(Photo courtesy of UMass Lowell) “UML’s north campus is home to its STEM program.”
Osahuese Ogbesoyen
Connector Editor
A comment asked to nearly everyone growing up is: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The answer can change from childhood to adulthood. Osa Woghiren, a student at UMass Lowell, found her journey to public health as a process of self-discovery. After seeking advice from family and peers, some of whom were also on the premed track, she discovered a more flexible yet equally rigorous option, majoring in public health while completing her medical school prerequisites. Like the average college student, Woghiren changed her major from applied biomedical science to public health. This decision allowed her to explore broader healthcare topics like disease control and environmental science while still preparing for the MCAT.
For Osa, the most rewarding aspect of her major is its duality. “Public health allows me to take mental breaks from my intensive pre-med coursework,” she explains. “While subjects like chemistry and biology can be overwhelming, public health introduces different perspectives on healthcare, helping me understand how medical issues affect entire communities.” She has loved medicine since she was a child, and this new academic path has strengthened her decision to become a doctor.
Despite her enthusiasm, Osa acknowledges the challenges that come with being a STEM student. One of the biggest issues was finding effective study methods that worked for her. “The internet offers so many study techniques, but discovering which one suited me took time,” she admits. “I knew I was capable of learning the material, but I struggled with figuring out the best way to absorb it.” Through trial and error, she developed strong study habits and found motivation in friends who share her academic goals. “For me and my friends, hanging out often means studying together. They push me to stay on top of my work while making it enjoyable.”
As a Black woman in STEM, Osa has found inspiration in seeing other women taking on rigorous coursework. “When I see other women excelling in STEM, it makes me want to push myself even harder,” she says. She appreciates UMass Lowell’s efforts in promoting diversity, noting that she has never felt out of place in her classes. However, like many aspiring medical students, she has experienced moments of self-doubt. The daunting prospect of medical school sometimes feels overwhelming, but she finds reassurance in connecting with others who share the same challenges. “Going to tutoring and meeting people who struggle with the same concepts but still push forward has helped me stay motivated.”
Looking ahead, Osa aspires to become a hematologist. Her coursework at UMass Lowell equips her with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in medical school. She offers a simple but crucial piece of advice to other students in STEM: “Never think you’re too good to review your notes. You’re never over prepared for an exam.”
Osa’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and passion. By continuing her premed route and adopting a public health perspective on healthcare, she is paving the way for a significant influence in the medical industry. Osa’s answer to her future career goals remains unwavering however, she has learned that the path to med school can look a bit different for everyone.
