As the daughter of Nigerian immigrants, the vibrant melody of Nigerian culture courses through the very fibers of my being, creating unique experiences that have shaped my identity and what I desire to achieve. Science and medicine have always been an important part of my life dating back to 4th grade where I first aspired to attend Johns Hopkins Medical School to hopeful become a neurosurgeon. Although my hopes and aspirations have shifted in recent years, I still desire to give back to the world of medicine as a future OB-GYN, pouring into women, mothers, and newborns.
Furthermore, I seek to sub sub-specialize in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. This desire to sub-specialize came after I worked as an intern at Emory University's Stephen T. Warren Fragile X Center. During this time, I researched Fragile X Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (FXPOI), a complex condition arising from a mutation in the FMR1 gene region, affecting approximately 1 million women in the United States. My time in the lab taught me the vital lesson of diligence in research, emphasizing that discoveries evolve over time. My passion for subjects like these deepened as I would think of loved ones grappling with parenthood aspirations while enduring heartbreaking setbacks with unsuccessful attempts with treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Apart from medicine and research I have a strong love for music. I play piano and cello and love to write original songs about the transformative power of the gospel of Jesus Christ which propels me to serve and love others unconditionally. This passion has continued at Duke as I am a part of a Christian acapella group called SBSB here on campus. Back at home in Georgia I also love to teach and mentor the children and youth at my church as I believe that they are the future change-makers of this generation. Moreover, this love to serve has also been nurtured here at Duke as I am a part of my house council team where I serve as the academic engagement chair. My hope during my time at Duke is to bring a positive impact, enjoy the learning process, and leave a lasting legacy that surpasses me and my generation and encourages others to shine bright in this world!
“Being a Cardea Fellow is not only an honor but a true gift. Fellows are given resources and advice so that they can truly soar to achieve all their hopes and aspirations. My time here at Duke is truly one of joy and ease because of Cardea!”