Commonwealth PhD Scholar, Charity from Nigeria, Completes Her Doctorate in Public Health & Health Promotion at Brunel University London

My name is Toluwalase Awoyemi, and I was born in Osogbo, Nigeria. I studied medicine at the University of Ibadan. During my training, I became fascinated by the heart both as an organ and as a symbol of life itself. That curiosity, combined with a growing passion for women’s heart health, led me to pursue a PhD in Women’s Health at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. My research explores the molecular biology of cardiovascular risk in pregnancy, particularly preeclampsia, a condition that continues to claim far too many maternal lives globally.

Rhodes Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Rhodes Scholarship to study at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. The Rhodes is a fully funded program that covers tuition, living expenses, and travel, but more importantly, it brings together a global community of people who are passionate about driving change in their fields. Being part of that community has been one of the most meaningful aspects of the experience.

Educational Background

I earned my MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) from the University of Ibadan, where I consistently ranked first in my class during my professional exams. After medical school, I worked as an intern in the university college hospital, Ibadan, the teaching hospital of the University of Ibadan, and then spent a year volunteering at a preventive health clinic that focused on identifying and managing cardiovascular risk factors. That experience made me realize how much more we need to understand about early risk detection, especially among women, and ultimately inspired the research I do today.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Oxford?

When I started thinking about postgraduate studies, I first looked for programs that combined my interests in cardiology, molecular biology, and maternal health. I spent time reading faculty profiles and research publications to understand where my work would fit best.

• Finding information: I learned about the Rhodes Scholarship while looking for another scholarship called the Schawarzman scholarship. I also visited the official Rhodes website and watched recordings of past scholar talks to get a sense of what they valued beyond grades.
• Standardized tests: Since I applied through the UK system, I didn’t need to take the GRE or TOEFL. My medical education was in English, so that met the language requirement.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Rhodes Scholarship?

My preparation was both academic and deeply personal. On one hand, I focused on strengthening my research background and leadership experiences. On the other hand, I took time to reflect on why I wanted the scholarship and what I hoped to contribute if given the opportunity. I spoke with mentors and past scholars who helped me refine my essays and practice for the interview. The process forced me to be honest about my goals, not just what I wanted to study, but why it mattered.

How Was Your Experience at Oxford?

Oxford has been both humbling and inspiring. The academic environment is intense in the best way possible. You’re surrounded by people doing extraordinary work, and that pushes you to think bigger. The mentorship here has been phenomenal, and the college system creates a strong sense of belonging. Beyond research, the Rhodes community has become like a second family, a network of people who genuinely care about making the world better.

How Do You Rate Oxford Academically and Why?

Oxford is exceptional not only because of its history but because of how it fosters intellectual curiosity. There’s room to think deeply and independently, yet support is always close by. The interdisciplinary culture is also something I’ve come to value deeply; it’s normal to have a conversation that connects biology, policy, and philosophy in the same breath.

How Does Oxford Support International Students?

The support for international students is strong. From visa guidance to welfare officers and dedicated international student advisors, the university really helps you transition smoothly. My college community was wonderful; they hosted events, checked in regularly, and ensured students felt like part of the Oxford family

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe it was the combination of academic consistency, authentic storytelling, and a clear sense of purpose. My experiences in medicine weren’t just a list of achievements; they formed a narrative about improving cardiovascular health for women. I think the selection committee saw that my motivation was genuine and that my work had both scientific and human depth.

What Would You Have Done Differently?

If I could redo anything, I’d start building relationships with mentors and recommenders even earlier. Having people who truly understand your work and aspirations makes your application much stronger. Their letters tell parts of your story that you can’t tell yourself.

What Advice Would You Give to Those Applying?

1. Know your story. Spend time understanding what drives you. That clarity will make your essays and interviews much more authentic.
2. Seek mentorship early. Reach out to people who’ve gone through the process. Most are happy to help.
3. Be coherent and sincere. Let your story flow naturally; the committee values honesty over perfection.
4. Start early. Give yourself time to reflect, revise, and prepare for interviews.
5. Remember: the journey matters too. Even if you don’t win, the self-discovery that comes from applying will shape you in powerful ways.