The Road Less Traveled Inspires This Agnes Scott Post-Bacc Student

Adeshewa Olaiya is a post-baccalaureate student at Agnes Scott College. While studying osteopathy and holistic medicine, she nurtures her entrepreneurial spirit through her beauty enterprise.

Adeshewa’s journey is a rich tapestry woven with experiences that have shaped her into the innovative woman she is today. Her undergraduate degree laid the foundation for her academic pursuits, but her unwavering determination and strong work ethic, instilled in her from a young age, truly set her apart.

She embodies a spirit of independence and determination, attributes of a Scottie claiming their place. She embraces her new life while honoring her heritage, blending the values of her Nigerian upbringing with the opportunities that come with studying at Agnes Scott. Adeshewa has found more than just a school; she has discovered a community.

We recently chatted at McCain Library, and I quickly realized how much I had learned about myself from her journey.

There were a lot of post-baccalaureate programs to choose from. Why Agnes Scott?

I did a lot of research to find my perfect school. Every search directed me to the same college. Sight unseen and without even visiting, I knew Agnes Scott College was the place for me. I didn’t apply anywhere else.

Are you happy with your choice now that you are here and fully immersed in your program?

I am beyond happy! In my research, I saw Agnes Scott’s commitment to developing tomorrow’s leaders and its dedication to a culture of belonging and academic excellence. This is precisely what I’ve experienced here. My classmates, from diverse backgrounds, form a tight-knit community. What inspires me is that we’re all united by a common goal: to become first-class healthcare providers who practice with compassion and consideration for our patients’ life journeys.

You’re a busy pre-med student with your own beauty company and brand. How do you balance this while maintaining a rigorous academic schedule?

It’s not always easy to balance my academic commitments with running a business, but my work ethic and passion for what I do keep me focused and energized. I’ve seen my mom and sisters work hard in their fields, and their dedication inspires me to stay on course. There are days when I feel overwhelmed, but I’ve learned to prioritize and manage my time effectively. It’s a constant juggle, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Tell me about the products and services your company offers.

I own a beauty aesthetics business offering services like Botox, skincare regimens, and other body enhancements. I also have a training institute offering certifications in this industry. Additionally, I create customized lab goggles, lab coats, and scrubs to make STEM students and medical professionals feel confident and stylish. Each piece is tailored with unique text or logo options, allowing them to stand out while maintaining functionality. Even the lab goggles—typically a mundane necessity—are transformed into fashionable, functional accessories that reflect the wearer’s identity and ambition.

What advice would you give an aspiring female student interested in the medical field?

My motto is to keep discipline over motivation. In this field, you have to know and always remember your why. You will have your ups and downs — in life in general — so your motivation to do certain things can change, but if you are disciplined, you can go the distance no matter what. This is the advice I would give to any aspiring student in the medical field.

Adeshewa’s story is inspiring. In a world that often emphasizes the need to choose between passion and profession, she shows us that it’s possible to harmonize both, proving that the future of medicine—and beauty—can be as multifaceted as the individuals who dare to shape it.