March 24, 2025
“Networking, networking, and networking” is the mantra Moshood Adebule (SCI ’25) swears by. For Adebule, networking isn’t just a social strategy—it’s a powerful tool that has defined his journey to becoming a Product Manager at Capital One.
“You can have all the skills in the world,” he reflects, “but if you don’t know people who can get you into different places, those skills won’t matter.” Adebule emphasizes that every opportunity he’s received came not solely from his knowledge or expertise, but from connections he nurtured. “No matter how much you know, there’s always someone who knows more. Networking puts you over the top, giving you a hand in whatever you want to achieve.”
Networking is more than just a career strategy – it is a catalyst for transformation. Whether it was peers, student organizations, or faculty members, these relationships did not just open doors for Adebule; they transformed his perspective. Adeuble's ability to build relationships became the cornerstone of his success in the field of computing and information.
Funnily enough, Adebule never thought his future would lie in computer science—his passion in high school was dentistry. However, his interest in technology gradually took center stage as Adebule became the go-to person for anything tech-related in his community—whether it was setting up WiFi, troubleshooting devices for family members, or updating his Mosque’s food pantry website by uploading photos and making necessary modifications. It wasn’t until his junior and senior years of high school, when he took a computing course and later a coding class, that he truly realized his calling. These classes sparked a new curiosity, and combined with his hands-on experiences in his community, they solidified his path toward a future in technology.
At the University of Pittsburgh, Adebule immersed himself in a variety of courses, clubs, and experiences that shaped his journey. Through courses like CS 445 and CS 447, he gained not only technical knowledge but also valuable soft skills—learning how to work in a team, ask for help when needed, and be proactive in problem-solving. These skills became crucial in his diverse experiences across product management, software engineering, and consulting.
Beyond academics, Adebule found immense support and a strong network of peers and mentors in Pitt’s Minority Association in Computing (MAC). The Computer Science Club also provided additional support when he needed help with assignments. And furthermore, grounding him in his community, Adebule leads prayer and Quranic recitation in the Muslim Students Association (MSA).
A major part of Adebule’s networking came from the professors and advisors he built strong relationships with. One faculty who stood out to him was Professor Patricia Quirin, whom he took CS 0590 (Social Implications of Computing Information) with last semester. Adebule deeply admired her for her constant support, understanding, and willingness to help whenever he had questions. In addition, Adebule’s academic advisor, Anna Hermann, was always available to answer any questions or concerns, while Gail Wolfe, his honors advisor, provided valuable guidance that helped him navigate his academic path. In terms of his professional career, Adebule thanks Jennifer Welton as a mentor and a fantastic person of reference, guiding him through offers, and career fair oppurtunities.
“ Every opportunity I have received was from networking, not necessarily how much I know,” said Adebule.
For Adebule, attending conferences like AfroTech was a result of networking efforts, and became a place where connections turned into opportunities. At AfroTech, Adebule saw how many attendees had the same technical skills before and after the event, but by engaging in conversations and building relationships, they landed internships and job offers.
Adebule’s proactive approach paid off—he walked away with not only multiple interviews, but also offers from top companies. Reflecting on his experience, he reiterated that at the end of the day, everyone—no matter their title—is just a person. Seeing professionals face-to-face made him realize that meaningful connections were within reach, as long as he was willing to take that first step.
“ No matter how like big you get or anything, you have to stay hungry because it's easy to lose.”
Looking ahead, Adebule is setting his sights on product management, but his ambitions extend far beyond a traditional career path. His drive for independence and control over his future led him to seek opportunities beyond the conventional 9-to-5 structure.
Adebule’s personal goals reveal that he is studying for his real estate license and expanding his car restoration business, thus balancing corporate experience with entrepreneurial ventures. His ultimate goal is to use his time in the industry to gain capital and experience before transitioning full-time into his own businesses.
Despite his entrepreneurial aspirations, Adebule remains highly interested in product management as a career choice while he builds his businesses. He sees it as an engaging and dynamic role that aligns with his strengths. "As a product manager, you're talking to stakeholders and communicating that to software engineers," he noted. He appreciates the interactive nature of the role, where he can bridge the gap between business needs and technical teams. Whether through corporate experience or entrepreneurship, Adebule is determined to carve out a path that allows him to take ownership of his future.