Congratulations on your remarkable achievement. Graduating with a First Class in Chemistry at just 21 is no small feat. What did that accomplishment mean to you personally?

Thank you very much. It meant a great deal to me. I felt fulfilled and deeply grateful. Beyond academic success, it was about making my parents proud.

My mother was present when my name was called, and I received my plaque from the Vice Chancellor. Having her witness that moment was incredibly emotional, especially considering the admission challenges I faced earlier on.

She stood by me through everything, constantly reassuring me and reminding me of my potential. To see her there celebrating that milestone with me meant the world. I’m proud of myself as well, and above all, I’m grateful to God for how far He has brought me.

Would you say your family played a major role in shaping your journey?

Absolutely! I come from a family of four children, and I’m the third. My family has been a strong support system throughout my academic journey.

What about your father? How has he influenced your path?

My father has been a very significant part of my life. He may not be very visible publicly, but his presence in my life is profound. He has been my financial backbone, my adviser, and a steady source of strength.

He wasn’t able to attend my convocation due to an important commitment he had to attend to, but his support has always been consistent. I owe a lot to both my parents for their sacrifices and belief in me.

Was academic excellence always your identity, or did you just grow into it?

Academic excellence is not an option in my family. It’s something you should do, and you will do. My sister is an excellent nurse. My brother is also doing well in his academics. So, academic excellence is not optional. It’s something you must attain, and you must obtain.

What early influences shaped your intellectual discipline?

My dad has always been very supportive of my academic journey, and my sister as well. They’ve both been strong sources of motivation for me. From my primary school days, I was very intentional about doing well.

Back then, my dad would say, ‘If you come first, second, or third in your class, I’ll be very happy.’ Whenever I achieved that, he would be pleasantly surprised. Sometimes he would say, ‘Oh, Samuel, let’s go out,’ and that small gesture meant a lot to me. It wasn’t necessarily about material rewards, but about recognition and encouragement.

As a child, those moments motivated me. I didn’t always see it as a big deal at the time, but looking back, I realise it shaped my mindset. Now, I pursue excellence for myself. Over time, I’ve also observed how people speak to and relate to academically accomplished individuals.

I’ve seen the regard and respect they command. Being around scholars and academic examiners has inspired me. It’s something I aspire to — not just the recognition, but the discipline and depth that come with it.

Many students are intelligent, but not all graduates finish with distinction. So, what differentiated you?

I’ve always believed that one thing about life and academic excellence is that it is not just a test of intelligence or brilliance: it’s a test of discipline and consistency. I’ve seen students start strong in their first year with a 5.0 or 4.8 CGPA, and then something happens — they lose focus or backslide.

So, earning a first-class degree isn’t just about being smart; it’s about staying consistent and dedicated over time. To graduate with a first class, you must be intelligent and capable, but that alone is not enough. You must also be disciplined and consistent. A first class requires a minimum CGPA of 4.5 on a 5.0 scale.

That means you have to maintain high scores — 4 points and above — semester after semester. It’s not about one peak performance; it’s about sustaining that peak. For me, consistency was the major differentiating factor.

What was your CGPA?

My final CGPA was 4.63 out of 5.0.

Can you walk us through your study structure?

When I first entered the university, I didn’t really have a defined structure. In secondary school, I didn’t even write notes in class. I simply made sure I attended all my lectures — that was non-negotiable for me. But university was different. I knew I was in a new environment, and I needed a more intentional approach.

So, I started attending tutorials regularly. That was a major turning point. I also connected with serious-minded classmates who helped me understand how to navigate the system effectively. Tutorials played a key role in shaping my academic life.

In terms of routine, during the first few weeks of each semester, I focused on understanding my courses and getting familiar with the lecturers’ expectations. After that, I created a reading pattern.

I studied at least four to five times a week, even if it was just for 30 minutes. Sometimes I read early in the morning around 4 or 5 am, just to stay ahead and remain familiar with my coursework.

