Chidinma Ezugwu

Mathematics, '19

Vermont’s lush greenery and towering mountains are what initially drew Mathematics major Chidinma Ezugwu to Castleton. Originally from Nigeria, Ezugwu found a welcoming home that values international students and the ways they enrich the campus.

“The university always goes above and beyond to ensure that every international student is well cared for and feels at home,” she said. “Since day one, I have felt at home at the small university with a big heart.”

The senior has always had a passion for mathematics and solving complex problems.

“Apart from God and family, mathematics is the next thing I love the most,” she said. “I also have a dream to change the world. I plan on combining the knowledge I acquire in the fields of mathematics, statistics, and economics, which is my secondary discipline, to solve complex problems of growth and development in poor countries.”

In addition to being a stellar student with lofty life goals, Ezugwu is an active participant in the campus community and is involved in many clubs and organizations, such as being president of Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, a student representative on the President’s Student Advisory Board, and Vice President of the Badminton Club, just to name a few.

She also works in the university’s Advancement Office as a university relations assistant, as an intern in the Career Services Office, and as a math tutor in the Academic Support Center.

“Castleton has provided me with the tools to grow intellectually. I cannot express how grateful I am for the opportunities that Castleton has provided me. From equipping me with various internships, scholarship, and volunteer opportunities, Castleton has molded me into a strong, resilient, and goal-driven scholar,” she said.

Ezugwu has connected with people on campus through her involvement who have made her experience at Castleton a memorable one, including Director of Career Services Renée Beaupre White.

“She inspires me in all she does. Little things matter to her and she understands individuals on a whole new level. She makes you feel appreciated and is very genuine in her actions. To describe her in one word, I would say that she’s just amazing,” she said.

As she prepares to graduate this semester, Ezugwu remembers not only the people who made her time at Castleton, but also the reasons she came here in the first place.

“After I graduate, I’ll remember most the beautiful fall leaves and the warm feeling you get when you wake up in one of the places that you love the most,” she said.