Mercy Lubeju is a sophomore majoring in biomedical science at Southeast Missouri State University. Her goal is to become a neurosurgeon. A pursuit developed out of a necessity observed in her home country of Zimbabwe where resources make it difficult for everyone to receive adequate healthcare.
“We had three neurosurgeons operating for ten provinces and that didn’t really work. I want to
be part of the neurosurgeons in Zimbabwe and help reduce the high mortality rate for neuro
disorders and accidents that affect the brain,” said Lubeju.
As Lubeju began her college search, she considered academics, as well as cost but said she
ultimately chose Southeast for the traditions and diversity.
“The traditions such as the gum tree as well as the Rowdy Crowd,” said Lubeju, “were appealing
to me because they made me feel that I will always have something in common with someone
when I am far away from home. The Rowdy Crowd gave me the sense of a family.”753913060
Lubeju said beyond its traditions she recognized Southeast’s sense of diversity.
“I saw a lot of religions, groups, different people, and I don’t remember how many countries and
international students. It felt like home to me,” she said.
Once she found her home at Southeast, Lubeju began exploring the various groups on campus.
She completed the First-Year Leadership Program and joined the Outdoor Club, the Rock
Climbing Club, Red Cross Club, Student Government Funding Board, Emerging Leaders, and is
officer in both the International Student Association as well as the Health and Awareness Club.
Lubeju credits the leadership programs, First-Year Leadership Program and the Emerging
Leaders Program, for preparing her to take the next step in becoming a surgeon.
“The leadership programs really prepared me to be someone who is open to other people and
who can share their experiences because most people, they get motivated by what you’ve done
and how you’ve come through some situations. That’s how some patients help themselves
recover,” she said