Spotlight on Talent – Olutayo Oluokun

Studied: Access to Health Professions
Progression: Operating Department Practice Degree at Coventry University

As someone who has ‘always loved a challenge’ and who ‘likes to push themselves’, it was natural for Olutayo Oluokin to aim to go to university and train to become an operating department practitioner (ODP).

His goals are being achieved.  He has gained Distinction grades in his Access to Health Professions course at Walsall College and is starting a degree at Coventry University.

“I’m very happy with my Distinction grades,” said Olutayo.  “They prove I am on the right path.

“I had dreamed of becoming a surgeon, but my life went in another direction when I left school.  I’d recently been working as a support worker in a hospital.  This showed me some of the other careers available in the NHS.

“Becoming an operating department practitioner stood out for me.  It’s a role that gives me the opportunity to support pre-surgery patients and work in a laboratory and operating theatre environment.”

On completing his full honours degree, Olutayo hopes to go into teaching; either as an academic lecturer or as a trainer in a healthcare setting.

He credits the college and the supportive atmosphere he enjoyed as the reason for his high aspirations and determination to succeed.

“My Access course and time at college have been a very good experience,” continued Olutayo.  “My lecturers were fully supportive; all passionate about their industry and always approachable.  They gave me the motivation to achieve the best I could.”

Olutayo added: “My advice to others beginning an Access course or getting ready for university would be to go into your studies with a determined heart and mind.  By doing this, you won’t have any regrets about following your dreams.”