I made it a point to attend all classes and never miss tests or assignments. Staying informed about continuous assessments was important to me because those marks became very useful. More importantly, I ensured that this routine was consistent — not just for a few weeks, but throughout the semester.

What habits did you deliberately build that most students overlook?

One major habit I built was discipline. There were times I wanted to join the departmental football team and matches, or training sessions often clashed with my reading time. For someone who lacks discipline, it becomes a constant struggle — deciding between immediate enjoyment and long-term goals.

I had to make uncomfortable choices sometimes. There were moments I had to sacrifice what I enjoyed to protect my academic standards. Discipline, for me, meant prioritising what truly mattered, even when it wasn’t convenient. I’ve always made discipline non-negotiable for myself.

I tell myself; I have to do this; I have to do that, even when it’s uncomfortable. There were times I hadn’t eaten all day, but I made sure I stayed focused and didn’t give in to temptations or distractions. Even if failure seemed possible, I knew I had to stick to my plan and keep my standards high.

Consistency has been equally important. I set goals for myself — maybe 200 days, maybe 300 days of disciplined effort — and I make sure I follow through. If I stop midway, all my prior efforts would feel wasted. So, for me, discipline and consistency go hand in hand.

Dealing with distractions like social life, relationships, and campus activities was a matter of prioritisation. I made it clear to myself that academics always came first. Yes, I attended social events, joined departmental activities, and even engaged in some campus politics, but my studies were always my top priority.

I believe in balance — balancing life’s experiences with the academic achievements I aim for. But I won’t lie; I was still a victim of distractions at times. That’s part of life and part of learning how to manage your focus. What mattered was that I always returned to my main goal and stayed consistent. When I was in school, I also learnt tech.

Were there courses in chemistry that stretched you beyond your comfort zone? How did you conquer them?

Yes, definitely. Chemistry in our country can be quite abstract at times. Even if you ask your lecturers, some concepts can feel out of reach. I found that supplementing classroom learning with resources like YouTube and Google, as well as seeking guidance from seniors, made a huge difference.

For example, organic chemistry was particularly challenging. It’s very structured and can feel almost mechanical at first — you don’t always feel ‘alive’ while learning it. But I embraced the challenge, explored different learning methods, and gradually built a strong understanding. In the end, tackling courses like organic chemistry was extremely rewarding.

What initially drew you to study chemistry?

Interestingly, I originally wanted to study agriculture. That was my plan a year before I came to university. I even applied for admission in agriculture, but I didn’t get in. When I came to Olabisi Onabanjo University, I was looking for a course that aligned closely with my original goal of chemical engineering.

Since chemical engineering wasn’t available there, I chose chemistry. I genuinely love chemistry — its diversity, complexity, and the way it challenges you intellectually.

So, you switched your interest from agriculture to chemistry — how did that decision come about?

It was a process of reflection and understanding what I truly wanted. I realised I needed a course I wouldn’t regret choosing. I was influenced by a mentor I followed on TikTok, who emphasised that you shouldn’t pick a course just because your friends are doing it or because it has a better name.

I decided to choose chemistry because it aligned with my interests, my career goals, and my strengths. That realisation was crucial — it helped me commit fully and stay motivated.

In your view, how can chemistry contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development?

Thank you for the question. I would say chemistry is incredibly diverse and touches almost every aspect of development. Broadly, chemistry can be divided into two major areas: organic and inorganic. Within organic chemistry, you have synthesis and natural products.

Natural products, for example, involve understanding the chemistry behind substances we encounter in everyday life — the reactions that happen within those substances and how they interact with the environment. There’s also pharmaceutical chemistry, which deals with drug development and applications.

In inorganic chemistry, production processes are key. For instance, in the oil and gas industry, chemistry is behind the separation of crude oil into different hydrocarbons like petroleum motor spirit and other derivatives.

