AMERICA |A brilliant 21-year-old woman named Resa Nelson, a biology major from Antigua and a senior at Hofstra University, has made history after being awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to pursue her master’s degree at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
Considered one of the world’s most competitive academic awards, the Rhodes Scholarship selects scholars based on academic excellence, leadership, character, and “devotion to duty”—criteria Resa embodies fully.
If selected, you get to study a double master’s degree for two years at the University of Oxford. Her achievement is doubly historic as she is Hofstra University’s first-ever Rhodes Scholar, and only the second Rhodes Scholar from Antigua.
Resa's Story and How She Did It
Resa’s academic journey began with a question and the courage to pursue answers. Her groundbreaking research focuses on transforming Antigua’s seaweed into sustainable biofuel, a project she developed under the mentorship of Professor Dr. Javier Izquierdo.
Dr. Izquierdo believes her potential is boundless. “I wouldn’t be surprised if one day we’re talking about Resa as a Rhodes Scholar, a corporate leader, or even a Nobel Prize winner. She is dedicated to creating positive change in our world,” he said.
Originally, Resa planned to attend medical school. But the more time she spent in the lab, the more she discovered a deeper calling.
“I realized I loved the act of discovery—the process of asking questions and finding answers,” she said.
This shift opened the door to additional work in cancer immunology and neurobiology, expanding her scientific perspective and strengthening her research portfolio.
Much of Resa’s passion comes from recognizing the lack of Afro-Caribbean representation in scientific research. “Afro-Caribbean people like myself don’t necessarily have the representation we need in cell biology and research,” she explained.
This conviction fuels her mentorship efforts. Resa volunteers at a local middle school, tutoring young students and expanding their academic opportunities.
“I know what it’s like to grow up where your options feel limited. Having someone believe in you can make all the difference,” he said.
The final stage of the Rhodes Scholarship selection took place in Barbados, where finalists waited together for the verdict.
“Interviews ended around four, and by five they were announcing the Rhodes Scholar. The media is right there—no email, no warning. You can’t prepare for something like that,” Resa recalled.
She expressed that winning was overwhelming, not just for her, but for every young Caribbean student who dreams of sitting at global tables. “Being the first is a lot. But what’s more important is making sure you’re not the last. Because being the last would be embarrassing,” she said.
In 2026, Resa will begin a Master’s in Biology by Research at Oxford, where she plans to pursue long-term work in stem cell research.
“I see myself developing the first Afro-Caribbean stem cell line. We need representation in research—someone in the lab saying, ‘This is what the Caribbean community needs,” she said of her dream.
She notes that the first pancreatic stem cell line from Afro-Caribbean individuals was only recently published—far too late for a region whose unique health challenges demand scientific attention.
Looking ahead, Resa hopes her story lights a path for others in Antigua and Barbuda. “Do what you love and be yourself,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to be afraid. One day, that fear will fade—and you’ll do amazing things,” she said.
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