Author: Adiki Puplampu
Date: 07 December 2024
For a long time, Onami Ademola thought she wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a doctor. Discovering computing in high school shifted her interests and led her to take courses in everything from web design and UX/UI to app design and coding. Onami, now in her third year of computer engineering at the University of Alberta, enjoys learning about all aspects of computing from coding on the software side to robotics on the hardware side.
This summer, Onami had the opportunity to apply her passion for computer science in the Neuromuscular Control and Biomechanics Lab (NCBL). Her internship focused on research and development of brain-computer interface (BCI) based games for children with disabilities. During her internship, Onami developed games to help researchers better understand how children with disabilities interact with these games.
“I have had to learn a lot of things on the fly, which has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. I’m gaining practical experience, and it has been a great opportunity to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting.”
The project Onami supported contributes to work around improving rehabilitative and assistive technologies for children with disabilities. Her work feeds into the research ecosystem in this area and will be used to provide more effective and engaging rehabilitation technologies that can improve the quality of life and environmental interactions children with disabilities have.
Onami’s dream is to build a career that combines her interests in computer software and hardware. Right now she imagines working on cutting-edge robotics or AI in a role that allows her to think creatively.
“I want to be in a position where I can engage with advanced technology and contribute to groundbreaking projects, all while enjoying the work I do and expressing my creativity.”
From coming across the ELITE Program on LinkedIn to finishing a summer as an intern, Onami has come a long way. Over the course of her internship, Onami has noticed herself growing in career confidence. Working in the lab made concrete for her the importance of seeking help when facing challenges and ultimately she learned that almost any obstacle can be overcome with time, dedication, commitment, and passion.
“The saying "You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take" has never felt truer. Much of what I’ve worked on during this internship was new to me, but I’ve embraced the learning process and I’m now better because of it.”
Onami particularly enjoyed her experience in the ELITE Program Entrepreneurship Design Series this summer.
“My favorite experience from my ELITE Program internship so far has been the Entrepreneurship Design Series. It has been incredibly eye-opening, especially because I’ve had the opportunity to contribute and pitch ideas on the spot that I didn’t know I was capable of.”
When she’s not learning about or working on computers, Onami can be found listening to or making music, reading, or writing creatively for her blog. She recently began exploring music theory and as with all her passions she’s immersed herself in this new learning and is enjoying every second of it.