Andzani Mthenjane: “Physics at Drew has been exciting, engaging, and full of discovery.”
September 2025 – Senior Andzani Mthenjane C’26 has received a TEAM-Up Together scholarship to pursue her physics degree at Drew University.
The scholarship, supported by the American Institute of Physics, launched in 2022 and seeks to help students of color pursue and complete degrees in physics and astronomy.
As an international student from South Africa, Mthenjane did not have a built-in network in the U.S. familiar with scholarship channels and relied heavily on the guidance and support from professors and mentors at Drew.
Her physics professor, Kamal Benslama, encouraged her to apply each of the last two years, and she received the award this year.
For Mthenjane, a physics major and double minor in mathematics and environmental studies and sustainability (ESS), the physics program at Drew has been the exception that proved the rule.
“One barrier I see in physics is the perception that it is an almost unattainable, unwelcoming field, especially for someone like me, a young, Black, international student,” she said.
“Physics is often framed as intimidating and reserved for an elite group, which can make the path to a physics degree daunting. But my experience at Drew defied this. Although innately challenging, physics at Drew has been exciting, engaging, and full of discovery.”
Mthenjane pointed to her lab experiences at Drew as unique, standout opportunities.
“As someone who aspires to pursue engineering or applied physics, this practical, problem-solving side of the program has been deeply motivating, affirming my path forward, and shaping me into a more resilient learner.”
With a scholarship in hand to ease the financial impact of attaining a degree, Mthenjane can focus on completing her degree with an eye toward the future.