Source: Punch

The post I sacrificed pleasure to protect my academic standards — OOU first-class graduate appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Where are you from?

I hail from Ifewara, Atakunmosa West, Osun State, and I am the first child of six.

Which set did you graduate with?

I graduated with the 2024/2025 set as the second overall best graduating student. We were actually two with the same CGPA.

How old are you?

I am 24 years old.

What was your first reaction when you saw your final result of 4.87 CGPA?

When I first saw my final result of 4.87 CGPA, I felt a deep mix of gratitude and fulfilment. I started my academic journey with a 4.92 GPA, and from that moment, I challenged myself to aim higher by pursuing a perfect GPA.

Even though I didn’t achieve that goal until my final semester, it felt like the fulfilment of a long-term vision. For me, it was the true definition of finishing strong. I knew I could have done even better, but I was deeply thankful, content, and proud of the consistency and growth that defined my journey.

Many students dream of graduating with a first class, but few achieve it. What would you say was the secret behind your consistency?

The first secret behind my consistency and success is God. The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6). I understood very early that excellence is not sustained by intelligence alone, but by grace and absolute trust in God.

My parents were also a major pillar behind everything people see today. When I was offered admission, they gave me three guiding principles that shaped my entire journey: to pray as if I had nobody, to read as if I hadn’t prayed, and the third was a personal commitment that remains sacred to me.

Beyond words, they reinforced excellence through intentional actions. When my 100-level first semester results came out, they rewarded me with N20,000 and made a clear promise of N50,000 if I achieved a perfect GPA in the next semester, N20,000 if I maintained the 4.92, and nothing if it dropped below that standard.

That moment changed my mindset, and I became a competitor to myself, constantly pushing to reach higher — not just for the reward, but for the discipline, excellence, and growth it represented. I also made strict personal academic rules for myself. I never missed classes or took lectures for granted.

I was very intentional about note-taking and attention to detail during lectures, and I made it a personal discipline to always sit in front of the class so I could stay focused and engaged.

I read daily, not only during exam periods, and I revised every topic immediately after it was taught, avoiding last-minute preparation and panic reading by building consistency into my routine.

Another major factor was the friends I made in school. I was very intentional about the people I lived, moved, and read with. We literally lived together, studied together, and grew together. Whenever I was drifting from the standards I set for myself, they were there to correct, remind, and motivate me.

We were four close friends; three of us graduated with First Class, and the fourth graduated with a 4.45 CGPA. That environment of excellence, accountability, and discipline played a huge role in sustaining my consistency.

What was the toughest academic challenge you faced in FUOYE, and how did you overcome it?

The toughest academic challenge I faced in FUOYE was finding balance in my final semester. I was carrying multiple responsibilities at the same time. I was deeply involved in leadership roles in my church, and I was handling the intense demands of the One-Day Vice-Chancellor contest, including exams and projects.

I was working on my undergraduate research and trying to meet all the academic and personal demands that naturally came with the final semester. It became overwhelming, and at one point, it took a toll on my health. That was when I realised that strength alone was not enough; I needed structure and strategy.

I had to sit down, re-strategise, prioritise, and become more intentional with my time and energy. I learnt how to say no, how to delegate, how to pace myself, and how to place boundaries around my commitments.

To the glory of God, none of these was affected, as everything was completed excellently. That season taught me one of the most important lessons: balance is not about doing everything at once, but about doing the right things at the right time with wisdom.

What silent battle do you think many people might not know you fought whilst in school?

One silent battle I faced in school was the weight of living up to both my own expectations and those of others. I had set very high standards for myself, and maintaining that level of excellence every day was exhausting. It required constant discipline, focus, and self-motivation.

Most people saw the results, but they didn’t see the long nights and moments of doubt. Often, I would quietly burst into tears, and the only words I would mutter under my breath, almost subconsciously, were, “Holy Spirit, please help me.”

