ҹɫÍõ³¯

Who or what has inspired you while at ҹɫÍõ³¯?

The mission trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, was a transformative experience for me. Being immersed in an environment where resources are limited, and the need for healthcare is critical, the trip not only underscores the importance of medical expertise but also reinforces the profound impact a physician can have on underserved communities. 

This mission trip not only deepened my commitment to honing my skills but also broadened my perspective on healthcare delivery. It emphasized the importance of cultural competence, adaptability, and empathy in providing effective care. I learned to think creatively, utilizing limited resources to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients. These lessons are invaluable and have become integral to my approach to medicine.

In many ways, the mission trip reminded me of why I embarked on this journey in the first place. It reignited my passion for medicine and strengthened my resolve to be a force for positive change, both in my community and beyond. The lessons I learned in Punta Cana will forever guide me as I strive to be the best physician I can be, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve.

How has the ҹɫÍõ³¯ mission inspired you as a medical student?

The mission of ҹɫÍõ³¯ aligns with many of the personal and professional goals I strive to achieve as a future physician. Specifically, being from a medically underserved area in Texas, I have witnessed firsthand how physicians can invoke positive change within their community. With an interest in advocacy, I aspire to represent and advocate for medically underserved populations. As the only Osteopathic Medical School in Louisiana, students at ҹɫÍõ³¯ have a unique opportunity to discuss legislation with lawmakers and physicians within our state at events like White Coat Wednesday. I was fortunate enough to witness globally-minded, community-focused physicians at work during these events. I am very fortunate to be in a position to make a positive difference in my community.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

During my mother's fight against cancer, I spent years learning about human sciences throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies. I developed a deeper understanding of the challenges and demands of the medical profession. Education was my respite and would place me in the best position to take care of my family. It was during my mother's treatment that I came to appreciate the significant role physicians play for people like my mother and myself. I witnessed the importance of empathy, dedication to one's patient, and appropriate bedside manners. These lessons would not soon be forgotten, and my first-hand experience with the medical field during my mother's fight reignited my passion for becoming a physician.

Why did you choose ҹɫÍõ³¯?

After applying to and interviewing at medical schools around the nation, my experience at ҹɫÍõ³¯-Louisiana's campus was the most personable. The faculty asked questions to really get to know me as a person, not just as a candidate. They gave us a tour of the city and fielded all of my questions without a hint of judgment. Overall, it was the best interview I had, and it offered a little sense of home, as I was born and raised in the southern part of the US.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

The city of Monroe hosts several little events downtown that keep our time here fun and entertaining. ҹɫÍõ³¯ students are welcomed with open arms. The whole city seems to know the medical school and holds it in high regard. Also, we have access to the University of Louisiana at Monroe's (ULM) facilities, which is great for interacting with undergraduate students and using the recreation center for playing all kinds of sports!

What do you like to do in your free time?

I am a person of many hobbies. I like playing video games like basketball, golf, tennis, bowling, and football. There are recreation centers where we can play pickleball for free! A handful of golf courses range from very affordable to pricier options are also available. 

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

I have always been interested in surgery. As of right now, this remains true. I am leaning towards Ophthalmology, but I am still interested in other fields like Gastroenterology, Interventional Radiology, and General Surgery. I am keeping my mind open to all possibilities and look forward to clinical rotations to see what will fit my personality the best!

The mission trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, was a transformative experience for me. Being immersed in an environment where resources are limited, and the need for healthcare is critical, the trip not only underscores the importance of medical expertise but also reinforces the profound impact a physician can have on underserved communities. 

Who or what has inspired you while at ҹɫÍõ³¯?

During my time at ҹɫÍõ³¯, I have been most inspired by the incredible sense of community among my classmates. No matter how challenging or stressful the workload gets, my peers are always there for one another. Whether it’s through late-night study sessions, sharing resources, or simply offering words of encouragement, we constantly lift each other. I’ve seen classmates go out of their way to help someone struggling, whether academically or personally, and that spirit of teamwork motivates me every day.

