Chioma Stephanie Okpalaora studies the careful management of blood-thinning medications before procedures, echoing her personal experience maintaining balance while navigating life and a new healthcare system.

Where are you from?

I’m from Anambra, which is in the south-eastern part of Nigeria, born and raised in Lagos, Africa’s most populous city. The people of St. John’s are warm and friendly, which has made settling very easy for me. There’s a strong sense of community and I also like the natural beauty (tourist spots) of the province.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I love cooking/baking, and spending time with family. I also love hiking when the weather is lovely.

Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?

From a young age, I’ve been passionate about improving health systems and achieving positive clinical outcomes. What inspired me most was seeing the relief and hope on people’s faces when they recovered from illness, which fueled my decision to pursue pharmacy as an undergraduate degree. I’ve always been fascinated by the science of medicine; how they are prepared, dispensed, and used safely, as well as the vital role pharmacists play in patient education, safety, and treatment optimization.

My clinical practice in Nigeria truly solidified my decision to pursue a graduate degree. I encountered several systemic challenges, including limited access to updated clinical guidelines, underutilization of pharmacists in direct patient care, and inconsistencies in managing complex therapies such as anticoagulation, diabetes, etc. These gaps highlighted a need for stronger interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based approaches within the healthcare system.

Driven by a desire to be part of the solution, I chose to further my education so I could make a meaningful contribution to patient care and healthcare delivery. Memorial University’s Graduate Studies offers a platform to deepen my clinical expertise, build research capacity, and address real-world healthcare issues through the perspectives of both patients and professionals. My goal is to use this knowledge to advocate for more integrated, pharmacist-led models of care, advocate for policies to expand pharmacists' roles, and enhance patient safety.

Why did you choose Memorial University for your graduate studies?

Memorial University has a strong reputation for supporting healthcare research with incredibly supportive and knowledgeable faculty to guide one through their graduate studies. The sense of academic community and access to experienced supervisors made it an easy choice.

What is your research/thesis about? How do you describe your research to a general audience with no background in the field?

My thesis focuses on the experiences, barriers, and facilitators faced by pharmacists in periprocedural anticoagulation management. In simple terms, I’m exploring how pharmacists help manage blood-thinning medications safely before surgical or invasive procedures. This is important because it helps prevent complications like bleeding or recurrent blood clots, thereby improving patient and clinical outcomes.

How would you describe your experience as a graduate student at Memorial?

It’s been an exciting and rewarding journey. The university offers a supportive environment with access to excellent resources and faculty. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet peers from diverse backgrounds, interact with faculty members, and attend seminars, which have enriched my learning experience and graduate journey at Memorial University.

What scholarships or awards have you received?

I received the Dr. Mohsen Daneshtalab Graduate Entrance Award.

Have you faced any challenges in life that you’ve overcome to pursue graduate studies?

Yes, balancing academic demands with personal responsibilities has been challenging at times. But with determination and support from my family and faculty, I’ve been able to stay focused and motivated throughout my program, ensuring work-life balance.

What career path are you interested in pursuing after graduation?

I’m interested in a career that blends clinical pharmacy practice with research and education. Ideally, I’d like to work in a healthcare setting where I can contribute to evidence-based practice and also mentor future pharmacy professionals.

What advice would you give to current or future graduate students?

Stay motivated and focused on your goal. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek advice, it makes a big difference. And remember to celebrate your small wins along the way. Also, TAKE THAT BOLD STEP TODAY!

Anything else you would like to share?

Graduate school is not just about academics; it’s also about personal growth. Take the time to enjoy the journey, connect with people, and explore the beautiful place you’re studying in.

Become a graduate student at Memorial. Apply online today!