Every medical student has a story—one filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments that shape their journey. This week, we sit down with Shaba Samuel, a dedicated and inspiring medical student, to get a glimpse into his world. From the rigorous demands of medical school to his personal interests and aspirations, Shaba shares his experiences, insights, and what keeps him motivated. Join us as we uncover his story, his thoughts on the medical field, and his advice for fellow students.
MediVoice: Let’s kick things off—how would you introduce yourself in your own words?
POTW: I am Shaba Samuel Oluwagbemiga, a member of the Invictus Class from the best state in Nigeria, Ondo State. I am an introvert with a touch of being active on WhatsApp groups and a calm man also. I am an advocate of good leadership because leadership determines the outcomes of our society, starting from the family (the cell of society).
MediVoice: Everybody with hyping their own state pliks, can we hear word? So, can you share what went through your mind when that long-awaited med school acceptance arrived?
POTW: I was glad to get admission after failed previous attempts. It was the fruit of the first time I had to show persistence and consistency in achieving an academic goal. It is also a joy that many after me (especially in my locality) will have someone they can look up to and communicate with because I did not have anyone close to me studying medicine at that time. In summary, it was a testament that it is possible from anywhere, and it can happen with you too.
MediVoice: ” It is possible from anywhere” Word!!!! Make I use this one hold body for the week. So, what was it that first ignited your passion for medicine, and how has the journey been unfolding so far?
POTW: Well, growing up, I did not speak much about my ambition to study medicine because I was afraid—what if I didn’t get it? I would then look like a failure. This was because I had no one around me studying medicine. That left a question in my heart—was it impossible? These people were good, so why didn’t they make it? But thank God for the great minds around me. They saw something in me and said, “You can study medicine.” That caused a shift in my heart and brought to life my passion for medicine.The journey has been great so far. Part 1 was the ‘enjoyment’ year. Preclinical—hmm—it has been full of ups only (smiles). I thank God for the men and women He has surrounded me with. People are invaluable gifts, especially here in college.
MediVoice: Eiiiii!!! Shey ups only dey possible for this college? God of ups locate me ooo. Moving on, when you’re not immersed in the world of medicine, what fun skills or hobbies do you enjoy exploring?
POTW: Discussing politics and leadership, writing, and cooking
MediVoice: Sabi guy. How do you like to spend your weekends when you’re off the clock—any quirky routines or favorite pastimes?
POTW: My weekends? Nice one. Doing some abandoned home chores for the week, preparing for Sunday service in church, and reading sometimes.
MediVoice: Must reading always spoil the fun? Make person breathe small now.If you hadn’t chosen medicine, which other career paths might have caught your interest?
POTW: Human Rights Law or Business Administration
MediVoice: Shaba Samuel, I want to take you to the world of imagination, come with me. Imagine having dinner with any renowned doctor or scientist—who would it be, and what intriguing conversation would you love to have?
POTW: Dr. Oluyinka Olutoye (an alumnus of OAU Medicine). He started right here in OAU. He has a similar background, and I see him as someone like me. It would be an honor to meet and learn from his wealth of knowledge.
MediVoice: I didn’t see that coming, that’s splendid. In just three words, how would you capture the essence of who you are?
POTW: Passionate about Dreams-Fulfillment.
MediVoice: Joseph reincarnated 😅. If you could work at any hospital in the world, where would you go, and what draws you to that choice?
POTW: Johns Hopkins. I love the U.S., and I admire its rich history in raising trailblazers in medicine.
MediVoice: If that wasn’t your response, I would have been highly surprised😅. Going forward, what’s one medical breakthrough or innovation that’s really sparked your excitement?
POTW: Separation of Siamese twins.
MediVoice: Ben Carson must sha enter the equation, that’s one interesting breakthrough though. If you could whisper a piece of advice to your younger self and share a nugget of wisdom with your future self, what would those be?
POTW: To my younger self: Stay focused. You need more focus than you need more dreams because dreams do not fulfill themselves.To my older self: Don’t lose your vision, don’t lose your standard, and don’t lose your discipline. Compromises will come to trade your discipline for some measure of success. Don’t lose YOURSELF for some “success.”
MediVoice: Lastly, before we wrap up, is there anyone you’d like to give a big shout-out to for being part of your journey?
POTW: Shout out to all my seniors. I didn’t know how much I was loved until incourses came, and checkup messages were everywhere. And also to my Invictus Chiefs—I love you all! 🥰
MediVoice: College is a family indeed.
Finally, You can connect with Shaba Samuel here. Add to your IFUMSAITE network. Check out other IFUMSAITEs here as well. Until next time, Ciao.
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