Adedeji Ademola RN BSN CCRN is the ecstatic recipient of the Estelle Massey Osborne scholarship for 2024. He always knew he wanted to help those who were sick and began his academic journey at the University at Buffalo, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. His passions for helping people eventually led him to nursing. He was able to pursue further education at Stony Brook University School of Nursing, where he graduated Magna Cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. He is currently enrolled in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, furthering his specialization to serve veterans and civilians suffering from PTSD and substance abuse.

Adedeji’s interests in nursing was inspired by his mother, who is also a nurse and nurse midwife. His experiences in various ICU settings across the United States, including Bellevue hospital, Saint Charles Health system, University hospital in Newark, and the Brooklyn Hospital Center, have exposed him to the critical needs of patients in inner-city environments. These experiences, particularly managing the care of critically ill patient’s patients with preventable chronic diseases, reinforced his resolve to specialize in psychiatric nursing.

Choosing the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program was a deliberate decision for Adedeji. During his tenure in the ICU, he frequently encountered patients with PTSD and substance abuse issues, particularly among minorities and veterans. His work has given him a profound understanding of the mental health challenges faced by these individuals and the urgent need for specialized care. Adedeji is committed to using his training to bridge the gap in mental health services for these populations.

In addition to his clinical work, Adedeji has been actively involved in community outreach and professional collaboration. He participated in the Hunter-Cabrini fellowship, an inter-professional collaboration with social workers, and engaged in community outreach through his church in Far Rockaway. These experiences have equipped him with a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of community and inter-professional support in healthcare. Receiving the NEF Estelle Massey Osborne Scholarship is a significant milestone for Adedeji. It alleviates a substantial financial burden, allowing him to focus more on his studies and less on financial constraints. This scholarship also enables him to be more present for his friends and family, balancing his professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.

Adedeji’s future goals include becoming a dedicated provider for minorities, veterans and or civilians suffering from PTSD and substance abuse. He aims to leverage his advanced degree to provide comprehensive mental health care. Advocating for patients who often face stigma and barriers to accessing equality healthcare. The NEF scholarship represents not just financial support but also a recognition of his potential to impact the field of psychiatric nursing significantly, Adedeji Ademola is poised to be a compassionate and skilled mental health practitioner, driven by his experiences and dedication to improving the lives of those in need.