the burden of it all, and I'm just proud to know that I've done it," he said.

Contrary to what others may think of his university experience being a challenge, the Stony Brook scholar said it was quite "easy" getting by as a visually impaired student.

"Through the use of Braille, assistive technology such as Jaws screen reader, in addition to my assertive nature, allowed me to operate efficiently in the classroom environment and complete assignments without issues. Receiving orientation and mobility instructions also allowed me to navigate the college campus independently," he said.

In a one-minute video that was posted on his Instagram page, Nigy Boy was seen dressed in a full red graduation gown and a matching hat along with his dark shades, as he strutted across the stage while being escorted by his mother. As she guided his every move, screams, loud cheers, applause and whistling filled the room upon the announcement of the beaming achiever.

"I hold a bachelor's of arts in history as well as a bachelor's of arts in political science with a concentration in law, government and public policy. I chose these areas of study because I believe that these academic disciplines would allow me to understand how the creation of policies impact society in both past and present day. I also believe these areas of study would provide me the knowledge to pursue a legal education," said Nigy Boy, given name Nigel Hector. Despite being uncertain about crossing over into the political arena, he is sure that he will be furthering his education in the "foreseeable future, possibly obtaining a law degree".

In a previous STAR interview, Nigy Boy underscored that "having education is a strength that can't be taken away from me". He further stressed that it is of paramount importance for individuals, especially those in the field of arts, to seek a good or higher education.

"One thing I hope individuals can take away from what I've achieved thus far is to not limit yourself. If you want to pursue a goal and you have the ability to do so, then go for it and let nothing stop you. Never say that you can't; instead, try," Nigy Boy said.