For Chidinma Luciana Obika, education has been defined by determination and a sense of purpose. Obika, who is majoring in biology at Los Angeles Southwest College (LASC), plans to transfer to Cal Poly Pomona this spring to continue her studies in pre-medicine with an emphasis on biology and agriculture.
“I’ve always wanted to be a doctor,” she said. “But as I learned more, I saw how connected biology and agriculture are. Both study life—just in different ways. Understanding one helps you appreciate the other.”
Obika started her academic path at LASC in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. She faced the difficulties of remote learning and personal loss after her mother’s passing but remained committed to her goals. “There were tough times,” she said, “but I learned to take things one step at a time and keep going.”
Family support has played a significant role for Obika. She is the third of six siblings, each pursuing their own educational or professional paths: two older sisters studying nursing/psychology and law/society, an older brother serving in the U.S. Army, a younger brother also attending LASC for mechanical engineering, and a youngest sister enrolled at CAMS. “We’re all really supportive of each other,” she said. “And my dad hasn’t stopped bragging about me starting at Cal Poly Pomona!”
While at LASC, Obika participated in EOPS and TRiO Scholars programs and volunteered with the Financial Aid Office. She acknowledged the encouragement from faculty members, particularly Chemistry 51 instructor Mr. Amorin.
Her message to other students is clear: “Talk to your counselors, try new classes, and be kind. Every step teaches you something valuable and brings you closer to where you want to be.”
