Q&A with graduating GPS Scholar Chisohlm Chukwu
Posted: May 7, 2020
A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH) student Chisohlm Chukwu, D4, will graduate Friday and soon begin the next steps in his professional career.
Chukwu was a recipient of ATSU’s Graduate Health Professions Scholarship (GPS). The GPS program is designed to accentuate the University’s unique mission of service and leadership in whole person healthcare. This tuition scholarship is a targeted approach to attract and educate students whose life contributions and experiences are consistent with the ATSU mission to serve in underserved areas. The GPS was created for historically underrepresented groups and/or underrepresented minority groups.
Chukwu took some time to respond to questions about his time at ATSU, importance of GPS, and his future plans.
Q: What was the biggest obstacle that stood in the way of your dream of becoming a dentist? How were you able to overcome that obstacle?
A: The biggest obstacle was time management. I just had to adjust to the busy life of dental school by having a plan every day, and goals.
Q: How did the GPS program affect you?
A: For the most part, GPS was more like a community to lean on. So, it did affect me in so many ways. Mr. Clinton (Normore, MBA, ATSU associate vice president for diversity & inclusion) was awesome. He provided a lot of support, morally and otherwise.
Q: What are some of your greatest achievements throughout your time at ATSU?
A: Matching into residency and receiving the award for best oral surgery dental student at ATSU.
Q: What advice would you give to other students who are interested in attending dental school, but might be struggling to make that dream a reality?
A: It’s a tough process. For some, it works right away. For some, it doesn’t. But one thing that doesn’t change is being true to yourself. Be ready, so when the opportunity comes, you can take it. Luck is that opportunity that you prepared for.
Q: What’s next for you following graduation?
A: After four years of hard work that paid off, I am starting residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery. I would encourage any aspiring oral surgeon not to hesitate reaching out to me.