Student Spotlight: Olajumoke Olarewaju
Meet Olajumoke Olarewaju
Olajumoke Olarewaju—a student in the Department of Health, Behavior and Society’s PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences program—reflects on building community as an international student, embracing the therapeutic potential of creative expression, and advancing health outcomes for all through collaboration and mutual support.
- Program: PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Entry year: 2022
- Hometown: Nigeria
- Fun fact: “Ever since I can remember, I've been captivated by the thrilling world of WWE, a passion passed down from my parents' love for the sport. Those evenings spent cheering on my favorite superstars have shaped my lifelong devotion to the drama, and excitement, of entertaining wrestling. Whether reliving classic WrestleMania moments or eagerly tuning in to the latest RAW or Smackdown episode, my enthusiasm for WWE runs as deep as a titleholder's victory streak. I'm not just a fan; I'm a walking encyclopedia of wrestling knowledge, always ready to discuss the latest matches and share my favorite memories from the ring. I am looking forward to watching it in person (fingers crossed).”
What sparked your interest in public health?
My interest in public health was sparked by witnessing the impact of donor-funded aid on Nigerian communities. Seeing the positive changes brought about by these interventions made me realize the power of evidence-based strategies in improving health outcomes.
Public health offers me the opportunity to be directly involved in designing these interventions, ensuring they are not only aligned with the priorities of donors, but also resonate with the needs of the community.
What led you to join the Department of Health, Behavior and Society?
My journey to joining the Department of Health, Behavior, and Society was influenced by my work experience, which centered around generating evidence to develop health communication and social and behavioral change strategies. Through this experience, I gained a deep understanding of the power of communication in shaping the choices people make regarding their health.
I was curious to delve deeper into this field and explore how communication strategies could be further refined to effectively promote positive health behaviors. Having been involved with the work of the Center for Communication Programs, the Department of Health, Behavior, and Society felt like a natural fit for me. It offered an ideal environment to continue my exploration, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and contribute to innovative approaches in public health communication and behavior change.
In essence, my desire to expand my knowledge and expertise in leveraging communication for health promotion led me to join the Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, where I could continue to make a meaningful impact in improving public health outcomes.
How have you built your sense of community during your time as an HBS student?
Being an international student, the transition to a new country was daunting, and I struggled to find my footing initially. However, my cohort has been my pillar of support throughout this journey. They celebrate my successes, comfort me during tough times, share laughs, and even help me find food options that suit my picky eating habits.
The support extends beyond my cohort, as certain faculty members provide invaluable guidance and encouragement, which is instrumental in helping me navigate the difficulties of the program, especially during the challenging first year. While I prefer not to mention names, their support was crucial to my perseverance.
Moreover, I found a sense of belonging in the broader community of Baltimore. I met wonderful people from other cohorts, Departments, and outside the School who went out of their way to help me settle in and feel at home. Additionally, I found solace and support in an amazing church community, which further enriched my sense of belonging.
Thanks to the incredible people I've met and the unwavering support I receive from them daily, I can unequivocally call Baltimore home. It's the sense of camaraderie and belonging that I've found within this community that has made my journey as an HBS student not only bearable but also immensely fulfilling.
Outside of public health, what are some of your hobbies, interests, and personal passions?
Outside of my studies in public health, I find solace and joy in various hobbies and personal passions. One of my creative outlets is writing scripts and screenplays, allowing me to weave intricate stories and explore diverse narratives. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for photography, especially capturing the beauty of nature through my lens.
In moments of grief and hardship during my first year, I discovered the therapeutic power of both photography and writing. These outlets provided me with a much-needed emotional release and served as a form of self-expression. It was through this journey of exploration that I found solace and healing, eventually giving birth to an account I created on Instagram: @eternalgratitudejourney.
Beyond creative pursuits, I indulge in watching movies and stage plays, immersing myself in captivating storytelling and performances. As a proud plant mom, I find comfort and joy in nurturing my four plants, fostering a sense of connection with nature.
I'm always open to cultivating new hobbies and experiences that enrich my life. Walking, in particular, has become a newfound favorite activity, allowing me to explore my surroundings while staying active and healthy.
Moreover, I have a passion for cooking, especially preparing delicious Nigerian cuisine. There's something deeply satisfying about experimenting with flavors and creating meals that bring joy to others. Cooking not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, making it a cherished hobby of mine.
What are some of your favorite places in Baltimore?
Some of my favorite spots in Baltimore hold a special place in my heart, each offering its own unique charm and delights. At the top of my list is the Inner Harbor, where I'm always captivated by the breathtaking views and the soothing presence of the water bodies. Surprisingly, I've grown to love riding the water taxi, despite once harboring a phobia of large bodies of water—talk about overcoming fears!
When it comes to dining out, breakfast joints like Charmed and Easy Like Sunday never fail to put a smile on my face. There's something comforting about starting the day with a delicious meal and good company. And for a taste of home, Namaste Baltimore is my go-to spot for mouthwatering chicken tikka masala.
Exploring Baltimore's diverse culinary scene, the restaurants in Little Italy always offer a delightful experience. Mera holds a special place in my heart, not only for its delectable dishes but also for serving my favorite drink, bissap, which brings back fond memories of the refreshing "zobo" drink from home.
And let's not forget about indulging my sweet tooth! BMore Licks, my absolute favorite ice cream place, is a must-visit whenever I'm craving a delicious frozen treat. Their inventive flavors and creamy textures never disappoint, making it a beloved spot for satisfying my ice cream cravings.
Despite having found some favorite haunts, I'm always eager to explore more of Baltimore's hidden gems. Whether it's stumbling upon charming cafes, vibrant neighborhoods, or scenic parks, there's always something new and exciting to discover in this dynamic city.
What advice do you have for prospective students interested in joining the HBS community?
For prospective students interested in joining the vibrant HBS community, it's essential to recognize the sense of camaraderie and support that exists within the Department. While the journey may be tough, nothing worth achieving comes easily. It's important to recognize that we're not here to compete but rather to complement and support each other on our journeys. We're building a community of public health individuals who are united in working towards one big goal: improving health outcomes for all.
Embrace collaboration and mutual support, understanding that together, we can achieve far more than we could alone. By fostering a culture of teamwork and inclusivity, we strengthen our collective impact and advance the field of public health for the betterment of society.
Understand that challenges are inevitable, but with determination and resilience, there is nothing you cannot overcome. Embrace the sense of community within HBS, surrounding yourself with positive energy and like-minded individuals who are invested in your success. Remember to reach out for help when needed, as people within the community are willing to support you. By fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual assistance, together, we can navigate the challenges and achieve our goals in the field of public health.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Views expressed are the subject's own.