May 15, 2024 — Faith Olagoke, a senior at Independence High School, has excelled academically at both Independence and Fort Hayes Career Center, where she is beginning her pursuit of a career in medicine. 

“She goes out of her way to help in any capacity,” said Cassie Harper, guidance counselor at Independence. “She's heavily involved in the school community, both at Independence but also at Fort Hayes Career Center.”

Olagoke is enrolled in the Fort Hayes Career Center Medical Assisting program. She has gained industry-specific knowledge and specialized training in patient care management, clinical work, and administrative duties through the program. 

Olagoke’s success has been aided by several key adults in her educational career. Harper has worked closely with Olagoke to show her the possibilities of Fort Hayes, College Credit Plus, and National Honor Society, where she is currently Vice President of her chapter.  

Additionally, Harper and Olagoke worked with I Know I Can (IKIC), a Columbus-based college access program, to keep Olagoke on the path to college. Harper said Olagoke is the model of what it means to be an Independence Sixer. 

“[Olagoke] is not only exceptionally bright, but she also has fantastic character,” said Harper. “She is kind, mature, [and] responsible. She has been an exemplary example throughout her four years [at Independence]. She's fantastic.”

Thanks to Harper and IKIC, Olagoke has been linked to valuable financial resources. She has been awarded the Governor’s Merit Scholarship, a renewable scholarship that provides up to $5,000 per year, and a $2,500 scholarship from the Columbus Rotary for outstanding service to her community. Olagoke is eagerly awaiting a response from the Founder’s Scholarship, which would allow for up to $10,000 per year. 

The information and support provided by I Know I Can, the staff at Independence, and the valuable real-world experience gained at Fort Hayes have allowed Olagoke to navigate the college application process and confidently pursue her dreams. 

“I've loved my high school experience, it's bittersweet that it's ending,” said Olagoke. “If I had not spoken to Ms. Harper, I would not know about Fort Hayes, and I don't know where I would be right now. I'd probably just be at school, not knowing that I had potential and that there are opportunities like that out for me.”

Olagoke’s path to the medical field will continue at The Ohio State University, where she plans to major in Biology with a Pre-Medicine concentration. Afterward, she plans to attend medical school and become an internal medicine doctor, completing a journey that began at CCS. She is excited to begin a career that reflects her passion for helping others and making a difference in the world.

Columbus City Schools congratulates Olagoke on her achievements thus far and wishes her the best of luck in her future endeavors. The District is proud to have students like Olagoke who are dedicated to their education and working towards making a positive impact in the world.