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LSU Students Win National Scholarships
Jacob Landry’s story is one of a small-town boy with big-time dreams of running for political office. For Nneamaka Agochukwu, it is one of standing beside her brother as he battles cancer and wondering how she could use science to make it all go away. Two phenomenal students with very different dreams - so what’s their commonality? During the 2005 spring semester, both Jacob and Nneamaka learned they were one step closer to accomplishing their dream. Jacob was named a recipient of the Truman Scholarship and Nneamaka was named a recipient of the Goldwater Scholarship. Both scholarships grant national recognition to outstanding students. The Truman Scholarship focuses on students who have exceptional leadership potential and are committed to public service, while the Goldwater scholarship highlights students who wish to pursue careers in science, mathematics, or engineering.
“Everyday, as I do my research at LSU, it never ceases to amaze me when I think about what I’m really doing,” Nneamaka explained. “My research is significant and is what gives me a competitive edge in the national arena. I never thought that would happen as an undergraduate student.” “Nneamaka’s productivity in the laboratory has not only contributed to her success, but to my success as a researcher,” explains David Donze, professor of biological sciences. “However, the major benefit may be yet to come, as Nneamaka goes on to a successful and prominent career, her future success will reflect well on LSU and on the academic training she received here.” In addition to their scholarly activities, the students’ work outside the classroom had an impact on their selection as scholarship recipients. “Over the past five years, I’ve been a volunteer for the March of Dimes. I’m also on the National Youth Council as well as LSU Student Government,” said Jacob. “I believe staying involved has helped me to build a resume that sets me apart from others in competitions such as these.”
“Jacob is a shining example of LSU’s best and brightest, able to compete and be recognized at the national level. We are so proud of his accomplishments and his vision and thankful that he intends to return to Louisiana after his graduate studies to serve the people of his home state,” said
Drew Lamonica Arms, director of fellowship advising for the LSU
Honors Jacob and Nneamaka both admit that it is not easy, but they believe you have to work hard to make your dreams come true. “I’ve made a concerted effort to take advantage of every opportunity that has come my way,” said Jacob. “I meet too many people who tell me that they wish they’d have done this or that when they were younger, and I don’t want to ever catch myself saying that.”
Combined, Jacob and Nneamaka will receive more than $45,000 in educational funding assistance plus countless opportunities that have opened up as a result of winning these scholarships. “I now know that anything is possible. I’ve realized that even though LSU is a big school, you can dare to dream here and do whatever you put your mind to,” said Nneamaka. “Once you express your interest and realize your dream, doors will open and you will achieve and do things you never thought possible.” Contact Rebecca Acosta | LSU
University Relations Related Links LSU Honors College |
Jacob is planning to pursue a master’s in public affairs and possibly a law degree. He would eventually like to return to Louisiana to work in public policy and run for public office. Nneamaka plans to attend medical school and become a clinical physician to treat diabetes and cancer patients. Eventually, she would like to travel back to Nigeria and open a clinic offering free healthcare and guidance in preventive medicine. 
