Cynthia Okoli, a Nigerian student at Oxford Brookes University, has been honoured with a national research award for her work on a clinical trial in Oxfordshire.
Okoli initially pursued a degree in business administration but later switched to an MSc in mental health nursing after working as a part-time support worker on mental health wards.
Arriving in the UK in 2019 as an international student, Okoli initially pursued an MBA program at the University of South Wales.
However, her career trajectory shifted when she encountered a group of nurses who inspired her to pursue mental health nursing.
Reflecting on her experience, Okoli noted the lack of mental health provisions and persistent stigma surrounding mental health issues in Nigeria, which further motivated her decision to transition into nursing.
As part of her studies, she undertook a Mental Health Student Hybrid (MESH) placement at Oxford’s Warneford Hospital, where she gained valuable research experience alongside her clinical placements.
Her research focused on the use of ketamine as a treatment for severe depression, and she actively participated in various research processes, including screening potential participants for the clinical trial.
Okoli’s dedication and engagement in her research led her to be recognized with the ‘Most Engaged MESH Student’ national award for her outstanding work in the clinical trial.
Okoli is set to attend the Student Nursing Times Awards ceremony in London on April 26, where she will be celebrated for her achievements in mental health nursing research.