Early April 2022. Indianapolis. I was 22, recently graduated, studying for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and beginning the process of applying to medical school following years of self-improvement. For the past 5 weeks, everything had been feeling more difficult. My basal body temperature and resting heart rate increased, my energy was constantly depleted, and exercising felt more difficult. My stomach became bottomless and I had sudden cravings for foods I never enjoyed before: watermelon and feta cheese, Chick-Fil-A sauce and avocados, pistachio-strawberry-peanut butter Blizzards. A thought popped into my head one morning, “My period was 10 days late.” It had been irregular before, late even, but never this late. An inkling of a thought began forming in my mind, a reality I didn’t want to confront. “Could I be pregnant? No, not me. This wouldn’t happen to me.” I told my then-boyfriend about the changes happening in my body, my late period, and the possibility we could be expecting. I took a pregnancy test which confirmed our fears and as young and untested we were, we could not afford a baby financially, emotionally, and mentally. Having been raised in a faithfully Pentecostal household, the decision to not move forward with the pregnancy was tortuous and difficult. I wanted to follow my faith and honor my God, but I could not reconcile bringing a child into a life where they had no chance. We knew what we had to do but Indiana made obtaining an abortion a near-impossible task and at this time, Dobbs v. Jackson was being argued in the Supreme Court. The morning of the 1st appointment, I was met with protestors and hecklers forming a gauntlet leading to the entrance of Planned-Parenthood. During the consultation, the doctor explained the instructions for the pill and the legal requirements. I thought of all the women who had been in my shoes and those who would come after and felt a deep connection to this lineage of strength and struggle and it strengthened my resolve to become an Ob/Gyn. Moving to the United States from Nigeria, my family was plagued by poverty, constantly walking the paycheck-to-paycheck tightrope. My father, a doctor in the motherland, was reduced to working menial jobs and because of his wounded pride could not keep a job. This forced me to become a breadwinner alongside my mother at 15. Additionally, growing up a little Black girl in rural Indiana, I felt the sting of isolation and the burden of unworthiness. Beauty, according to society, seemed to escape me, and I often grappled with constant feelings of ugliness and loneliness. Internally, I discovered an inner strength and a resolve to redefine my worth on my terms. Resilience has been the cornerstone of my character and has shaped me into a compassionate, determined individual, unwavering in my pursuit of a career in medicine. My journey has taught me that adversity is also a catalyst for transformation. In the quiet moments of reflection, I see my past not as a series of insurmountable obstacles but as the crucible that forged my strength. My experiences have instilled in me an unyielding belief in the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back. In medicine, I see the opportunity to blend my resilience with my compassion, to serve with empathy and dedication, and to be a beacon of hope for those who, like me, are striving to overcome their own challenges. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, and it is this spirit that will guide me as I endeavor to heal, uplift, and inspire.

My mother used to dress my little sister and me in matching outfits when we were younger. White tulle-ballerina-puff dresses, ruffled socks, white mary-janes with a kitten heel, decorative headbands, the whole nine yards. Like dolls. Everyone at church would eat it up, gushing and cooing. We weren’t twins but she liked to think we were and at only 1 year apart and looking similar at that age, it wasn’t a stretch of the imagination. The clothes were hand-me-downs from other families in the church but they loved seeing us dressed up on Sunday mornings. We left the equatorial humidity of Port Harcourt to join the temperate chill of Mishawaka, Indiana. In April those spring temperatures felt frigid, one can only imagine how much harder winter was. Those first few years were fraught with challenges but the church that sponsored us, rallied and uplifted us. The love of God was made manifest in the way they treated us. As our first community, they showed us a selflessness and hospitality we never expected but never forgot. At many points in my life, for the last 18 years that I’ve been in the States, I’ve been supported and encouraged by people around me. At my schools, I am given space to flourish and grow as a student, leader, and individual. My family and I are indebted to the people here. When we migrated here and had no community, no support system, they took us in, offered themselves up to us, and became our community. My journey in medicine and community service is not just a career path but a calling, a symphony of compassion, dedication, and a vision for a brighter future. Throughout my career and endeavors, I strive to positively impact others and impart positive change. As the president