Help Paul Study Abroad at Oxford University!

Hi, my name is Paul Odu and I am raising funds for a year of study abroad at Oxford University (Corpus Christi). I am the son of immigrants from Nigeria and have lived in Missouri since I was born. Currently, I am a student in the Honors College at the University of Missouri - Columbia, studying Economics (BA) and Constitutional Democracy (BA) with a minor in History.

Since high school, I have worked hard to develop my leadership potential, intellectual curiosity, and devotion to others. As such, Mizzou provided me an opportunity to use these skills to benefit the communities I care about. In college, I have served as a teaching assistant (economics), Vice-President of the Men’s Ultimate Frisbee Team, student ambassador, intern in the U.S. Senate, intern for Kansas City’s mayor, intern for an education non-profit, staff writer for an academic journal, editor of an undergraduate op-ed publication, and founder of an undergraduate debate society.

My passion for knowledge bloomed during my time competing in speech & debate and mock trial at Rockhurst High School in Kansas City. These experiences inspired me to go beyond the surface and delve deeply into the weeds of important political, social, and economic issues. It was in high school where I learned the true value of hard work, relying solely upon scholarships and work-study to pay my tuition. Luckily, my devotion to these extracurricular activities helped alleviate the costs associated with my undergraduate education. I have paid for my college education through scholarships, part-time jobs, and internships.

Earlier this year, I was awarded an Oxford Fellowship by the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy (“KICD”) at Mizzou. This fellowship involves a full year of study at Corpus Christi College, providing access to the full range of Oxford’s History curriculum and full immersion in the culture and traditions of the College. The opportunity to study abroad is one I never thought I would have in undergrad, especially given the turmoil caused by the global pandemic. Oxford will expand my cultural awareness, cultivate my scholarly interests, and meet students from across the globe.

After my year away at Oxford, I plan to finish my degrees at Mizzou and seek further opportunities to study abroad through international fellowships and post-graduate studies. Ultimately, I want to attend law school and eventually teach law after working in the private/public sectors. The self-directed, rigorous, and autonomous style of education at Oxford will serve me well in these future endeavors.

In spite of the KICD’s generosity, I will need to rely on external financial support for the bulk of my expenses while overseas. The cost of studying abroad is steep and my offer from Oxford stipulates that I cannot work while studying abroad. The funds I receive will be dedicated towards school supplies, books, food, recreation, flights/travel, and other living expenses. I am seeking to raise $15,000 by September 30th to help me cover these costs.

Traveling abroad to study has been a dream of mine for years. Having this chance to fulfill it means the world to me. I humbly ask that you consider donating to my campaign. Any amount helps, no matter how small. If you are unable to help at the moment, please share this campaign with others who may be able to assist. Thank you so much!