The faculty at ҹɫÍõ³¯ has also been a source of inspiration, encouraging us to support one another and lead with compassion. Their commitment to fostering a collaborative and uplifting environment has been instrumental in shaping my growth, both as a student and as a future physician.

These experiences have taught me that medicine is not a solo journey. The strength of the connections we build with patients, peers, and mentors is what allows us to overcome challenges and thrive.

How has the ҹɫÍõ³¯ mission inspired you as a medical student?

Growing up in Nigeria, I saw firsthand the significant healthcare disparities affecting rural and underserved communities. Access to basic medical care was limited, and many families faced immense struggles. These experiences shaped my passion for addressing inequities in healthcare and serving vulnerable populations.

ҹɫÍõ³¯â€™s mission deeply resonates with me, as it aligns with my commitment to improving access to care and advocating for underserved communities. The focus on preparing globally minded and community-oriented physicians has inspired me to view medicine as a tool for empowerment and change. ҹɫÍõ³¯â€™s emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care has further encouraged me to consider the physical, emotional, and social aspects of healthcare.

Participating in outreach programs and working with underserved populations through ҹɫÍõ³¯ has been particularly meaningful. These experiences remind me of the challenges I witnessed growing up and motivate me to become a physician dedicated to bridging gaps in care. ҹɫÍõ³¯â€™s mission continues to inspire my journey, reinforcing my commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for all.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

My inspiration to study medicine comes from a combination of personal experiences and the profound impact of healthcare disparities I witnessed growing up in Nigeria. In my community, access to quality healthcare was often a privilege rather than a basic right. I saw friends and family members suffer from preventable illnesses simply because the resources and medical professionals they needed weren’t available. These experiences deeply affected me and sparked my desire to be part of the solution.

Additionally, my family has always emphasized the importance of education and service, instilling in me the values of empathy and perseverance. Their encouragement, coupled with my desire to address healthcare inequities, inspired me to pursue a career in medicine.

Today, as a medical student, I remain motivated by those early experiences and the people who shaped my journey. They remind me of the importance of compassion, resilience, and the incredible privilege of being able to care for others.

Why did you choose ҹɫÍõ³¯?

I chose ҹɫÍõ³¯ because of the unique opportunity to complete my master’s program through the medical school, which gave me a firsthand understanding of its culture and values. During that time, I interacted with faculty and students and was struck by the welcoming and supportive environment. This collaborative atmosphere made me feel at home and solidified my desire to join this community.

ҹɫÍõ³¯â€™s mission resonates deeply with my values. Its commitment to preparing globally-minded, community-focused osteopathic physicians aligns with my goal of serving underserved and rural populations. I am especially drawn to the emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities and advancing research to improve human health.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

What I enjoy most about living in the area around my campus is the abundance of lakes, trails, and parks, which offer incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. Being here has introduced me to a completely different lifestyle compared to what I was used to in the Houston metro area. I've had the chance to learn about fishing and hunting activities I never would have experienced before, and they've given me a deeper appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Whether it's exploring scenic trails or enjoying the tranquility of the lakes, living here has been both refreshing and eye-opening.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love playing soccer, a passion that has been with me since growing up playing on the streets of Nigeria. No matter how challenging life gets, soccer is my therapy. It allows me to disconnect from my worries and recharge my energy. I also enjoy cooking and experimenting with cuisines from various cultures, which gives me a sense of creativity and exploration. Additionally, I prioritize working out to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. On rare occasions, when I have extra spare time, I unwind by playing video games.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

Yes, I am particularly interested in pursuing a career in surgery. What inspires me most about surgery is the opportunity to directly and immediately impact patients' lives. Witnessing how a surgeon’s skill can alleviate suffering and restore health has been incredibly motivating for me. My interest deepened during my clinical experiences, where I observed the precision, teamwork, and problem-solving required in the operating room. Additionally, surgery appeals to my love for hands-on work and my desire to constantly challenge myself to improve. I find it deeply rewarding to combine technical expertise with compassion to help patients in critical moments of their lives.

Participating in outreach programs and working with underserved populations through ҹɫÍõ³¯ has been particularly meaningful. These experiences remind me of the challenges I witnessed growing up and motivate me to become a physician dedicated to bridging gaps in care.