of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA), I endeavor to uplift and support women in need. Our flagship initiative is collaborating with a local women's domestic violence shelter. Here, I organize fundraisers through bake and pin sales, and host supply drives, rallying my peers to contribute their time and talents. These efforts provide much-needed financial support to the shelter and raise awareness about domestic violence. I also coordinate volunteer opportunities for students at the shelter and with local women’s care centers, fostering empathy and action within our student body. In addition to my work with the shelter, I volunteer at a local pregnancy care center. This experience has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges faced by expectant mothers and frightened women in the industrial backdrop of Middletown, New York. Providing support and care to these women has been a humbling and enriching experience, reinforcing my commitment to women's health and advocacy. Looking to the future, my vision for impact is both expansive and deeply personal. As a future OB/GYN, I am committed to addressing healthcare disparities and advocating for equitable access to quality care for women of color. I plan to establish a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) practice in underserved communities, ensuring that every woman receives the compassionate and comprehensive care she deserves. Education will be a cornerstone of my practice, empowering women with the knowledge and resources they need to take control of their health and well-being. People deserve the opportunity to thrive, money and lack of care should not be a barrier to success. Beyond clinical practice, I aspire to influence healthcare policy, advocating for systemic changes that address the root causes of health inequities. I envision a world where healthcare is a fundamental right, where every individual has access to the care they need to thrive.

My ideal bookshelf, inspired by the vibrant #BookTok community, is a sanctuary of stories that illuminate the human experience, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit. Among the myriad of titles that grace this collection, three stand out as must-haves: "Circe" by Madeline Miller, "All About Love" by bell hooks, and "The Shadow of Perseus." These books have not only captivated readers but have also sparked meaningful conversations and fostered a sense of community within BookTok. "Circe" by Madeline Miller is a masterful reimagining of the life of the enchantress from Greek mythology. This novel is more than just a retelling; it is an exploration of identity, power, and transformation. Circe, often depicted as a mere footnote in the tales of male heroes, is given her own voice and narrative. Miller’s lyrical prose and profound insights into the human condition have resonated deeply with BookTok readers for its feminist themes and its emphasis on the strength and agency of women. Circe’s journey from exile to empowerment mirrors the struggles and triumphs many face in their own lives, making her story both timeless and deeply personal. "All About Love" by bell hooks is a seminal work that delves into the nature of love in its many forms—romantic, familial, spiritual, and communal. Hooks’ incisive analysis and heartfelt reflections challenge conventional understandings of love and urge readers to embrace a more holistic and radical vision of this fundamental human experience. Within the BookTok community, "All About Love" has become a touchstone for discussions on self-care, relationships, and social justice. Hooks’ call for a love that transcends boundaries and fosters connection and healing has inspired countless readers to reexamine their own lives and to strive for a more compassionate and equitable world. "The Shadow of Perseus" takes readers on a journey through ancient myth, reimagining the story of Perseus from a fresh perspective. This novel challenges the traditional hero narrative, offering a more nuanced and humanized portrayal of its characters. By shedding light on the untold stories and voices often overlooked in mythological retellings, "The Shadow of Perseus" invites readers to question the narratives they have been taught and to seek out the hidden truths within history and mythology. The book’s impact on BookTok has been profound, with readers praising its innovative approach and its ability to breathe new life into ancient tales. Each of these books has left an indelible mark on the BookTok community, fostering a space where readers can explore complex themes, share their insights, and connect with others who share their passions. They have inspired readers to embrace their own stories, to challenge societal norms, and to find strength and beauty in the diverse tapestry of human experience. In my ideal bookshelf, these titles serve as both a reflection of my personal journey and a beacon of inspiration for the future. They remind me of the power of storytelling to heal, transform, and unite. Through the pages of these books, I am reminded that literature is not just a mirror of our world but a powerful tool for change—a means to envision and create a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society.

