Taoheed Adeoye

Taoheed Adeoye is a biological sciences major from Aurora, IL

Hometown: Aurora, IL

High School: East Aurora High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2028

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Growing up, I wanted to do a lot of things. At one point, I dreamed of being a farmer because planting crops and raising animals seemed peaceful. Then, I got into engineering. I’d go around the house, taking screws out of everything just to see how it worked and try to build something new. But in the end, I ended up choosing a totally different path: medicine. 

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I’m majoring in biological sciences. When I was in high school, almost every class felt like a chore except for my biology class. Biology was the one subject I looked forward to because it felt easy, and it was amazing to learn about things most people don't even realize are happening. Unlike math or chemistry, where there’s usually just one answer, biology lets you explore. Choosing this major felt natural, especially since my goal is to become a pediatric surgeon someday. 

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes. Last year, I worked in Dr. Martin’s lab on a water quality project. We tested water samples from Watson Creek and the Kishwaukee River, focusing on chloride levels near the school. It was interesting to see how the salt used for snow and ice affects those levels after rainfall. This year, I will be working with Dr. Martin and other students on a project called “Fly Behavioral Genetics.” We aim to identify the genes that control behavior in fruit flies and explore how those same genes may relate to human behavior.  

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Conducting research has opened many opportunities for me. Thanks to Research Rookies, I was able to learn valuable skills, such as finding credible and helpful sources from around the world. It also helped me develop the ability to think like a researcher, such as coming up with research ideas and learning how to carry them out effectively. I gained experience in presenting my research, as well. Even though I made some mistakes, I still have the next three years to improve my presentation skills. Through research, I was also able to build connections with other biology majors. I received helpful advice from students a year ahead of me on how to strengthen my resume and prepare a strong medical school application. Additionally, participating in research increased my chances of qualifying for the McKearn Fellowship, which supports my research throughout my undergraduate career. The McKearn program has also expanded my network by connecting me with other driven students and professionals beyond NIU. It gives me guidance and support as I prepare to apply for national scholarships and continue growing both academically and professionally.  

How will your research experience help you in the future?
I’ve learned important skills like finding reliable sources, preparing presentations and asking good research questions. This makes me a more confident researcher, which will help in both school and my career.  

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
The Research Rookies staff helped me build skills and gave me one-on-one guidance. Dr. Bill Martin welcomed me into his lab. My mentor, Aleena, was super helpful when it came to school tips and even prepped me for the Conference on Undergraduate Research and Engagement (CURE) presentation. My research partners supported me when things got confusing. However, the biggest takeaway from this experience was to keep asking questions. Curiosity is what takes us far, and with research, instead of shutting down unconventional ideas or seeing them as “stupid,” I was able to explore topics myself to see if they were realistic.  

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
Stay open-minded. The research you think you want to do might not be what you start with, and that’s okay. Email professors, even those you don’t know. Not all will reply, but that’s normal. Talk to professors in your classes, join clubs and network. Opportunities often come from unexpected places.  

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
How willing people are to help. I didn’t expect such a supportive community, from staff to peers. It’s comforting to know there’s always someone ready to help if you reach out. One way they reach out is via messages. Sometimes there are so many it might feel annoying, but I like to see it as a way to reach those who are scared to reach out themselves or just to check in with students. The community advisors also do a great job of this.  

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I make friends by sitting near others in class, joining discussions and starting conversations about sports or TV shows. Volunteering and clubs helped, too. I would suggest finding some interesting hobbies, that way you have more chances of meeting people who also love the things you enjoy.  

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities?
Yes. I’m in BUSA (Biological Sciences Undergraduate Student Association), the Tennis Club and NPREMA (a pre-med club). I also did Research Rookies and plan to apply for an undergraduate research assistant position next year. This year, I started attending the Child Life Association (CLA), and I currently serve as a student senator for the Student Government Association (SGA).  

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
My advisor, Tracy Ash, was great, helping me plan freshman year and suggesting goals like getting my CNA certification. Clubs like BUSA and NPREMA also helped me meet people from med school and learn about their experiences.  

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
Most came through the Suitable app, which has tons of events and helps you earn badges for graduation. The weekly honors newsletter has lots of useful info, even if it’s a bit long.  

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
The events and chances to connect with others. One event I loved was Appreciation of the Arts, where I watched “Mary Stuart.” The passion on stage gave me chills. I vowed to attend every show, but life had other plans.  

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
I have several favorites across subjects because they teach differently, show passion and support students. It’s hard to pick just one.  

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I’ve made friends with similar goals, stayed motivated and learned from questions I wouldn’t have thought of. Recorded lectures are nice, but I can’t trust myself to stay focused through an hour-long video.  

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
The fourth floor of the library. It gets quiet in the evening and has a window with a nice view of the sunset and the campus.   

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Visit campuses if you can. Walk around, talk to students and ask for directions just to see how friendly people are. You get a better feel for the community that way, as well as honest opinions from students who are paying to attend, not students who are being paid to represent the school.  

Why is a college education important to you?
College is my path to a better future. My parents sacrificed a lot so I could have these opportunities. It’s not just about the degree; it’s about making their sacrifices count and building the life they dreamed of.  

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use a planner with to-do lists and scheduled times. This helps me juggle classes, research and social time without going crazy.  

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I follow NIU groups on Instagram, get the weekly honors newsletter and use the Suitable app.  

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I watch animated history videos on YouTube like Oversimplified and Bluejay, read books by Katie Alender or just zone out. My favorite way to relax is by watching football. It’s more stressful than relaxing, because I support Arsenal, a team that fumbles when it matters the most, but we will end our 22-year drought (hopefully).   

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
During the summer, I volunteer as a CNA, assisting the elderly with tasks such as feeding, dressing and more. In my free time, I listen to different types of songs regardless of the language. If it sounds good, it’s good. My all-time favorite artist is Michael Jackson, but lately, I’ve been into Giveon. I’m also working on writing a book called “Echoes of the Last War,” which imagines a future where melting glaciers release ancient bacteria and viruses that alter humanity and force people to live underground. The story follows the children of a former commander who tries to unite rival kingdoms and bring peace to a fractured world, only to realize that true harmony might be impossible if life itself exists.