Obianuju Madu

What is your favorite campus tradition?

The dorm masses on Sunday in McGlinn Hall. It is the perfect way to start my week

What is your favorite spot on campus?

The ping-pong table at the South Quad Tent. Although there are pingpong tables around campus, there was just something about that particular table. I’m guessing it’s the many people I had the opportunity to meet and play with. Now that the tent is not mounted anymore, I guess I would have to find a replacement.  

What is your best Notre Dame memory?

Spending time with friends at the outdoor tables at Pizza Pi during the weekends. At a time when COVID made distance all that I knew, having those moments with them was blissful.        

What is your favorite Dining Hall Meal?

Indian food at South Dining Hall 

What is your favorite thing about dorm life?

I love the support everyone in the dorms is always willing to offer. Whether it be encouraging messages on group chats or section meetings, there is always someone in the dorm who wants to be there for you or make you smile.

What clubs/activities are you involved in?

Served as the Diversity Council Rep of the African Students’ Association, Hall Council, Class Council. I also worked briefly with Office of Information Technologies 

What made you choose Notre Dame?

Since the first day I stepped on campus during the Reilly Program, I have always felt safe and comfortable. The warmth of the community ND fosters is really second to none. My current roommate also made the decision easy for me. 

What is your favorite part about being an international student at Notre Dame?

Contributing my cultural perspectives, background, and experiences to conversations, while exploring the similarities and differences with others around me is the best part of being an international student. I love having the chance to always speak to people about my country and culture. 

How did you adjust to life on campus?

I did my best to always ask questions and meet new people.  

How do you celebrate your culture/heritage at ND?  

I always try to answer questions about my culture and speak about my culture in some classes or seminars. I also participate in African Students Association events and other cultural club gatherings.

What advice do you have for international students?

Always remember that you are deserving of the space you are in, so do with it, all that you can. Also, always feel free to ask questions.