As a first-generation Nigerian, I was raised by a hard-working single mother who instilled in me the values of perseverance and the importance of education. My journey into neuropsychology has been profoundly shaped by these experiences, as well as by the cultural nuances I witnessed in our community.
My passion for psychology began in high school during my AP Psychology class, where I was captivated by the complexities of human behavior and the ways in which mental processes shape our lives. I earned my undergraduate degree at the University of North Texas, where I developed a solid foundation in psychology and furthered my passion for understanding the connection between thought, behavior, and emotion, particularly in the context of diverse cultural experiences. My passion for understanding diverse mental health needs led me to pursue my master’s degree at the University of Houston, and ultimately, I completed my PhD at the University of Arizona. During my doctoral training, I was fortunate to be trained at the University of Arizona’s Anxiety Clinic, where I gained valuable experience in treating anxiety disorders.
While pursuing my PhD, I served as the coordinator for African American Student Affairs, where I worked closely with Black students to create culturally relevant events that enhanced their campus experience and fostered a sense of community. This role allowed me to engage with students on a deeper level, addressing their unique challenges and celebrating their achievements.
I also took on the role of Chief of Staff for the Graduate and Professional Student Council, where I led advocacy efforts aimed at improving the academic and social environment for graduate students. This involved collaborating with fellow students to identify key issues and organizing initiatives to address them. A significant aspect of my advocacy work included traveling to Washington, D.C., where I lobbied for the interests and rights of graduate students, ensuring that our voices were heard on important policy matters. These experiences not only deepened my commitment to equity and inclusion in higher education but also equipped me with the skills to champion diverse perspectives within the academic community.
In addition to my academic training, I worked as an ABA therapist for two years and then served as a supervisor for one year. This hands-on experience reinforced my commitment to supporting individuals with ADHD and autism, particularly within minority populations. I also completed my internship through the Louisiana School Psychology Internship Consortium, where I had a rotation between school-based, community, and private mental health settings. This diverse experience allowed me to further hone my skills in providing culturally sensitive care across various placements.