Amazing student Omowunmi Oni

Senior Biological science major and African studies minor Omowunmi Oni is confident that she was destined to attend UGA because of the lifelong friendships she has built, great connections and amazing opportunities:

These past four years at the University of Georgia has been an amazing experience. Throughout my time here, I have grown tremendously in my personal, academic and professional goals.

One of my greatest highlights here at UGA include being a part of the African Student Union. As a member of ASU, I have modeled for events like Africa Night and FeaRed, bringing awareness of African culture and issues into UGA’s campus. I have also been a member of the competition dance team, battling with other ASUs across the state, a memorable experience of bonding with my team. As an executive member of ASU, I have worked as a member of the banquet committee, fundraising chair and public relations chair, allowing me to see the hard work and dedication it takes to make ASU a great organization. With ASU, I was able to make an impact, create lifelong friendships and challenge myself in ways I never expected.

Throughout my years at UGA, I have supported various communities. As an RHA representative for ECV, I was able to vouch for my fellow residents in support for their concerns. As a Georgia football ambassador, I hosted recruits during game days, welcoming them to our school. During my sophomore year, I was selected to be part of a 20-member committee of students for the Student Health Advisory Committee, working as a voice of students in health center matters. I am currently a volunteer dental assistant for the Mercy Health Center, a free clinic to benefit those uninsured in Athens.

I was fortunate enough to become the lead student researcher in an undergraduate research project titled “Identifying and characterizing the reasons for success of black students in STEM fields.” As a black student in a STEM field myself, I hold this research dear to my heart as it highlights black students who prevail in STEM fields despite all odds. Through this research, I have learned many skills including how to make protocols, conduct interviews and code transcripts. Presenting my research at the Society for the Advancement of Biological Education Research conference (a national conference at the University of Minnesota) and receiving great feedback was a rewarding experience I will always cherish.

Read there whole thing - what a great UGA experience for this future dentist. We especially appreciate the reminder she provides about carving out personal time to rest and relax amidst the constant work behind her academic pursuits. Crucial for every student, and a true lifelong lesson we trust she carries forward.