How a First-Generation Student’s Public Health Journey Led Her to a Crown
Miss Newark USA 2024 Osasenaga Iyamu has challenged societal expectations and carved a path that intertwines public health, pageantry and mentorship
March 17, 2025
Osasenaga Iyamu’s story is one of resilience, courage and purpose.
As a student at the Rutgers School of Public Health, Iyamu is earning her Master of Public Health degree in Environmental Health Sciences in May 2025.
Iyamu’s journey to public health was shaped by a series of academic and professional experiences. She began her undergraduate studies in 2016 at the University of Hartford in a seven-year chemistry/pre-pharmacy program but soon realized her path was shifting.
“Preventative measures are not heavily discussed or sought after in the healthcare field,” Iyamu said. “Furthermore, when a new cure or treatment to an illness is discovered, it is not as easily accessible to those in dire need of it. These companies mostly hide it from the public, which does not align with my values and morals. I couldn’t be at peace with myself if I pursued such a path.”
In 2018, Iyamu faced a setback in her academic journey when she could not continue her undergraduate program due to losing passion for her original career path and the pressures of being a first-generation student.