Adversity is a relentless sculptor, chiseling away at our raw edges to reveal the strength, resilience, and beauty hidden within. My journey has been one marked by trials that have tested my spirit, yet each challenge has forged me into a person of unwavering resolve and compassion. Torn from one life and thrust into another, I navigated the tumultuous seas of my existence, grappling with the weight of societal expectations and the harsh realities of my environment. Growing up as a woman in a patriarchal society, I was treated as chattel, my worth seemingly reduced to what I could provide rather than who I was. The paradox of high expectations juxtaposed with limited opportunities created a constant tension within me. I was expected to excel, yet my dreams were often dismissed or belittled. The struggle to assert my identity and ambitions in a world that sought to confine me was a daily battle. Poverty cast a long shadow over my childhood. At the tender age of 15, I became the breadwinner for my family, stepping into a role far beyond my years because my father could not hold down a job. The responsibility was immense, the pressure unrelenting. Each day was a testament to survival, juggling school and work, ensuring my family’s needs were met while harboring my own aspirations. As a little Black girl in rural Indiana, I often felt ugly, lonely, isolated, and small. The societal standards of beauty and worthiness seemed to exclude me, and I grappled with a profound sense of invisibility. The loneliness was palpable, the isolation a constant companion. Yet, in those quiet moments of solitude, I found a wellspring of inner strength. I learned to see myself through my own eyes, to cherish my unique beauty and inherent worth. Overcoming adversity was not a singular event but a continuous process of resilience and self-discovery. I leaned on the power of education, immersing myself in books and knowledge as a means of escape and empowerment. Education became my sanctuary, a realm where my dreams could flourish unimpeded by societal constraints. I sought solace in the stories of others who had faced similar struggles, drawing inspiration from their triumphs. This adversity shaped me into a compassionate leader, deeply attuned to the struggles of others. It instilled in me a relentless drive to advocate for those who are marginalized and to create spaces where everyone’s voice can be heard. My experiences fueled my passion for women’s health and equity, guiding my efforts within the American Medical Women’s Association and the NMF Primary Care Leadership Program. These platforms have allowed me to mentor, uplift, and inspire others, transforming my pain into a beacon of hope. To anyone facing similar circumstances, I offer this advice: Embrace your journey, for it is uniquely yours. Your struggles do not define you, but they shape your resilience and character. Seek solace in education and the stories of others who have walked a similar path. Believe in your inherent worth, regardless of societal standards. Surround yourself with a community that uplifts and supports you. And most importantly, never let go of your dreams, for they are the compass guiding you toward a brighter future. Adversity may be a formidable sculptor, but it is through its relentless chiseling that our true selves are revealed, radiant and unbreakable.

It was 5 AM in Murtala Muhammed International Airport or Lagos International, as it’s commonly called. The air was cool but lightly dull with humidity, the sky was tinted a dark orange, and I could tell the sun was trying to rise. A saucer-eyed seven-year-old wearing a fuchsia pink sequined butterfly top, well-loved velcroed Bratz sneakers, and wrinkled, pleated denim skirt held her older sister’s hand to weave through other travelers and rendezvous with their family. Being raised in a village outside of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, my family hadn’t known any other life. With divine favor, we won the Diversity Visa Lottery in 2006 and we were on our way to America. Winning was the first step, an easy step, getting to America was another matter altogether. The Perkins, a Christian couple from South Bend, Indiana, that we were led to, sponsored my family of seven to migrate to America. The tight-knit church community the Perkins established with immigrant Indian families in small-town Mishawaka, Indiana grew to include many cultures, families, and our own. The church provided my family with shelter, food, clothing, aid, and fellowship. They allowed us to stay in a home they owned, bought our groceries, and supported us until we could be independent. My family was able to prosper because of a church and community that welcomed us, gave us a home, security, and normalcy. When we migrated here and had no community, no support system, they took us in, offered themselves up to us, and became our community. I want to serve the people that served me and give back to those that gave to me. The lack of proper care of female patients, implicit bias, and medical gaslighting are concerns plaguing healthcare. As a woman having experienced inadequate care, bias, and medical gaslighting, I know the debilitating effect it has on my trust in providers and willingness to seek further care. I can make sure to give patients the patience and consideration to explain their conditions, their thoughts, as well as concerns or fears they may have. For patients who have been historically neglected, I endeavor to make a concerted effort to treat them and assess their conditions and complaints with the goal of earnest care. My background as an immigrant woman of color, with a challenging upbringing allowed me to recognize the importance of compassion and kindness in the treatment of others and the need to serve the underserved. The gaps in the care of communities of color, namely women of color, motivate me to endeavor to serve the underserved and stand in the gap for them. That is the impact I want to make on the world as a physician. So I think, why not me? If not me, then who? I understand the trepidation and wariness women feel surrounding healthcare, especially in the birthing arena. I see the medical industry leave women behind, I see the chasm of care for women, especially women of color. If I can stand in the gap for women, if I can care for women who are not intentionally cared for, why wouldn’t I? The women in my life have raised me, poured into me, and deeply impacted me. They represent the women most in need of care and are my driving force for wanting to be of service and care for other women. The improvement of life for all is what interests me about STEAM. I'm a first-generation, immigrant woman from a poor family and community rich in warmth. My purpose in life is to bring healing and care to people in need.

