This episode of NUFRIENDS features a captivating conversation with O.A.J. Ige, a design staff at the Lamar Johnson Collaborative and a recent graduate in architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology. O.A.J. discusses his journey from Oyo State, Nigeria to becoming an architect in Chicago, his passion for leadership, and his commitment to impactful projects like Socially Constructed and Ige Lead, a non-profit focused on Nigeria. He shares insights into the architecture education process, the subjective nature of architectural design, and his thoughts on leadership inspired by his grandfather, Chief Bola Ige. O.A.J also discusses his work at Lamar Johnson Collaborative, his vision for the future of Nigerian leadership, and offers advice for aspiring architects on creativity, portfolio building, and the importance of networking and sleep.

00:00 Welcome to NUFRIENDS: Meet O.A.J. Ige

00:41 O.A.J. Ige: Background and Career in Architecture

01:20 The Journey from Nigeria to Chicago: O.A.J.'s Architectural Dream

02:10 Understanding Architecture: O.A.J.'s Perspective

02:53 The Rigors and Rewards of Architecture School

05:48 O.A.J.'s Architectural Inspirations and Favorite Buildings

07:02 Professional Life: Working at Lamar Johnson Collaborative

08:05 The Path to Becoming a Licensed Architect

09:07 Beyond Architecture: Leadership and Legacy

10:30 IgeLead: Fostering Leadership in Nigerian Youth

15:12 Creative Pursuits and Socially Constructed Events

16:56 Advice for Aspiring Architects

20:15 O.A.J.'s Final Thoughts and Advice on Sleep

0:00 NUFI: Surayya W

00:07 Introduction and Guest Background

02:01 High School Experiences and Leadership Lessons

03:30 Challenges and Growth in Leadership

06:37 Exploring Interests and Entrepreneurial Spirit

08:32 Journey to University and Overcoming Doubts

11:32 Navigating University Life and Challenges

14:30 Finding Authenticity and Building Connections

18:28 Reflections on University Culture and Future Predictions

24:11 The Power of Influence and Authentic Storytelling

24:38 The Struggle of Job Hunting and Corporate Culture

26:04 Venturing into Entrepreneurship

27:11 The Journey of Building Multiple Organizations

29:38 The Art of Balancing Ideas and Execution

33:28 Building a Network and Personal Brand

41:51 The Importance of Sales in Business

44:29 Defining Success and Dealing with Feedback

47:32 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

49:03 Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:20 Early Life and Influences

01:12 Discovering a Passion for Journalism02:01 Choosing the Right University

04:36 Experiences at Howard University

07:02 Role in Student Council and Impact on Campus

07:43 Transition into Professional Life

08:18 Challenges and Lessons in the Corporate World

12:12 Current Role and Future Aspirations

17:47 Building Connections and Moving to Chicago

18:03 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking

18:40 Reaching Out and Cold Contacting

18:49 Short Term and Long Term Goals in Corporate

18:58 Understanding Corporate Structure and Growth

20:02 Transitioning from Corporate to Creative

20:58 The Role of Agencies in Creative Industries

21:56 Exploring Creative Endeavors and Collaborations

22:33 The Journey of Building a Creative Career

25:04 The Power of Networking and Collaboration

26:40 The Intersection of Corporate and Creative

27:03 The Importance of Empathy and Communication in Creative Spaces

31:57 The Future of Creative Career and Trusting Your Gut

34:13 Final Thoughts and Advice

Join NUFRIENDS as we put the spotlight on Yohanes Addis, an incoming M1 student at St. George's School of Medicine. Listen as Yohanes shares his inspirational journey, navigating the challenges of being an Ethiopian immigrant, a collegiate athlete, a biochemistry student, and a type 1 diabetic, while also preparing to enter one of the most rigorous professions in the world – medicine. Get inspired by Yohanes's determination to balance different aspects of his life while maintaining focus on his ultimate goal. Get insights into how Yohanes leveraged school resources, embraced the opportunities for growth, and utilized his unique experiences to stand out in his med school application. Tune in to this enlightening conversation filled with wisdom on hard work, perseverance, genuine curiosity, and the importance of leveraging opportunities.

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:55 Life Lessons from Basketball

02:49 Leveraging Relationships and Office Hours

04:06 The Power of Genuine Curiosity

05:01 Leveraging Opportunities and Building Connections

07:06 The Impact of Immigrant Background and Family

08:32 The Importance of Education and Learning

10:38 Experience in Organic Chemistry Research

14:22 Balancing Athletics and Academics

16:39 The Journey to Becoming a Doctor

17:41 The Role of Social Media in Medical Journey

19:17 Preparing for the MCAT

23:26 Choosing a Medical School

26:57 Living with Type 1 Diabetes

28:39 Role Models and Inspirations

29:49 Final Words of Encouragement