Blessing Ogbemudia, M.D., earned his undergraduate degree at Ohio State University and attended Indiana University for medical school. This past spring, he was honored by the UF Health nursing staff with the LEAD Resident Award for his outstanding performance in promoting high-quality patient care.
He is now in his second year in our program. We asked him a few questions about his experience in our anesthesiology residency program so far and his advice for others.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I was born in Nigeria and immigrated to the United States with my family when I was 5 years old. I grew up around Atlanta, GA.
Q: Why did you choose UF for residency?
A: During my in-person interview BC (Before Covid), I was impressed by the warm, welcoming, and collegial atmosphere within UF’s Department of Anesthesiology. I was confident I would be challenged and would obtain exceptional training to become the best anesthesiologist I could be given that UF is a large academic institution with diverse and complex clinical opportunities. I learned that I would have access to and be working alongside and learning from world-renowned faculty, pioneers, and experts within the field of anesthesiology, which attracted me even more. The department seemed supportive of the residents and when interacting with them and seeing their genuine excitement on that interview, I knew that it would be a great fit. So far, I am loving every bit of the decision.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in applying for UF’s residency program?
A: My advice for someone interested in applying to UF’s residency program is to just apply. UF is a competitive and prestigious program; however, that should not deter you from applying. I love that UF takes a holistic approach when reviewing candidates. The recruitment team truly seeks applicants who are hardworking, team-oriented, well-rounded and would be a great addition to the program. This advice applies to any program out there. I would advise applicants to do their research and reach out to current residents at any institution you might be interested in and ask tons of questions to obtain more details.
Q: What is one highlight of your time in the residency program so far?
A: Now that I am finished with intern year and new to focusing solely on the anesthesiology part of my residency, my highlight is more of a daily highlight and reminder. During these first few months of learning anesthesiology as a PGY2/CA1, I have been blessed to work with various attendings, senior residents, and former residents who are now attendings. It has been amazing. Everyone has been helpful with the transition, and I have been finding joy soaking in all the various styles of performing anesthesia.
Q: What is one of your future goals for 5 to 10 years from now?
A: I plan to pursue a fellowship after residency here at UF. I enjoy being at an academic center with the number of diverse clinical and educational opportunities. I can see myself continuing to practice in this setting. I also have a passion for bridging the gap with members from underrepresented communities, especially in medicine, so I plan to continue to work on initiatives to help inspire future generations.