91ÊÓƵ

Fredrick Odezugo

Major: Biomedical Engineering
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria

Through the, Fredrick Odezugo builds bridges between his Nigerian heritage and his new home, his college and his community, and his enthusiasm for engineering and his heart for health care.

"As an international student at Rose, especially one from Africa, it has been challenging to adjust to the culture and the smaller-town environment," Odezugo said. "However, the Noblitt Scholars Program has helped ease this transition by providing a welcoming community and a supportive network."

"Through mentoring, group activities, and discussions with peers who share different backgrounds, I've felt more connected and understood. The program gave me a space to express my perspectives, which ultimately made the adjustment process smoother, both personally and academically."

Odezugo has shaped Rose into his home away from home, quickly getting involved in African Student Union and National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

"I am particularly excited about opportunities that bridge cultural identity towards professionalism," he said. 

He is also a member of the Rose Assembly of Catholic Disciples, through which he volunteers at a local shelter and promotes communal bonding by supporting others' personal and spiritual growth. 

Odezugo seizes every opportunity to connect campus to the community.

"The Noblitt Scholars Program emphasizes giving back to the community while promoting inclusivity and strong character in all environments," he said. "From teaching high school students chemistry to serving breakfast at Terre Haute Catholic foster homes, I've learned to connect with people from different backgrounds and learned empathy and respect."

Odezugo is also building bridges to his future, learning to link his love of leadership with his graduate school goals. 

Odezugo was selected as a , a program that provides students with early and involved research opportunities with faculty. 

"This has been an invaluable experience to me, as I’m passionate about applying engineering concepts to scientific research to tackle health care challenges," he said. "Being a [Rose Research] Fellow allows me to build laboratory skills and a deeper understanding of research methods and communication, both of which are essential for my future goals." 

In addition, Odezugo is part of , 91ÊÓƵ's first-year living-learning entrepreneurship program.

"I've learned to pitch ideas, analyze markets, and collaborate on real projects with peers and mentors," he said. “Being a part of this program provided me with an opportunity to work on funded personal startup projects through a summer ventureship, and most importantly, taught me how to bridge the gap between health care and entrepreneurship."

Odezugo is using his network and knowledge to connect diverse groups of people and interests, creating and crossing any bridge he encounters.