Tempestt Nwachukwu

Hometown - Lawrenceville, GA

Undergraduate Institution - Georgia Gwinnett College

Class of 2024

Why did you pursue podiatric medicine?

I like the variability podiatric medicine offers to me. I like how I can be involved in a surgical specialty and have the option of possibly subspecializing. You can work more, or you can work less. You have the option of working at a private practice, surgical center, or hospital or all of the above if you would like to. Podiatry has a lot to offer and it is really up to the individual with what he or she wants to do in the field.

Why did you choose Kent State?

I chose KSUCPM because of the strong sense of community here. I really loved how the students here appeared to be very close and supportive of one another. This was a very important aspect for me. I knew I needed that in order to be successful and comfortable at a medical institution. On top of that, I really liked how involved students are able to be in various school activities and organizations as well as getting academic support.

Favorite aspect of Kent State now that you are a student here?

I really like how I am able to have access to tutoring! And I like how supportive and involved the admissions staff still is even after I have matriculated into the program. They really are here to help you throughout your medical education if you ever have any questions along the way. Also, talking to the upperclassmen has been enlightening. Seriously, all of the upperclassmen are very knowledgeable and want to help you succeed here. 

What advice do you have for anyone considering podiatry school?

I would say that you should find out as much information about the field on your own. Find DPMs to shadow. Ask questions. The field of podiatry has a lot to offer to students and keeps changing.

Have you begun to prepare Boards yet?  If so, what are you doing in terms of preparation? Any advice?

I haven’t started preparing for board exams yet, BUT I do know that most of the classes I am taking first year will be tested on our board exams. So what I am trying to do is to try to keep my notes organized and if/when material gets “starred” “bolded” or “underlined” because it has been tested on the boards, then I try to make sure I understand it and remember it for the future. I think this will make reviewing and studying for board exams a little less overwhelming.

How do you strike a balance between class work, studying, and social activities?

Everything is doable and can be balanced. You really just need to keep track of your distribution of time because there really aren’t enough hours in the day haha. But you can be involved with school activities and have a social life. You just need to make sure school is your priority (don’t fall behind and stay organized!)

Any suggestions for prospective students on building/ maintaining a balance?

Make a schedule! Get a planner! Seriously, having a set schedule will help you get into a routine. You will like being able to see which days you actually have some time for yourself, to study, get involved, spend time with friends, family, etc. It may seem like something that can be overlooked, but it really does come in handy to help you balance out your time.

What one word describes you best?

Dedicated

What are some activities you are involved in at KSUCPM?

I am a student ambassador for KSUCPM and I joined ACFAS! I am hoping to possibly get a little more involved with school as time progresses.

As a first-year student, what are some of the challenges you faced (if any) while transitioning into medical school?

I have been out of school for a few years and have been working. So I was a little nervous about getting back into school (especially since it has been the most rigorous academic program I have ever been in). I had to mentally prepare myself for it especially since I was starting medical school with a global pandemic (thank you COVID-19 haha). Ultimately, that has probably been the biggest thing to deal with: wearing the PPE and social distancing. Social distancing has been pretty difficult for us as a class because it has made it difficult for us to really get together as a class and get to know one another. However, we have all been trying our best to make it work.  We have been trying to make the best out of this whole situation. I know myself and other first year students are just grateful that we have been able to learn anatomy with the cadavers and have adjusted to having most of our classes online. The administration and upperclassmen have also been very understanding to our situation.

My advice to future students would be to come to school with an open mind knowing that COVID-19 has changed learning for the entire medical community. If COVID-19 continues to be a major problem in the world, then I would not be surprised that most classes will continue to be online. Know and mentally accept that before matriculating. Know that you will have to take your exams online at home. Know that you will more than likely have to participate in most social events that are school related virtually/online. Know that you must invest in a very good internet connection because that is how you will be learning. Remember that you are not alone. There are tons of other professional students going through the same thing as you. Know that members of your class are experiencing the same things as you. Remember that us first years, the Class of 2024, know first-hand how weird, scary, and challenging all of this may seem. But you can reach out to us because we are here for you.

What one word describes KSUCPM?

Community

What advice would you offer to any prospective students wishing to attend KSUCPM who are in the current application process?

I would say that you should definitely reach out to the admissions office. Ask them any questions you may have about the program. Be open. Be honest. If you are interested in talking to a current student here, such as myself, then feel free to get in touch with the admissions office to set something up!

Most challenging course and why?

It probably has to be anatomy hands down. It is very demanding and consists of 8 credit hours. I know I have to put a lot of time and energy into studying human anatomy. BUT I also know that I cannot neglect embryology because that course is tied in with anatomy for the lecture component.

Favorites

Movie - Halloween (1978) (I love horror movies!)

Song - Pokerface by Lady Gaga

Starbucks Drink - hot chocolate (I am not a coffee person haha)

Book - Storm of the Century by Stephen King

Season - Winter (because of Christmas!)

Science course - Human Anatomy