MT Scholar Simisola Oloye Wins $3,000 as 3MT Runner-Up at Purdue University

What does it cost to try, even when you’re not sure of the outcome?

For Simisola Arinze (Née Oloye), it meant showing up, doing the work, and trusting the process, even without guarantees. 

That decision has led to a remarkable milestone. 

Simisola emerged as Runner-Up at the prestigious Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition at Purdue University, earning a $3,000 prize for her outstanding performance.

Just weeks earlier, she was named among the Top 10 finalists, an early indication of her academic depth and exceptional communication skills.

The 3MT competition challenges doctoral researchers to do something incredibly difficult: explain complex research in just three minutes, without slides, charts, or technical jargon. 

Simisola rose to this challenge with a compelling presentation titled “Less Is More: Even With Pills.” In just those few minutes, she translated her years of rigorous scientific work into a clear, engaging, and impactful message, securing second place among a field of outstanding researchers.

Behind this achievement is a story of consistency, excellence, and quiet determination.

Simisola is a 4th-year PhD candidate in Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics at Purdue University’s College of Pharmacy. She advanced to candidacy after completing her coursework with an exceptional 4.0 GPA, reflecting her commitment to academic excellence.

Her research focuses on improving drug development processes, with the broader goal of making medicines safer and more effective for global use.

Her journey began at the  University of Ibadan, where she graduated with First-Class Honors in Pharmacy.

As a 2020 MT Scholar, Simisola’s path has also been shaped by access to mentorship, guidance, and a community that supports students in translating potential into global opportunities.

Her success at the 3MT competition is not just about a title.

It is about choosing to show up and communicate your work, even when the stage feels intimidating. 

Because sometimes, the courage to try is what creates the moment worth celebrating.

Simisola’s journey is a reminder that excellence is not accidental. It is built through consistency, resilience, and a willingness to step forward, even without certainty.

Watch Simisola’s interview here.