A native of Nigeria, Tomisin Olubakinde is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics with majors in operations management and business analytics.
Olubakinde was nominated for this series by Assistant Director of Lerner Career Services Minda Watson, who said, “I would like to nominate (Tomisin) who is an unbelievably exemplary individual and is an exceptional representative of what Lerner strives for our students to be. It has been my privilege and honor to work with and learn from her.”
In this profile, Olubakinde shared her favorite UD memories, how she has changed during her time at UD and her plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Olubakinde: The most significant change I’ve experienced since my first semester at UD is personal and emotional growth. When I arrived on campus, I was stepping into a completely new environment away from home, away from my parents, and far from everything that was familiar. That transition pushed me out of my comfort zone in ways I wasn’t prepared for. Over time, I’ve grown more independent, more confident, and more secure in who I am.
College became more than just academics for me – it became a space for self-discovery. I’ve learned to embrace discomfort, challenge my assumptions, and become more intentional about how I live. I’ve grown to understand my purpose, not just what I want to do, but why I want to do it. I’ve also learned that life won’t always go according to plan, and I don’t need to control every outcome. The best I can do is leave it to God, show up, be present, and be thankful for the journey, no matter what it looks like.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Olubakinde: One of my biggest challenges was learning to ask for help and advocate for myself. I grew up as a quiet student who listened more than they spoke. That habit followed me into college, and at first, it made me hesitant to speak up in class or ask questions, even when I was struggling. I assumed that staying silent was safer. Eventually, I realized that staying quiet wasn’t helping me grow. So, I began pushing myself to raise my hand, go to office hours, send emails, and have difficult conversations. I had to learn that it’s okay to need support and that vulnerability isn’t weakness. Over time, I built the courage to ask for what I needed whether it was clarity in a lecture or help navigating a life decision. And what surprised me most is how many people were willing to help when I simply reached out.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Olubakinde: One of my most memorable UD experiences was taking a theatre class in my freshman year, taught by Kathleen Pirkl Tague. I had added the class last minute to fulfill a breadth requirement and didn’t fully know what I was getting into. I remember walking in late on the first day and being handed a script for a passionate monologue. Without much warning, I was expected to perform, and I was terrified. That class pushed me so far out of my comfort zone, but it ended up becoming one of the most rewarding experiences of my college journey. I developed public speaking skills, embraced creativity, and learned how to connect with others on an emotional level. It wasn’t just a class, it was a turning point that helped me find my voice and build confidence in ways that shaped the rest of my college experience.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Olubakinde: Yes, several individuals within the Lerner community had a profound impact on my journey at UD. The Career Services team was incredible – special shoutout to Minda Watson, who is truly an amazing supervisor and person. I’m constantly in awe of her kindness, leadership, and the way she supports not just me, but so many students here at Lerner. I’m also deeply thankful for the rest of the dedicated staff at Lerner Hall 103. In addition, I’m incredibly grateful for the student staff members and my supervisor, Kendall Rousseau, whom I worked with during my time in Residence Life and Housing. Their mentorship, encouragement, and support made a lasting impression on me and played a significant role in shaping my leadership experience on campus. Among the faculty, Professor Edward Hartono stands out. I took both MISY 160 and MISY 225 with him and his patient, approachable teaching style made learning complex and unfamiliar software feel manageable. I always felt safe asking questions in his class, no matter how basic they seemed. He created a learning environment where I could grow without fear of judgment. Professor Roger Geertz Gonzalez also made a lasting impact during my MISY 261 course. I remember struggling to complete an in-class assignment because I was still getting used to typing and working digitally. When I explained my situation, he responded with such understanding and generosity, extending the submission deadline without hesitation. That small but meaningful gesture reminded me how much professors care about their students beyond just the grades. Professor Leting Zhang was another incredibly supportive and kind professor who brought warmth and encouragement into every interaction. And I will always appreciate professor Caroline Swift, whose thoughtful advice, encouragement, and willingness to share her own academic journey helped me see new possibilities for my future. Finally, my academic advisors played a critical role in shaping my academic path. They helped me discover new programs and opportunities, guided me through important decisions, and opened doors I didn’t even know existed. Each of these individuals helped me grow in confidence, clarity, and capability and I’ll carry their impact with me long after graduation.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Olubakinde: Being a Lifelong Lerner means committing to personal growth beyond the classroom. It means staying curious, embracing change, and being open to learning even when it’s uncomfortable or unfamiliar. To me, it’s about carrying the values of adaptability, resilience, and intellectual curiosity wherever life takes you. As a Lifelong Lerner, I’m not just leaving UD with a degree, I’m leaving with a mindset that challenges me to keep growing, evolving, and contributing meaningfully in whatever space I find myself.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Olubakinde: My biggest piece of advice is: don’t rush through college and live it fully. Each year, from freshman to senior, comes with its own unique lessons, challenges, and opportunities for growth. Don’t get so focused on the finish line that you miss out on the in-between moments that truly shape you. Take the time to discover what you enjoy, explore new interests, and even learn what doesn’t resonate with you. It’s all part of the journey. Be intentional about building genuine relationships with classmates, professors, and staff. Get involved in activities and communities that matter to you. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to fail, ask for help, or change direction. College isn’t just about earning a degree, it’s about becoming the person you’re meant to be. Trust the process. Be present, be kind, stay curious, and take care of yourself along the way. And if things don’t go as planned, that’s okay. You can always start again. Growth takes time, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Olubakinde: After graduation, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. beginning with my master’s degree in the financial services analytics program here at Lerner. This next chapter represents the continuation of my academic journey, and I’m excited to further develop the analytical, leadership, and research skills that will allow me to make meaningful contributions.