Model with a 4.0 GPA in Graduate School
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By Hadiatou Wann | 02/09/2019
In life, there are achievers, and then there are overachievers. Aissata Diallo is an overachiever! Models are, for the most part, plastered all over magazines and billboards for their looks. But, Diallo is more than a beautiful face. She is a model who is proudly wrapping up graduate school with a 4.0 GPA.
Born in Guinea, Conakry, Diallo came to the United States at the age of 12.
“My parents did not come all the way [to the United States] just so I can sit at home and not pursue a higher education,” Diallo said.
Many students have seen all types of grades throughout their academic journey, from a big fat F to a big fat A. Diallo has been an A student all her life. In fact, she would cry if she received even an A- . Most people would be satisfied with an A-. Not Diallo. Seeing a grade lower than A makes her cringe.
Diallo completed her undergrad studies in Biology at the University of Albany in 2013. She is currently studying her master’s in Healthcare Administration at Saint Joseph’s University.
Innitially, Diallo aspired to become a doctor, but because she found out that needles and blood spooked her out, she opted for a different profession. Getting a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration will enable her to still work in the healthcare field, but in the administrative department.
Usually, when students complete the Fall and Spring semester, they hurriedly push their textbooks to the side and turn up with friends. Diallo enjoys learning. She always took classes even during breaks.
She can be goofy at times, but can also easily shift gears and concentrate on her studies when she needs to.
Fatoumata Cayol, Diallo's cousin, confirms that Diallo “Is one of the most caring and compassionate people” that she knows . Cayol adds, “No matter the circumstances, she always finds a way to help people out in any way that she can. She looks out for everyone around her and even strangers. There aren’t a lot of people out there like her, especially in society today. “
Two years ago, Diallo visited Guinea and was taken aback by the lack of development in hospitals. This discovery is what propelled Diallo to return to the states and pursue a graduate degree, all in hopes of one day help improve healthcare back home.
The Guinean-born has both academic success and social media success. She has garnered over 82,000 followers on Instagram since the start of her modeling career, and admits that having a large following has surely opened many opportunities for her. She has collaborated with brands like ESSENCE, Outre, was in an ad for finess app “Aaptiv,” and more!
Diallo is a senior. Many scratch their heads and attempt to figure out how someone could possibly amass a 4.0 GPA in graduate school while taking on modeling gigs. Diallo considers it a piece of cake. “ It’s not hard. If you put your mind to it, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t get an A,” said the 25-year-old independent model signed to EMG Models.
“You just have to study and prioritize,” Diallo added. She certainly mastered time management.
Diallo dismisses the belief that a woman should only pursue one passion. She says, “You can do both.” You can embrace being a nerd and also be a sought after model.
Being an educated model helps Diallo navigate in the modeling world and has earned her tremendous respect.
Diallo is proof that if you give it your all , a 4.0 GPA is at reach. You can be young, aim high and work towards reaching any goals you envision for yourself.
Welcome to Diallo’s World
Photo credit: Stanley Babb
“A strong woman is someone who gets to be herself in her own terms.”
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“More brands are open to diversity because they know that’s what people are into now.”
“Fear, to me, is anything that gets in the way of you reaching your full potential. Fear can be scary at times, but it doesn’t always mean that you need to be in danger per say. The way I believe one can overcome fear is by facing it. That’s not always easy to do, but you have to be willing to take that step. Don’t force it or rush it, but rather little by little work towards confronting your fear, and eventually put it to rest.”
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“Everyone wants to grow up so fast. Enjoy your youth!”
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“Follow your dreams. Do what makes you happy, and don’t let anyone stop you from achieving your goals.”
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“I love modeling! It made me more confident about myself and love myself.”
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“ If you want to look like everyone else, why would brands want you? Love your skin. Embrace your uniqueness. That’s what’s going to set you apart!”
Connect with Diallo:
Instagram: @aissatadiallo
Twitter: @blissfullqueen
YouTube: Blissfulqueen
Email: taissatadiallo@gmail.com
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