That struggle, however, became my greatest teacher. It taught me resilience, how to thrive under pressure, and the extraordinary power of self-discipline and faith. Today, I do not see that silent battle as a burden, but as the fire that refined the person I have become.

Can you describe your daily reading routine while in school, especially during exam periods?

I didn’t have a fixed daily routine because I discovered more about myself almost every day, but one thing I made sure I maintained was reading at least two hours daily. It wasn’t always academic. Sometimes, I ensured I learnt something new — something that would expand my mind.

Academically, I often didn’t go home during semester breaks because I saw that time as an opportunity to re-strategise for the next semester. I would gather past questions from my senior colleagues and go through them, both on my own and with my friends. We treated all questions seriously, analysing them thoroughly, and that approach helped me stay ahead in identifying and sharpening my understanding, even before exams started.

Some students struggle with distractions on campus. How did you manage social life, friendships, and academics without losing focus?

I was what people often call a ‘triangular student’. I moved between school, church, and my hostel. People often labelled it a boring lifestyle, but I enjoyed it because I saw myself not just as a thought leader, but as an example.

I knew who I was even before the recognition and fame came. I constantly reminded myself that I am a success, and I shouldn’t just follow the crowd, but rather set the standard. That mindset helped me stay focused and disciplined, while still engaging meaningfully with my friends and community.

As a beautiful young lady, did you get involved in any romantic relationship while in school?

No, I didn’t get involved in any romantic relationship while in school because I understood the principles of time and season. I was very intentional about the kind of legacy I wanted to build. My energy was dedicated to my personal growth and faith-based commitments.

Didn’t you have admirers, especially men, who used to disturb you?

Yes, of course, there were admirers. But I was very clear about my focus, priorities, and boundaries. I understood my season, my goals, and the standards I had set for myself, so I remained disciplined and intentional in my choices. This is subjective and solely based on my own decision.

Can you share a moment you ever experienced heartbreak or emotional disappointment on campus?

I experienced many emotional disappointments on campus, and some were quite painful. One of them was the semester I got all ‘A’s and one ‘C’. On the surface, it might not seem like a big deal, but for me, it felt like failure.

Imagine someone who had just scored 4.92 in the previous semester, expecting a perfect GPA. I remember crying like a baby that day and telling myself that I needed to learn from the mistake and come back stronger.

Source: Punch Newspaper

The post Avoiding panic reading helped me achieve first class — FUOYE graduate appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Congratulations on your achievement.

Thank you.

What was your immediate reaction the day your results came out?

Well, I would say my first reaction was gratitude. It was gratitude and then excitement. I was grateful to God, and I was excited that I graduated with a first class.

Growing up, did you always see yourself studying law, or did this dream develop along the way?

Honestly, I had always seen myself in the legal field. Growing up, I was a very inquisitive child. I always asked questions and wanted to know more. I wanted to know why some things were the way they were. Then a lot of people started saying, ‘Oh, this girl will be a good lawyer.’

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a lawyer because I believed that in that field, I would be able to answer a lot of questions and also question things that seem normal — to understand what they really are and how to make them better.

What position are you in your family?

I’m the fourth child.

What year did you gain admission, and what really inspired you to choose law as a course of study?

I gained admission in 2021. Initially, when I wanted to choose a course of study, law was always on my mind. I wanted to study law and all of that, but it felt like an expensive course, especially in Nigeria. It seemed costly to study law, but I just knew that was what I wanted to do.

A lot of people said, ‘Law is expensive. Just pick another course — study Mass Communication or something that wouldn’t be as financially demanding.’ But I knew I wanted to study law, so it was a natural decision for me that I would become a lawyer.

At what point in your academic journey did you realise you could actually graduate with a first class?

I think that was in my 300-level. At that point, looking at my results, I realised that if I put in the work, stayed consistent, and remained determined, I could graduate with a first class.

Was your first year challenging?

