Fodun Ologunde

From summa cum laude to Apple Inc. software engineer.

Though her journey began in Nigeria, it has taken her across the United States and eventually landed her at the University’s Pittsburgh campus to study computer engineering in the Swanson School of Engineering. While here, she discovered her purpose, followed her passion and cemented her place as a scholar and leader.

Ologunde’s next stop is Austin, Texas, where she’s begun work as a software engineer for Apple Inc. “ I’m incredibly excited to embark on this journey and can’t wait to explore more of my strengths in this new role,” she said.

Ologunde was involved in several software development projects during her time at the Swanson School and had a few work experiences that augmented what she was studying in the classroom.

However, she learned early on that she would also need to find a supportive network to guide her and to lean upon as she powered through the rigorous courses of the engineering program. She found that support system in the Pitt EXCEL Program, an undergraduate program dedicated to the advancement and retention of underrepresented students in engineering.

“Ms. Yvette Moore, the director of Pitt EXCEL, was a constant source of support and guidance,” Ologunde said. “Dr. Dickerson, the director of the computer engineering undergraduate program, was another incredible asset. He provided the guidance I needed to navigate the computer engineering space and define my academic and professional goals. They are both highly valuable to the engineering school, and I can’t thank them enough for their support.”

Ologunde recommends that incoming engineering students find ways to connect with others throughout the Pitt community, just like she did. “The professors, advisors, alumni and peers you meet will be great assets throughout your journey if you invest time in cultivating those relationships.”