NYU Stern MBA Candidate | Pharmacist | Navy Veteran
This is the story of Dr. Chetanna Okwaraji, a woman whose journey is a remarkable blend of resilience, ambition, and a deep desire to revolutionize healthcare. From serving as a Naval officer to pursuing an MBA at NYU Stern, she stands as an inspiration for young people seeking to forge their own paths in life. Dr. Okwaraji’s story begins with her four years of service in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii. During her time in the Navy, she developed a profound sense of discipline, leadership, and a passion for service. These qualities would form the bedrock of her future career in healthcare. Transitioning from the Navy to pharmacy school was a challenge, but one she embraced with determination. She received her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from St. John’s University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, where her passion for clinical healthcare and management blossomed. Her areas of interest—emergency medicine, oncology, health care management, and leadership—reflect her deep commitment to improving patient outcomes and healthcare systems. Dr. Okwaraji interned at The Mount Sinai Hospital for nearly three years, gaining hands-on experience in clinical and hospital pharmacy. Her passion for leadership led her to serve as Vice President of the Student Veterans Association at St. John’s University, helping veterans navigate their transitions to civilian careers, just as she had done.
In 2023, she began her pharmacy residency at Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City, further honing her skills in emergency medicine and oncology. Her next goals are clear: become BCPS-certified (Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist), pursue her MBA, and take on a leadership role in healthcare administration.
But Dr. Okwaraji’s ambitions don’t stop at the clinical level. Accepted into NYU Stern’s MBA program, she is now merging her clinical expertise with business acumen, focusing on healthcare investment banking. Her goal is to leverage strategic capital deployment to drive innovation in the pharmaceutical industry, advancing healthcare systems at a larger scale.
Her service extends beyond her professional life. Dr. Okwaraji volunteers regularly, spending time with senior citizens in nursing homes, teaching them computer skills, and serving meals to the homeless at soup kitchens. Her commitment to community, both in her professional and personal life, is a testament to her character.
Dr. Chetanna Okwaraji’s story is one of resilience, passion, and service. From the Navy to pharmacy to pursuing an MBA, she continually breaks barriers and inspires young people to dream big. Her ultimate mission is clear: to pioneer change in healthcare, improving systems and outcomes while empowering the next generation to take the lead.
