Oluwaseyi Oluwatola

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leadership is service, therefore understand the frailty of men and give an allowance for the humanity of men. Also, in leading, understand that wisdom overflows, let it cascade. Learn from the peaks above and nourish the valleys below.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

As a PhD Candidate, I consider my most significant career achievement to be the opportunity to mentor students. Helping them gain admission to their desired programs in the United States has been incredibly rewarding and stands out as a highlight of my journey so far.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

I would love to contribute to reducing the incidence and eventually eradicate cancer. I will need to address obstacles associated with getting a full-time research position, such as systematic racism and gender bypass, funding hurdles, and networking challenges.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

The privilege to be conducting research in a renowned and prestigious cancer institute like Moffitt cancer center. I have been fortunate to intern at Mayo Clinic, and I have the experience of setting up a new laboratory. Another opportunity I’d like is an internship in a biotech or biopharma.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS has opened my eyes to opportunities I otherwise thought were not available to me, including networking and learning via the various online sessions offered. Furthermore, the community encourages diversity, which is a plus.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Consistency

How do you define it?

I define consistency as the practice of constantly “showing up” regardless. It builds strength of character.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

This word has helped me thrive even during the worst of times. Consistency has inspired me to pursue opportunities in my field, set my mind on what I want, and not to settle for less. There is power in consistency.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS provides a community that empowers, and advances research done by women in STEM. This community will help strengthen my voice in science and pave the way for opportunities available in my field. I am grateful to be a member of this reputable association and intend to make the best use of this opportunity. Being a member will help me make valuable connections.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I am listening to “Bible from beginning to end” on Spotify, and reading Me and My Big Mouth by Joyce Meyers.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

If you fail to plan, then you have planned to fail.

Oluwaseyi Oluwatola is a 5th year PhD candidate in Biomedical Science (Molecular Medicine concentration) at the University of South Florida and H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center. Her research in cancer immunology focuses on targeting immunosuppressive components of the tumor microenvironment, including regulatory T cells and acidity, to enhance the antitumor immune response. She works with several cancer models including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), melanoma, and bladder cancer. In her spare time, she loves reading, meditating and spending time with friends and family.