“Raise your hand if you still carry a quarter for those little tampon, pad lockers”, I called to my mostly Gen-Z peers over Zoom. My medical school was holding elections for student government and I was running for Vice President. My platform was access. Reducing barriers of access to higher education like finances by pledging and campaigning for scholarships for disadvantaged students, improving access to menstrual products, and improving chances of students to match into residency programs by creating more leadership opportunities. It was election night and the VP arena was crowded, with 6 people running for the position. I asked the question during my speech, got some laughs, some smiles, but almost no one affirmed their constant possession of that barely 1-inch form of currency needed to access pad lockers. I lost that race but found success in other positions such as the President of the American Medical Women’s Association for the school, the National Liaison Officer for the Student Osteopathic Medical Association, a Medical Student for Choice Chapter Leader, and part of the Education Committee for Sigma Sigma Phi, our medical school honor society. I ran the race under that campaign banner as a callback to an initiative I championed in my undergrad. As the Events Director for the Residence Hall Association, it was important to build community within the campus community. The initiative I championed was partnering with the Period Project to draft and pass legislation to provide free menstrual products for the residence halls. This was an initiative I had trialed and found success with as part of the Windsor Hall Club, an all-women’s dorm. We used club funds to supply all 5 halls with free pads, tampons, and condoms to promote safe sex practices. We felt it important to reduce yet another barrier of access we face as women. Working with the Period Project, we encouraged other dorms to budget and provide free menstrual products to their residents. This was the initiative I wanted to recreate in my medical school, to have free access to menstrual products, a way to support female students in simple but effectively. I will revitalize efforts to implement this initiative within my medical school. I want to do my part as a member of the physician workforce and society to contribute to improvements and solutions created for these issues. The lack of proper care for female patients, implicit bias, and medical gaslighting are concerns plaguing healthcare. As a woman having experienced inadequate care, bias, and medical gaslighting, I know the debilitating effect it has on my trust in providers and willingness to seek further care. I can make sure to give patients the patience and consideration to explain their conditions, their thoughts, as well as concerns or fears they may have. For patients who have been historically neglected, I endeavor to make a concerted effort to treat them and assess their conditions and complaints in earnest. So I think, why not me? If not me, then who? I understand the trepidation and wariness women feel surrounding healthcare, especially in the birthing arena. I see the medical industry leave women behind, I see the chasm of care for women, especially women of color. If I can stand in the gap for women, if I can care for women who are not intentionally cared for, why wouldn’t I? The women in my life have raised me, poured into me, and deeply impacted me. They represent the women most in need of care and are my driving force for wanting to be of service and care for other women.

Since high school, I contributed to my family finances because of the instability of my father's ability to work. Throughout college as well, the hours I worked, the money I made, it would all go toward helping my mum pay for bills, mortgage, groceries, and support my siblings. If I wasn't working at school, I'd be working during holidays and the summer. Not being able to work after the semester ended and not having a job to help my family put us in a dire situation during COVID. In that time, we demonstrated tenacity and resilience. We learned we could rely on each other, ask for help, and always return to our community. Through our misfortunes and hardship, I became a strategic planner, problem solver, resourceful and innovative. In the face of challenges, I understand there can be a way.