Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi, I’m Ayoola. I just completed my master’s in Data Science, with a solid foundation in BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences, both earned from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen. I loved every second of my master’s, and in the process became deeply passionate about the health sector.
I come from a big family with five siblings, whom I currently live with in Glasgow. My older sister has always been a real inspiration to me – she qualified as a lab scientist and is now a project manager in the same sector. She works hard, loves what she does, and I can see there are so many options – which is one of the things that drew me to the health sector.
What made you apply for the Black Internship Programme?
I was referred via the 10,000 Black Interns Programme and following the application process, I could absolutely see that this was the right fit for me. I was then offered the chance to interview for an internship within HDR UK’s Technology Team (an interview which was surprisingly, a genuinely enjoyable experience!). And the rest – as they say – is history.
Being in education is just so different to how things operate in ‘real life’. I wanted the chance to try and bridge the gap between the two. Now, with such a supportive team, I can see myself having the confidence to try things I haven’t tried before. I can imagine myself working in this sector for real.
For recent graduates I think it has a lot to do with confidence – especially for black individuals such as myself, who are a minority in the process of being hired. This programme allows us to showcase our skills as individuals, and just have a go.
What are you enjoying so far about being part of the Technology Team at Health Data Research UK?
I love a technical challenge! So, supporting the Tech Team is daunting, but exciting too. I’m a few weeks into my internship now, and what I’m relishing so far is the support from the team. I can really feel that they want me to grow and improve, and that is such a great feeling. If there’s something I don’t feel comfortable with, I know I can go to them with questions. Being told things like ‘don’t overthink it, just have a go’ and ‘just ask anything’ is so encouraging. I already know that leaving at the end of the summer will be a bittersweet experience for me.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’m a musical person, and I love to be outside. I started singing with my church – mostly gospel stuff – when I was a child, and now I offer tutoring. I love travelling with friends, and come from a big and busy family. I hope one day, I can inspire my younger siblings to follow in my footsteps, and say yes to an opportunity like this.
Find out more about the Black Internship Programme
Meet the class of 2024
