Ridwan Oyebamiji

Institution: Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville

Ridwan Oyebamiji is a junior at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, pursuing a degree in biomedical science with minors in chemistry, public health, and forensic science. At SIUE, Ridwan is active in various organizations, including the Pre-Health Hub and Muslim Student Association. He also works as a research assistant in the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) program and is a Supplemental Instruction Leader and Team Leader for biology and organic chemistry classes. Outside of SIUE, Ridwan is involved in the Muslim Interscholastic Competition of St. Louis and teaches Qur’an at Al-Iman Saturday School.

Ridwan first became interested in pursuing a career in medicine after tearing his lateral meniscus while playing soccer in high school. The sense of ‘helplessness’ he experienced during his recovery ignited his passion for serving others with similar experiences through medicine, especially those in marginalized groups. He is highly passionate about topics in microbiology and infectious diseases, immunology, and physiology.

During his free time, Ridwan enjoys playing soccer, basketball, and reading.