For Cal State East Bay volleyball standout Barakat Adekola, the sport has always been more than just competition—it's been a teacher, a community, and a second chance. Now a graduate student-athlete, Adekola is embracing the opportunity to continue her journey both on the court and in the classroom while representing the Pioneers with pride.
 
"Cal State East Bay felt like the right place for me to grow both as a person and as an athlete," Adekola said. "It gave me the chance to continue playing the sport I love while earning my master's degree in a diverse and welcoming environment. After taking time away from volleyball, getting the opportunity to play again means a lot to me, and I'm grateful that East Bay believed in me enough to give me that chance."
 
That sense of gratitude and purpose drives everything Adekola does. Whether it's early morning practices or late-night study sessions, she approaches each day with a deep awareness of how far she's come—and how much she still hopes to give back.
 
"What inspires me most is the constant opportunity to grow," she said. "On the court, in the classroom, and as a person. Volleyball has always been more than just a sport to me; it's where I've learned discipline, teamwork, and how to push through hard moments. My biggest inspiration comes from my family, especially my parents, who sacrificed so much to create opportunities for me. Their strength, faith, and sacrifices remind me to stay grateful and give my all in everything I do."
 
Adekola's path hasn't been a straight line. After stepping away from volleyball following her sophomore year, she faced moments of uncertainty and self-doubt. But through reflection, faith, and the support of her loved ones, she rediscovered her love for the game and her belief in herself.
 
"One of the hardest challenges I faced during my athletic journey was when I stepped away from volleyball after my sophomore year of college," she shared. "There were moments when I felt burnout, doubt, and pressure that made me question myself. But I learned to stay grounded through faith, discipline, and the support of people who believed in me. Taking a step back and then finding my way back to the game reminded me that growth isn't always a straight line—it's about learning, healing, and coming back stronger."
 
Off the court, Adekola's ambitions extend beyond athletics. She's pursuing a career in business analytics or supply chain management, areas that align with her analytical mindset and passion for problem-solving.
 
"In my ideal future, I see myself living with purpose and growing in my career while still having time to enjoy life, travel, and give back to others," she said. "Professionally, I want to work in business analytics or supply chain management, helping companies make better decisions through data. My field of study has always connected to how I think. I love finding patterns, solving problems, and improving systems. I also hope to stay involved within the volleyball community."
 
Beyond her studies and sport, Adekola is deeply passionate about representation, equality, and mental health awareness, particularly for young women, minorities, and student-athletes who may not always feel seen or supported.
 
"I'm passionate about representation and equality, especially for young women, minorities, and student-athletes who don't always see themselves in certain spaces," Adekola said. "I know what it's like to feel different and still want to belong. I care deeply about helping others feel seen and supported, and I believe mental health awareness, especially in sports, is something we need to keep talking about. Everyone deserves the space to grow and be understood."
 
For Adekola, volleyball has been both a proving ground and a source of empowerment, a reminder that perseverance, community, and purpose can turn any challenge into an opportunity for growth.
 
"Coming to East Bay gave me a fresh start," she reflected. "It reminded me that you can always rewrite your story if you're willing to put in the work."