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Scholarship Paves the Way to Helping Children in Need

Nicholas Oglesby, a junior pre-medicine student specializing in physiology, plans to become a pediatrician.

“I came to Southern Illinois University because I know SIU has been proven to get students prepared for the workforce and their career,” he said.

Oglesby is a recipient of the Bertrand scholarship.

“I was overjoyed because without the scholarship I more than likely would not have been able to attend this year. My parents have two children in college and they cannot afford to put both of us through school,” he said.

The dream of becoming a pediatrician is personal for Oglesby. He hopes to work with families in low-income areas to help ensure children have access to the health care they need. has big plans for his future once he graduates.

“Once I obtain my degree in physiology, I want to go to medical school and become a pediatrician. After I have enough experience, I am going to start my own affordable practice in East St. Louis, Illinois, where many people do not have the money or resources to get proper medical care,” he said.

Oglesby hopes some day he can give back and help others like he has been helped by the Bertrand scholarship.
“I appreciate this scholarship more than I can express and I am determined not to let your generosity go to waste,” he said.

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