I believe the first year is usually challenging for a lot of people, especially for me. I was quite young — I had just turned 16 when I resumed school. So yes, I was young, and there were a lot of lessons I learnt along the way, especially in my first year, when I made some mistakes.

I also made some good decisions. So, my 100-level was challenging, but it was nothing I could not handle. With the mercy of God, I finished my first year very well.

Can you tell me one of the mistakes you made?

In my first year, one of the things I would not exactly call a mistake, but something I wish I had done better, was thinking everyone was my friend. But moving forward after my 100-level, I realised that you have to choose your friends carefully, especially in university.

You have to choose the right people who share the same vision and are heading in the same direction as you. So, in my first year, I made some mistakes with the kind of people I called my friends and the qualities I looked for in people I considered friends.

Were you the youngest in your class?

Yes.

At any point, did you feel challenged or self-conscious being the youngest in your class, and how did you navigate that?

I think I’m grateful for the kind of course mates I had. Initially, a lot of people didn’t know my age. Growing up, I was always the youngest in most of my classes and among my friends. So, when I speak, people don’t usually realise how young I am.

Even when my course mates eventually knew my age, there was still a level of mutual respect they had for me. So, I didn’t really feel intimidated at any point. Rather, I saw my age as an advantage — something to hold on to, to do well, and to take advantage of my youth to achieve more for myself.

I’m proud to say that I am the first-ever first-class graduate from the Faculty of Law at Prince Abubakar Audu University since its inception. The Head of Department confirmed that the faculty had never produced a first-class student until I achieved this, breaking a 25-year record.

When did you officially graduate?

I saw my final results in October 2025, but our convocation happened in January this year (2026).

Did your background contribute to this achievement?

Sometimes I think about how being from where I’m from and attending the school I attended could have been a stumbling block. Compared to my contemporaries who went to private or federal schools or grew up in big cities, I had more exposure to opportunities. But I knew early in my academic journey that if I wanted to be exceptional, I needed to expand my mind beyond my environment.

So, I started looking for opportunities outside Kogi State and beyond my university. I connected with people in other schools and applied for opportunities outside my comfort zone so that I could have a level playing field. My environment could have been an obstacle if I had allowed it, but I decided not to.

Where were you born?

I was born and raised in Kogi State.

Law is known to be demanding, as you said. What was the biggest academic challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?

I think one of the biggest challenges of being a law student is having so much to do, so much to cover, and so much knowledge to assimilate and understand. A major way I overcame that was by allowing little actions to grow into big results.

My strategy was to do the little things and then watch them accumulate into good results. I made notes over the holidays and extra notes even after class. I consulted multiple textbooks and spoke to my friends and course mates about areas I didn’t understand or needed clarification on. I tried my best to take in knowledge and learn something new every day, as far as my courses were concerned.

I didn’t allow any day to go by without doing something that contributed to my academics — either making notes, reading, explaining something to someone, or having someone explain something to me.

Each day, I made sure I did something that contributed to my academics. In the long run, that helped me cover so much over time. So, when it was time for exams, I just had to go over what I already knew before sitting my exams.

Many students struggle with consistency. Some plan routines but still find it hard to follow through. What really worked for you? Were you able to discipline yourself, for example, to say, ‘I want to read two books today,’ and actually finish them?

I think what really helped me was having a goal in front of me. A lot of people say, ‘I want to be consistent. I want to read my books. I want to do this.’ But you need to know what you want to achieve with all those actions. When I knew that what was before me was graduating with a first-class degree, and that if I didn’t do what I needed to do, I might never achieve that, it became my motivation.

That didn’t cancel out the fact that on some days, I didn’t meet my goals as much as I would have liked. But I made sure not to remain in that “Oh, I didn’t do it, I feel bad” state. Instead, I picked myself up and ensured I did better the next time. For me, consistency meant showing up every day to the best of my ability.

