Hi, my name is Oluwatolani, and I am a Public Health student at UC San Diego. I am passionate about community health, supporting others, and creating positive change through service and outreach. Outside of academics, I enjoy dancing, exploring new places, spending time with friends, and finding opportunities to learn and grow. I’m excited to connect with new people, share experiences, and continue building meaningful relationships.

Hometown

Los Angeles, California

Major(s)

Public Health

Minor(s)

Dance

Clubs, organizations & involvement

* UC San Diego College Corps * UC San Diego Gavin Alumni Scholarship Fund (GASF) * County Childhood Obesity Initiative (COI) Internship * Mama’s Kitchen (Volunteer​/​College Corps Service) * Jewish Family Service (Volunteer Assistant)

Describe your college experience

My transition to college has been a journey of growth, independence, and self-discovery. Moving away from home and adjusting to the demands of university life challenged me to become more responsible, manage my time effectively, and advocate for myself. My experience at UC San Diego has allowed me to grow both academically and personally through my Public Health studies, campus involvement, internships, and community service. I have developed a stronger passion for addressing health disparities and supporting underserved communities while building meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and organizations. Overall, my college experience has helped me become more confident, resilient, and prepared for my future career goals.

Tip for future students

One thing I wish I knew before starting college is that it is okay to take time to adjust and find your own path. College is a period of growth, and it is important to be open to new experiences, build relationships, and take advantage of the resources available on campus. My advice for future students is to advocate for yourself, ask for help when you need it, and prioritize your well-being while balancing academics. The connections and experiences you create outside of the classroom can be just as valuable as what you learn inside of it.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been Introduction to Project Management because it allowed me to develop skills that align with my career goals in public health. I enjoyed learning how to plan, organize, and manage projects while collaborating with others to achieve a shared goal. The class helped me understand the importance of communication, problem-solving, and adapting to challenges, which are skills I hope to apply in future public health roles focused on improving community health outcomes.

Career goals

After college, I hope to pursue a career in public health focused on improving access to resources and addressing health disparities in underserved communities. My goal is to work in roles such as project coordination or health program management where I can combine my passion for community health, leadership, and problem-solving to create meaningful impact. I also plan to continue my education by pursuing a master’s degree in Health Management or Administration to further develop my skills and expand my ability to lead public health initiatives.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night would be doing something fun, social, and creative. I love spending time with friends, trying new restaurants or exploring new places, and making memories through experiences. I also enjoy dancing, so a perfect night could include a dance class, music, or simply having fun with people who bring positive energy. I like ending the day with some self-care, a good show, and time to recharge.

High school or secondary school

Hawthorne High School

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite place on campus is Price Center because, as a foodie, I love that it offers so many different dining options in one place. Whether I am grabbing a quick meal between classes, trying something new, or meeting up with friends, Price Center is a space where I can enjoy good food while connecting with the campus community. I also appreciate that it serves as a central hub where students can gather, relax, and feel a sense of belonging.