Chiemeka Richard Ugochukwu

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“I arrived to the United States, December 2009, and started school spring of 2010. Coming from a country whose language and education system is different from the United States, I had to struggle to adapt quickly. I went from a student who struggled to hear what the professors were teaching to a student who was looked up to by other students for help. I even started an unofficial tutoring session for my fellow chemistry students. I believe in making a difference in the world and if at the end of the day I am asked what I think about life I would say, 'Life is an opportunity to make a difference in the world in your own little way.'”

  • Program: 2011 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
  • Resides: Athens, GA
  • Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
  • Age: 20

Biography

Profile: Chiemeka Ugochukwu came to America in 2009 to live with his uncle because of political and economic discord in his native land.  Georgia Perimeter College was a perfect fit for the young Nigerian.  When he arrived on campus, he had no idea how he was going to pay for his education and work toward his lifelong dream of becoming a physician, returning to his homeland, and serving his fellow Nigerians.  The Scholarship will help Chiemeka achieve the first steps in his goal, and if hard work and dedication mean anything at all, the young man will someday find his way into medical school.  Chiemeka was well known on the GPC campus, well liked, respected, and always willing to volunteer or tutor students who were having a tough time with courses he aced such as calculus and organic chemistry. 

Inspiration:  There have been numerous teachers and mentors who have been instrumental in Chiemeka’s success thus far. His uncle, Chirstian Ike, taught Chiemeka “about life and made me aim high.” Chiemeka’s chemistry professor, Anthony Ikaiddi, “was a wonderful teacher . . . and allayed my fears of the future.” Also at GPC, English Professor Rosemary Cox “sharpened my skills as a writer and believed in my ability.”  Finally, GPC Human Resources Director Amanda Reddick “has also been of immense help to me.” 

Aspiration:  Chiemeka hopes someday to become a doctor. He will first seek a bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of Georgia in Athens.

Making a Difference: Chiemeka is well aware of the sacrifices that American service men and women are making each day.  Through the Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Project at GPC, Chiemeka was involved in a program to write thousands of letters of appreciation to American soldiers and veterans.

Accolades:  Chiemeka was an active member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society on the GPC campus and was a regular on the college Dean’s List.  He also was presented the GPC Award for Leadership, Service, and Dedication.

Interesting Fact:  Chiemeka is an accomplished actor, something he loves to do. 

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