International Student-Athlete Finds a Second Family at Norfolk State

From Kenya to the United States, Norfolk State senior Mercyline Kimaiyo has come a long way to become a successful student-athlete. While facing adversity, Kimaiyo overcame those trials and tribulations that led and shaped her into the student-athlete and leader that she is today. 

“When Mercyline came into our program three years ago, she was an uncapped talent,” Norfolk State director of track & field Kenneth Giles said. “She has set a standard for our program and has been an asset from an athletic, academic, and social standpoint.” 

Kimaiyo came to Norfolk State University from American International College after spending one season with the Yellow Jackets. 

“My decision to transfer to Norfolk State University was influenced by the majors that NSU offers,” Kimaiyo said. “NSU also has a wonderful team led by amazing staff members for cross country and track.”

Kimaiyo has found adjusting to a new culture one of the most difficult aspects of transitioning to life in the United States. It marked one of the most difficult factors in her collegiate decision. 

“Being an international student in the United States has its merits and demerits,” Kimaiyo said. “For example, you get to experience a different culture and norms, but it isn’t easy being away from the people and the culture that I grew up with.” 

Kimaiyo has racked up many accolades for Norfolk State, including winning back-to-back individual cross-country championships and back-to-back outstanding runner awards at the indoor and outdoor championships. 

“I didn’t do it all by myself,” Kimaiyo said. “All of this success is from God, the support of my coaches, and teammates who supported me both during practice and competing.” 

She also etched her name into the school record books as the record holder in one indoor event (5,000 meters) and three outdoor events (3,000-meter steeplechase, 5,000 meters, and 10,000 meters). 

But even despite of all the accolades in her career, Kimaiyo won’t take all the credit. 

“Mercyline is a true team leader,” Giles said. “She puts her teammates first and is a humbling and outstanding individual.”

There’s no denying the challenges that come with being a student-athlete. Both on the track and in the classroom, athletes must adhere to extremely strict schedules. To remain successful, athletes must strike a balance between training, competition, and academics.

“My goal is to be great at all of it,” Kimaiyo said. “There are many days where it is difficult, but remaining calm and putting one foot forward has helped me keep true to my goal of being great in every aspect of my life.” 

Distance can cause major anxiety for any student-athlete, especially for someone living in another country. However, Kimaiyo has established a family at Norfolk State, while maintaining communication with those back home.

“My family has been my cheering squad,” Kimaiyo said. “They have encouraged me to remain positive and to believe in myself, even when things might not be going the best.” 

Norfolk State has built the top track and field program in the MEAC over the years under coach Giles, with many great athletes representing the green and gold. Kimaiyo portrays Norfolk State in a positive light and understands what it means to be a Spartan. 

“Kimaiyo embodies the culture we have put together here at NSU,” Giles said. “She is the type of individual you want representing your program.” 

As her college career comes to an end this semester at Norfolk State, Kimaiyo has represented Norfolk State in a very positive manner, putting the student part of student-athlete at the forefront of her career.  

“My biggest achievement will be acquiring my degree next year,” Kimaiyo said. “I am grateful that I made Norfolk State proud.”