Nkiru (Kiki) Osude

Kiki Osude’s Philosophy: ‘Why Not?’

B.A./M.D. in Six-Year Program | Year 4 | School of Medicine
Graduation Year: 2017

Where is UMKC taking you?

UMKC is taking me to a career as an academic physician and a culturally competent physician. I’m interested in “butts and guts,” otherwise known as GI. I like gastroenterology because it’s really conceptual; it’s like a mystery. Everyone manifests differently, so you have to rule things out.

How has college inspired you?

UMKC has inspired me to have a “why not?” kind of attitude. As the years have passed, I have been presented with many different opportunities in school that at first used to intimidate me. But as time passed, I gained the confidence in myself to say “why not?” Why not strive to learn as much in clinic? Why not form a rapport with my patients? Why not try to get a high board score? I honestly see no reason not to.

 

 

“UMKC has inspired me to have a “why not?” kind of attitude. As the years have passed, I have been presented with many different opportunities in school that at first used to intimidate me. But as time passed, I gained the confidence in myself to say “why not?” Why not strive to learn as much in clinic? Why not form a rapport with my patients? Why not try to get a high board score? I honestly see no reason not to.”

 

Since entering college, what have you learned about yourself?

I have learned that I do best in school when I have a life outside of my studies. When I set aside time in my day for exercise, relationships, TV and my other guilty pleasures, I feel more at ease. I‘ve tried to have school be my everything, but it didn’t work out so well.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received from a professor?

Before you say yes to an opportunity, be prepared to say no to another.

Kiki's hands

Who do you admire most at UMKC?

I admire the faculty who are deliberately placed in the students’ lives. From my adviser, to my docent to even my old biochem teacher,  I can honestly say that I have people rooting for me within UMKC’s walls who don’t just care about my grades, but who care about me and my personal aspirations.

What’s your greatest fear?

I have a strong support system back at home in Chicago. My family and my best friend mean the world to me. My greatest fear is that as I advance in my education and my career goals, I won’t necessarily have the freedom to be there for them in the same way they are for me.

What excites you?

In addition to teaching medical students and being a GI doctor, I get excited about being a medical missionary, perhaps in Haiti or South America. I want to step into a village or orphanage and love those people, because we are all human.

What is one word that best describes you and why?

Passionate. This word describes every aspect of my life. I am passionate about my studies and my rotations. I am passionate about my faith, family and friends. I am passionate about my “me” time and the small things that make me happy. I mean, what is the point of investing your time in things if you don’t find joy in doing them?

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