Sediqua Bufford

Why FSU?

I am a Florida native who joined the military after college and traveled. I always wanted to return to live in Florida. I chose FSU because the Department of Biomedical Sciences in the College of Medicine is highly respected. The faculty is world-renowned, offering different disciplines that all focus on advancing medical science.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I originally began my graduate career by preparing to go to medical school to be a provider; as I completed shadowing hours at the Medical College of Georgia, I learned about different applications and experimentations that the military was doing with biomedical science. I learned that, fundamentally, biomedical science is responsible for the continued advancement of medicine; it was this realization that led to my decision to pursue the science that creates medicine.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

The advancement of medical practice relies on the research and discoveries of biomedical science. Biomedical Science as a discipline creates the opportunities providers use across all specialties to practice medicine and serve humankind. My research will contribute to the field of biomedical science (genomics and molecular biology), effectively contributing to precision medicine and the advancement of medical science, aiming to contribute to more standard, efficient, and affordable healthcare for all (which includes access to care).

Describe an aspect of your military service that is especially memorable or exceptional

I am an Enduring Freedom Veteran & Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, a wife of an Enduring Freedom/Iraq Campaign Veteran (Army), and a mother of two. I have gained a strong appreciation for the freedoms we experience in America and an understanding of the phrase "Freedom isn't Free."

Career aspirations

My ambitions are to discover biomarkers that can be used in translational research to provide clinical and non-clinical interventions that address disproportional mortality rates among people of African ancestry. After graduation, I intend to work in molecular epidemiology and continue focusing on solutions to race-based disparities in health and access to health care.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Have a firm understanding of your goals and your self-worth. Work hard, have a schedule but make time for self-care, and have a support group.