If I said I wanted to read for two hours, I tried my best to do that. But if I only read for one hour, I didn’t sit and regret the one hour I didn’t use. Rather than spending time regretting, I used that time to reflect on how to do better the next day. So, it was a lot of reflection, determination, and being intentional about achieving my goal.

Source: Punch Newspaper

The post I Chose Books Over Clubbing To Earn First Class — Kogi Varsity Law Graduate appeared first on Teen Trust News.

What does it feel like being a first-class graduate?

It feels fulfilling, not just because of the grade, but because it represents consistency, discipline, and my growth over time. More than the title, it reassures me that the effort and sacrifices were worth it.

How old are you? 

I am 24 years old.

Do you think maturity contributed to your academic success at UNILAG?

Yes, I believe it did. My programme was supposed to last four years, which meant I should have graduated between 2023 and 2024, when I would have been about 22 years old. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ASUU strike, the duration was extended.

Interestingly, that period turned out to be beneficial. I used the extra time to explore other interests and develop additional skills. I am also a software developer, and that period exposed me to learning and building skills alongside my academics. I would say that the extended period contributed significantly to my success because I learnt how to balance work with academics effectively.

Has any company approached you for a job?

No, not yet.

Tell me about yourself.

I am from Unubi, in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, although I was raised in Lagos. I had my primary, secondary, and tertiary education in Lagos.

I completed my secondary education in 2017, but due to financial challenges, I could not proceed to university immediately. I stayed with my uncle, who runs a business at Balogun Market. While there, I worked and also applied to the University of Lagos, but I was not admitted in my first attempt. I tried again the following year, and in 2019, I gained admission into UNILAG.

I am the first of four children. My parents also live in Lagos, and my mother is a tailor. That, in summary, is my background.

You graduated with a perfect CGPA of 5.00. What did you do differently?

Several factors contributed to that achievement. When I first gained admission, I didn’t have many friends, and shortly after, the COVID-19 lockdown happened, forcing us to return home and attend classes online.

One key factor was adaptability. I learnt to adapt quickly to changing situations, especially online learning. Once I set a goal—to graduate with a first-class degree—I deliberately removed obstacles that stood in my way.

I knew I had challenges with courses that involved heavy calculations, so I sought alternative learning methods, such as YouTube tutorials, to better understand difficult topics.

Another important factor was community. I joined a study group in my class called ‘The Achievers’. The group consisted of like-minded students who shared the same academic goals.

Being surrounded by people who were equally focused and, in some cases, academically stronger motivated me to push myself further. When you are among people who challenge you intellectually, it pushes you to grow and improve.

I would also add that my class study group contributed significantly to my success. The group fostered a high level of discipline, as there were clear rules that every member was expected to follow. 

Complying with those rules required commitment and consistency, especially in terms of showing up and being accountable. That structure helped me stay focused.

What was your reading schedule and study regimen like?

My reading culture was very structured. I usually started reading my coursework from the beginning of the semester. Once lecturers released the course outlines, I reached out to seniors who had taken the courses in previous sessions to get their outlines and materials.

I compared them to see what had changed and what hadn’t. If there were no major changes, I knew their materials would still be useful.

Getting access to these materials early helped me to start studying immediately. Reading from the start of the semester significantly reduced academic pressure for me. It allowed me to focus better at work without constantly worrying about unfinished reading or pending coursework.

I also developed a strong sense of discipline and consistency by making reading a daily habit. I didn’t fix a specific number of hours to read because my work schedule was unpredictable. Instead, I set a minimum goal of at least one hour of reading every day.

There were days when I read for six to eight hours, and other days when I could only manage one or two hours. The key thing was that I never skipped a day. Over time, this consistency became a habit.

On days when I hadn’t read, I felt incomplete, as though I hadn’t fully accomplished my goals for the day, until I picked up my books—even if it was just for one hour.

Most of my reading was done during the daytime, when I was most productive. I usually started reading early in the morning, before resuming work. I often left home as early as 6am or 7am, set up my work tools, and read until it was time for work meetings.

