Week 3: Aderonke Daramola, RN

 

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

 

I completed my first undergraduate degree in Exercise & Sport Sciences (B.Sc.) at Quincy University in Illinois. While acquiring this degree, I competed at the elite level in Basketball, Volleyball and Track and Field.

 

Upon graduating in December 2007, I was employed as a personal trainer and fitness instructor. My extensive knowledge in sports and fitness led me to conduct health seminars at various organizations.

 

Subsequently, I continued my studies and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) from Trent University. Currently, I am employed as a care coordinator at the Central Local Health Integration Network. I am also a basketball development and training coach for youth athletes.

 

How has sport helped you develop skills for your work today?

 

Competing in basketball provided me with necessary life skills. Being an athlete taught me: DISCIPLINE (on and off the court). We needed to be early for all practices and games – if not, there were consequences. COMMUNICATION – My teammates had various personalities. I often had teammates that were unfriendly, however, I had to set aside my own feelings for the sake of the team. PROBLEM SOLVING – Fighting for a common goal with a group of players and coaches taught me how to build teamwork and effectively communicate to solve problems. PERFORMANCE AT WORK – the determination and goal-setting skills that was required in basketball was transferred to my work life. CONFIDENCE – Watching my hard work pay off and achieving my goals developed my self-confidence.

 

Why do you consider yourself a leader? How do you define leadership?

 

Leadership is a practical skill which includes the ability of an individual/organization to guide other individuals, teams, or entire organizations. Leaders inspire their followers to complete the necessary tasks in a timely manner. Leaders are good listeners – they understand the needs of their team and do their best to address them. A good leader will assist in the development of their followers.