Each year, IU Indianapolis honors 100 outstanding undergraduate students who demonstrate excellence in three categories—academic excellence, campus leadership, and community engagement. These Top 100 Jags represent everything that makes IU Indianapolis exceptional.
Isaac Onwodi, who is pursuing a Traditional BSN with Honors at the IU School of Nursing, has been chosen as one of IU Indianapolis' Top 100 students for 2025. Below, learn more about Isaac’s journey at the IU School of Nursing at Indianapolis and the organizations and groups he's chosen to volunteer with during his time at IU Indianapolis.
What has been your favorite or most memorable class or educational opportunity while studying at the IU School of Nursing? Why?
My favorite educational opportunity at the IU School of Nursing has been serving as a Nursing School Ambassador. This role has transformed me both professionally and personally. I’ve learned the art of public speaking and how to adapt my communication style, whether I’m addressing a large auditorium of prospective students or having an intimate conversation with a nervous applicant and their family. It’s been incredibly rewarding to share my passion for nursing and help others see the potential in themselves.
What activities or organizations are you involved in, and why did you choose these groups?
I’m involved in a variety of activities and organizations, including serving as President of the Indiana Association of Nursing Students, an honors college scholar, a Nursing School Ambassador, a Norman Brown Diversity and Leadership Scholar, a Bonner Leader Scholar, an O’TEAM Peer Mentor, and a Trio Student Support Services Tutor for Human Anatomy and Finite Mathematics. I’m also a Paws Pantry Lead Volunteer, a Sam Masarachia Scholar, a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD) and Phi Eta Sigma (PES) Honor Societies, a Supreme Court Justice for the Undergraduate Student Government, a member of the University Hearing Commission, a member of the IU Indianapolis Funding Board, and a DEAP Scholar. I chose these groups because they align with my passions for leadership, service, and making a difference in my community.
Why was it important to you to take on extra activities and leadership roles while studying at IU Indianapolis and the IU School of Nursing?
Taking on extra activities and leadership roles was important to me because I wanted to grow as a person and make a positive impact on others and the IU Indianapolis community. These experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of collaboration, all of which have shaped me into the person and future nurse I aspire to be.
Who has inspired you during your nursing school journey?
I’ve been inspired by multiple upperclassmen nursing students who have shown me the value of involvement, hard work, and encouragement. Amare Dunlap, Andrei Kapunan, Dane Ceniza, Brooklyn Bussell, and Jacy Thomas have all motivated me to get more involved and strive for excellence. Their dedication and support have been invaluable to my journey.
What are your plans after completing your Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
After completing my BSN, I plan to work as an ICU nurse and eventually pursue CRNA school. I’m passionate about critical care and anesthesia, and I’m excited to continue growing in these areas.
What does the recognition of being a Top 100 student mean to you?
This recognition is truly an honor and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and support I’ve received throughout my academic journey. Being part of such an exceptional group of students inspires me to continue striving for excellence and making a positive impact in my community. I’m incredibly grateful to my professors, mentors, and peers who have encouraged me along the way. This achievement motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and embracing new opportunities as I work toward my goals.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’d like to share a message of motivation for anyone facing challenges, whether in nursing school or in life: Persistence is your greatest ally. There will be moments when the workload feels overwhelming, when self-doubt creeps in, or when the path ahead seems uncertain. But it’s in those moments that your resilience is being forged. Every late night studying, every difficult exam, and every obstacle you overcome is shaping you into a stronger, more capable individual. Remember, growth doesn’t happen in comfort—it happens when you push through the discomfort and keep moving forward.
