Kunle Adelabu
A First-Class graduate in Criminal Justice with concentration in Forensic Science, from Bowie State University, Maryland, United State of America, Ms. Oluwadolapo Olomo, has stated that her academic feat is a first step taken towards her lager aspiration which is to be Criminal Defense Attorney.
The 23 year-old Ikorodu – born Oluwadolapo graduated in December 2024, from Bowie State University, with a 3.9 cumulative GPA, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with concentration in Forensic Science.
Following her graduation, the young forensic specialist was celebrated by residents of Ikorodu, when his father, Mr Omogoriola Olomo, broke the news of her daughter’s success story on the social media.
The newly graduated forensic expert spoke with THE IMPACT online, sharing her background in Nigeria, sojourn abroad.
Her Background:
My name is Oluwadolapo Olomo. I am 23 years old and a recent graduate of Bowie State University, the first HBCU in the State of Maryland. Like everyone, I have my own coming-of-age story. Mine doesn’t neatly fit into the categories of good or bad—it’s a mix of both, shaped by the highs and lows of life.
I was born on July 6, 2001, at 4:45 a.m. in Royan Medical Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos. Until the age of seven, I lived with my grandfather, Kester Oluwole Olomo. I credit my deep love for academics to him. He never scolded me when I fell short in my grades or didn’t perform as well as I’d hoped.
Instead, he taught me that failure does not define intelligence; it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and do better. He instilled in me the belief that it’s not how many times you fall, but the strength to rise that defines success. His words continue to resonate with me even today.
When my grandfather passed away in 2008, my life changed dramatically. I moved in with my
parents who, although loving, didn’t understand me the way my grandfather had. Building an emotional connection with them was difficult, and I struggled to feel supported in the way a growing child needs.
This period of my life shaped me into who I am today—quiet, introspective, and often reserved. Grief left me feeling isolated and misunderstood, and for a long time, I blamed my grandfather for leaving me too soon. But as I grew older, I came to understand that it wasn’t his fault; it was simply fate.
From ages seven to fifteen, my parents and I coexisted. To them, it seemed we got along, but I had created a version of myself that was easier for them to accept. The deep connection I longed for, I found in my younger brother, Oluwayimika. To this day, and for years to come, he remains my partner in progress and my closest confidant.
Sojourn Abroad & Educational/Professional Pursuit:
At 15, my father, Omogoriola Olomo, decided it was time for our family to migrate to a new country.
My brother and I moved with our mother, Adetutu Olomo, to a place full of opportunities—but also full of challenges. Adapting to a new environment was daunting, but I held on to my grandfather’s lessons about perseverance and steadfastness, even in the face of adversity.
In 2019, I graduated from Laurel High School, and enrolled at Prince George’s Community College to pursue an associate degree in Criminal Justice. I always aspired to become an attorney—not for the thrill of the courtroom, but because of the limitless potential to make a meaningful impact in
people’s lives. After earning my associate degree, I transferred to Bowie State University to complete my bachelor’s. Initially, I chose a concentration in Social Justice but later pivoted to Forensic Science. This field allowed me to bridge the legal and investigative aspects of crime while offering a welcome escape from the heavy writing demands of my major.
To further build my skills, I pursued certifications in forensic fields such as bloodstain analysis, fingerprint analysis, forensic entomology, and handwriting analysis. At the same time, my passion for research and policy led me to intern at the Maryland General Assembly, where I served as a research intern and contract staff for Delegate Debra Davis, Esq. Working in her office was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. She generously shared her wisdom and provided opportunities for growth, including working with Attorney Olinda Moyd on legal reform initiatives in Africa.
After my time with Delegate Davis, I interned with the Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF) through the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). At CSGF, I conducted research on factors contributing to criminality among youths aged 8 to 15. This role not only deepened my research skills, but also introduced me to invaluable mentorship, particularly from Edwine Michel, my supervisor.
Graduation & Larger Aspiration:
At Bowie State, I was blessed with incredible opportunities and mentors. I served as a Teaching Assistant to Dr. Tyrone Powers and Professor Parker-Blyther, for two consecutive semesters. Both of them poured their knowledge and guidance into me, helping me grow academically and professionally. Through their support, I connected with Dr. Charles Adams, who encouraged my leadership development and ultimately paved the way for me to become the Fall 2024 President of the Bowie State chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE).
On December 19, 2024, I graduated from Bowie State University with a 3.9 cumulative GPA, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Science. While this achievement is significant, it’s just one step toward my larger aspirations. I remain steadfast in my goal to become a Criminal Defense Attorney, not just to serve my local community, but also to impact the place that raised me. With faith and determination, I am confident that I will continue to create a legacy of service and justice.
