Oluwafadeyemi Akinkuolie-Ibidapo was introduced to the ATTAIN Lab through the Yonkers YWCA community after connecting with Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE). She joined the Lab as part of a summer youth employment program, bringing with her a basic understanding of Microsoft Office applications gained through school. Knowing how valuable technology skills are in today’s workforce, she saw the ATTAIN Lab as an opportunity to strengthen her abilities and prepare for future career opportunities.
“I really valued the chance to improve my skills and learn more about the Microsoft Suite. The ATTAIN Lab gave me the support and confidence I needed to keep growing.”
Turning Determination into Achievement
Over the course of just four weeks, Oluwafadeyemi completed the Microsoft Suite training program and achieved exceptional certification exam scores ranging from 850 to 978. Motivated by her success, she submitted her scores to qualify for national competition, never imagining what would happen next.
When Microsoft and Certiport contacted her with the news, she learned that she had earned first place in New York State and would represent the state in the National Microsoft PowerPoint 365 Competition in Tennessee.
Oluwafadeyemi was thrilled to learn she would be representing New York State on the national stage, transforming a personal learning goal into an extraordinary achievement.
Applying Skills Beyond the Classroom
The knowledge she gained through the ATTAIN Lab quickly translated into real-world success. As an undergraduate intern working in Congress, she used Excel for project work and Outlook to manage professional communications. The certifications she earned also strengthened her résumé, helping her stand out as a candidate and secure a competitive real estate internship in New York City.
“Owning these new skills has helped me so much in both school and work. The ATTAIN Lab truly helped me build a stronger foundation for my future.”
A Foundation for Future Success
Through dedication, hard work, and the support of the ATTAIN Lab, Oluwafadeyemi transformed her existing knowledge into nationally recognized achievement. Her journey demonstrates how technical skills, confidence, and opportunity can open doors to internships, professional experiences, and future career success.
From improving Microsoft Office skills to representing New York State in a national competition, Oluwafadeyemi’s story highlights the power of lifelong learning and the opportunities that follow when students invest in their future.