“My biggest hope was to show others how you can mix and match your interests with science to create and pursue unique career paths and opportunities,” says Ekeanyanwu. “I struggled more than I want to admit, and more than most people know, at various stages of my academic career, so being chosen to represent the Science class is such an honour.”
Now an Honours Science graduate, Ekeanyanwu was involved in many extra-curriculars during her degree, from the Biomedical Science Student Association to Residence Life. She was also provided leadership to initiatives related to ethnicity, race and activism, such as the African Student Association, the Black Medical Leaders of Tomorrow,Racial Advocacy for Inclusion, Solidarity and Equity(RAISE)and the Afro Fusion Dance Club. One day, she hopes to start a non-profit organization focused on creating mentorship opportunities for Black young professionals.
Despite her hesitancy and doubt at Waterloo, she persisted through them and states that, when looking back, there is nothing she would have done differently.
“Each fork in the road, each mental breakdown and all-nighter led me to where I am now,” says Ekeanyanwu. “And I am proud of where I am now. That for me is the true definition of success.”
While Ekeanyanwu will miss “living in the bubble tea capital of Canada,” she is looking forward to pursuing a law degree at Western University. With the fields of health and pharmaceutical law being of special interest, she is eager to use scientific background to increase equity and justice in the field of health care.