Moyo Odugbemi 24C

I first learned about the Woodruff Dean’s Achievement Scholarships as I began my college journey from home during the pandemic. What initially caught my attention were the financial benefits, but the prospect of joining a vibrant community once I could go to campus truly excited me. So I applied to join the Woodruff Scholar Community as a sophomore. My first interaction with this community was during the annual Emory Scholars Program retreat, which was held virtually that year. Despite the distance, the passion, intelligence, and warmth that filled the Zoom rooms were undeniable. I remember one of the Scholar Fellows sending me a private message to set up lunch during a zoom meeting, and in that moment, I realized just how meaningful this community would become to me.

Being cozy in the Emory Scholars Lounge.

Inspired by this connection, I became a Scholar Fellow myself. For two years, I had the privilege of connecting undergraduate students with alumni, maintaining the alumni database, and staffing the beloved Scholar Lounge. The lounge became a special place for me, a cozy spot close to the BSA House, where I could study, get some snacks, and recharge between classes. As a personal de-stressing activity, I would occasionally do a deep clean of the lounge, making it even more of a home away from home.

One of the highlights of my time as a Woodruff Scholar was being awarded a study abroad scholarship the summer after my sophomore year. This opportunity funded my experience at the London School of Economics, where I was challenged academically and connected with students from all over the world. I even found a fondness for soccer after attending the Emirates Cup. It was a transformative experience that deepened my global perspective and reinforced the sense of community and growth I had found at Emory.

Woodruff Mixer during Emory Scholars Washington, D.C. trip in May 2024.

The London School of Economics was just one of the many opportunities I was fortunate to experience as a Woodruff Scholar. From a transformative trip to Washington, D.C., to the summer internship fund, and the incredible relationships I built with other scholars, each opportunity helped shape me academically and personally.

Over my time as a Woodruff Scholar, I came to realize that the Woodruff community is truly what you make of it. The opportunities for both academic and personal growth are endless, and my advice to current and future scholars is to embrace them fully. Engage with this rich and supportive community, and let the values that define a scholar—forceful and unselfish character, creativity and leadership, intellectual and personal vigor—guide your journey at Emory.

These years are an incredible foundation for whatever comes next, so take every chance to learn, connect, and grow. 

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