Student Story

Honors Program Takes Tema Fodje '19 to Uganda

Tema Fodje receiving an award at Commencement
Tema Fodje '19 and President Helen Drinan

I'm reminded daily that I hold a special place at Simmons and that I'm not just another student in the crowd. The people I've had the pleasure of meeting during my time here have made Simmons all the more important to me.

How did you choose your major?

I’ve always loved chemistry and the Simmons biochemistry program gives me the freedom to explore biology, chemistry, and my interest in public health. This program also fulfills pre-med requirements, which means that I’ll be well prepared when it’s time to apply to medical school. Overall, biochemistry gives me the flexibility to find myself and explore other interests, while fulfilling the hard science that I need. I'm also minoring in biostatistics.

What made you decide to join the Honors Program?

The many opportunities it offers students. The small cohort introduced me to people I wouldn’t have otherwise known, which I saw as a major advantage especially because I moved here from Georgia. Joining the Honors Program also gave me the opportunity to know the professors, especially those outside of my specific field of study, which has helped shape what I want to do with my future.

What's your favorite part about being in Honors?

The people I’ve met and opportunities I’ve received. Most of my closest friends at Simmons are those I met through Honors. Additionally, I’ve received amazing support for many opportunities, one of which was spending 2 months conducting biostatistical research in Uganda.

Tema Fodje in Uganda with elephant

What advice would you give to students considering applying to the Honors Program?

APPLY! I've never regretted applying to the Honors Program and cannot imagine my Simmons experience without it. Coming here made me who I am today and for that I am forever grateful. If you want the chance to enrich your experience in more ways than one, then you should definitely apply!

What is your dream job?

Working as a doctor serving communities of color and those who live in underserved communities in the U.S. Whether this means being a surgeon or an OB/GYN, I just know that I want to use my skills to help make a difference in the realms of health equity. Maybe this also means getting involved in policy, I haven't decided! There are so many possibilities.

What's your Simmons moment?

A big Simmons moment was planning the Black Student Organization's Intercollegiate Black Student Mixer. Being able to bring together Black and Brown students from all over the greater Boston area was amazing. At our individual schools we may make up a large percentage of the student population, but when we come together it's something extremely special. 

I'm reminded daily that I hold a special place at Simmons and that I'm not just another student in the crowd. The people I've had the pleasure of meeting during my time here have made Simmons all the more important to me. 

Publish Date