Why did you decide to fund yourself through school?

I have other siblings, and my parents also needed to send them to school. To reduce the financial burden on them, I decided to take responsibility for my own expenses. From my 200-level to 400-level, I paid my tuition, accommodation, and other school-related bills myself.

Because of this, I wasn’t focused on academics alone; I had to work to support myself financially while studying.

What kind of work did you do?

First, I worked as a software developer, building products for companies. That was my primary source of income.

Secondly, I ran academic tutorials on campus. Along with a friend of mine, Joseph, we established the tutorial centre at my 200-level. Over time, we enrolled students and taught them alongside other instructors, which also provided a steady source of income.

In addition, I worked with tech organisations that taught technology skills to secondary school students. These organisations partner schools, secure contracts, and deploy instructors to teach tech-related subjects.

I served as one of the instructors, mostly during weekends, especially Saturdays. These were the three major sources of income that sustained me through school.

Can you give an approximate idea of your monthly earnings?

Some of the income streams were fixed salaries, while others depended on tutorial fees, which varied each semester due to economic conditions.

How much do students pay for your tutorials?

Currently, students pay N12,000 per semester, depending on the course. The plan I handle is N12,000 for one course for the semester.

How often do the classes hold?

At least once a week; sometimes they hold twice weekly. I currently conduct the tutorials online. I initially held them physically on campus, but I had to adapt.

At the 400 level, during my first semester, the University of Lagos was renovating hostels, and there was limited accommodation for students. As a result, many students were off campus, so moving the tutorials online became the most effective option.

That semester was eventually moved online, and we couldn’t simply suspend the tutorials. I had to research and adopt digital teaching tools that would allow me to continue effectively. I discovered platforms such as Microsoft Whiteboard, which I used to teach the students online.

One major advantage of this approach was the ability to record the classes. Unlike physical tutorials, where students might forget certain explanations and require repeated clarification, recorded sessions allowed them to revisit the lessons at any time. This made learning more flexible and effective.

After that first semester, the following semester was scheduled to return to physical classes. However, the students were polled to choose between physical and online tutorials, and the majority preferred the online option. Since then, I have continued conducting the tutorials online.

This transition also made it possible for me to continue the tutorials even after graduating from the University of Lagos, as the online format removed location barriers.

Source: Punch Newspaper

The post I feel incomplete if I don’t read every day — UNILAG best graduate appeared first on Teen Trust News.

It was a moment of ‘I did it.’ I broke the odds, stretched myself, and was proud of the woman I worked to become. I was happy and grateful to live in that moment.

Just to clarify, I graduated as the best graduating student in the Department of Geology and broke a record of over a decade in Applied Geophysics, which is under the Department of Geology. 

Can you share a bit about your background with us?

I am from Ondo State. I have three siblings, and I am the only daughter. My mum is a nurse, and my dad is a non-civil servant. While growing up, I was taught to always be hardworking and honest, regardless of the outcome, even when it came with discipline.

How old are you? 

I am 23 years old.

Did anyone in your family have a science or academic background that influenced you?

Yes, that would be my mum. She is like a superhero to me. She took great care of the family and was always going back to school to run one programme after another. As a child, this really amazed me, and she inspired me deeply.

When did you first realise you were academically inclined towards science?

That was when I was in primary school.

Why did you choose applied geophysics specifically, instead of other science-related courses?

I initially wanted to go into the medical line, but I didn’t meet up and ended up in applied geophysics. Over time, I grew to appreciate it and never regretted studying it. 

Was OAU your first choice?

Yes, OAU was my first choice. I was attracted by the reputation and the hype around Great Ife laughs.

How was your first year in OAU — emotionally, academically, and socially?

My first year was literally depressing because I didn’t like my course of study at all, coupled with the fact that we had to go home for almost a year due to COVID-19.

