183 Emeka Onwudiwe
In this powerful episode, we follow the inspiring and deeply personal story of Emeka Onwudiwe, a pharmacy student at the University of East Anglia. Emeka shares how he went from failing his GCSEs and taking an unexpected path through a BTEC in Health and Social Care to becoming the National President of the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA). This episode is more than just a story of academic redemption—it's a masterclass in grit, purpose-driven leadership, and transforming personal challenges into powerful opportunities for growth. Emeka’s vulnerability and strength shine through as he reflects on overcoming academic setbacks, navigating grief, finding his voice, and making a national impact as a student leader. If you’re a student doubting your abilities or questioning your path, this conversation will reignite your belief in what’s possible.
👩🏽⚕️ This is not your typical pharmacy journey. Emeka opens up about:
Failing GCSEs and taking the non-traditional BTEC route
Discovering pharmacy later than most through a foundation year
Struggling with time management and reassessments
Learning to study smarter (hello, active recall + question-based revision)
Leading with purpose, including hosting a sickle cell conference in memory of a friend
Stepping up from Aero Coordinator to BPSA President
Why removing "I can't" from his mindset changed everything
💥 This episode is a must-listen for students who:
Worry about falling behind or taking the "wrong" route
Feel lost with study strategies or fail exams
Want to apply for student leadership roles but feel intimidated
Need real talk on resilience, purpose, and personal growth
🎓 Whether you’re in your first year of pharmacy or preparing for registration, this episode will inspire you to rethink what's possible—no matter where you’re starting from.
💡 Sleep Better, Work Smarter
If you're a pharmacy student or pharmacist spending long hours in front of a screen (especially in the evenings like I do when working on the podcast!), I highly recommend checking out the blue light blocking glasses from Ocushield. They've made a huge difference to my sleep quality and reduced my eye fatigue—plus, the frames are super stylish!
🎁 I've found a 20% off family & friends discount that you can access through the link below. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
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PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH EMEKA:
Linkedin: Emeka Onwudiwe
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
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