Obiageli Nwodoh

Tell us about your first encounter with MIT's OME Office.
My first encounter with the OME was during my campus preview weekend. I recall there was an information session for parents that I sat it on. The fact that MIT had an office of minority education was the first thing I noticed and I was intrigued to hear about the programs that it held.

What were your initial impressions?
I recall meeting Dean Crayton and loving her energy. In meeting the rest of the staff, I knew this would be an office I would return to for support throughout my time at MIT. Nothing has been more true than this. From that point on, I have always reveled in the immense support the OME shows for students.

Did those impressions change over time?
I underestimated the amount of help the OME would offer me. Everything from choosing my current academic advisor to planning for law school has been done with help from the OME. At first I believed that the OME primarily served people that did their major programs (such as Interphase EDGE). I was incredibly wrong about this and ended up benefiting a lot from their work even though I did a limited amount of programs.

What programs did you take part in, and how were they helpful?
The main programs I participated in TSR^2 and the IACME Diversity Networking Suite. These were helpful for different reasons. TSR offered me tutoring help and opened doors to collaborate with other students in ways I would not have otherwise. Sometimes it is really difficult to find people that are taking the same class as you are who can assist you in some way. TSR provided the opportunity to connect with students in this manner. The Diversity Networking Suite was a great opportunity to network. Outside of the huge career fair, it was great for practicing socializing in a professional manner and finding different career industries to potentially go into.

What was your most memorable or valuable experience with OME?
Staff within the OME have seen me at my lowest moments at MIT. I will always remember the appointments made to simply talk through difficult life situations.

If you had to describe OME with one word, what would it be?
Indispensable or irreplaceable.

For graduating seniors and alumni: What are you doing right now and post graduating MIT?
After I graduate, I know I want to go to law school and pursue a legal career. Before actually entering the school, I have absolutely no idea what I will do!

I definitely am very involved here at MIT! I am currently finishing up my degree in Physics and a minor in Political Science. I am also a Peer Career Advisor at the Career Advising and Professional Development (CAPD) office. Additionally, I am a Data Analyst Intern at the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund where I analyze data and find new ways to visualize and convey it in an intriguing manner. And last, but not least, I am a podcast hosts in the student life show called MIT Is…