Resumption after the pandemic was emotionally challenging because I was back to a course I despised. I was advised that if I made a first class in part one, I could change my course. I worked hard and had a 4.72 GPA in my first semester.

However, I couldn’t apply for a change of course in the second semester for two reasons.

One, my part adviser, who later became my mentor and close friend, said he wouldn’t let me go because I was the top student. Two, I didn’t meet the course requirements for transfer.

At that time, classes were online, so I focused on rewriting the JAMB  exam and post-UTME, but I missed the cut-off by 1.3 marks. That period led to my lowest GPA in my undergraduate journey.

What was the biggest culture shock you experienced coming into university?

Most students are engaged in one business or another, either as small business owners or freelancers. OAU students are very industrious, even while still undergraduates.

What was the hardest course you took during your programme?

Every course has its challenges. I believe it’s about learning how to navigate them, so I wouldn’t say there was a particular course that stood out as the hardest.

Did you ever fail or perform poorly in any test, quiz, or exam? How did you handle it?

No, I never failed any exam. I had just one B in my departmental courses, aside from a few Bs in borrowed courses. I love to maintain a strong streak of As in my core courses.

Were there moments you felt like giving up?

Yes, Part 3 (300-Level) was a lot because I was trying hard to get a perfect GPA in both semesters, which many considered nearly impossible. I chose not to believe that because the only limitation you can have is the one you set for yourself.

I almost gave up, but I had two wonderful people in my life, Folorunso Joshua and Adedapo Adeduntan, who believed in me and constantly cheered me on, and I did make perfect GPAs.

How did you stay mentally strong during difficult periods?

Through prayer and by leaning on a few close friends I could trust. I also listened to podcasts during those moments. In tough times, you don’t need everyone, just God and a few good people.

Describe your typical study routine while in school.

My study routine had little to zero school-life balance. Most classes started from 8 am to 5 pm. Afterwards, I went home, freshened up, took a nap, and left by 9 pm for overnight reading.

By 6 am, when the school gate opened, I returned to my off-campus hostel to nap and prepare for classes. Sometimes, I stayed at my friend’s place on campus to save transportation costs. I took a couple of days’ or weeks’ outfits along.

I also had a personal bike that came to pick me up by 9 pm. I specifically did this so I wouldn’t get lazy or procrastinate because he would always call once he got to my gate, leaving me with no choice but to get up and go to campus.

What study methods worked best for you?

Active reading. Many students read, but they practise passive reading. I actively read by solving past questions immediately after reading for the day. I drafted questions or used past questions based on what I studied and solved them.

The next day, before moving to another topic, I tried to recall what I had previously read and refreshed my memory if needed.

I also didn’t stick strictly to what was taught in class. I loved going the extra mile to pick up interesting facts and build my notes. 

How did you handle distractions like social media, relationships, and peer pressure? 

Once the semester began, I stayed off all social media platforms and entered lock-in mode. I uninstalled all social media apps except WhatsApp for important class information. I rarely watched movies.

In terms of relationships, I had a supportive boyfriend who graduated from my department. He understood how important it was not to get distracted and encouraged me to stay diligent.

As for peer pressure, I believe like minds attract each other, so my friends weren’t really social or outgoing, and I wasn’t pressured at all.

Did you have a First Class in your first year, or did it build up over time?

No, I didn’t make a First Class in my first-year CGPA. I performed woefully in my second semester of Part 1 after realising I wouldn’t be able to cross to my desired course. I diverted my attention to JAMB and post-UTME and ended up with my lowest GPA ever.

I built my CGPA over time. After Part 2, I was already on a First Class. In Part 3, I had 5.0 GPAs in both semesters, and I capped it with a 5.0 and 4.86 in my final year, graduating with a 4.81 GPA.

Sometimes I wonder what grade I would have graduated with if I hadn’t lost focus in part one—maybe a 4.9 or even the overall best in the university, but I am grateful for how far I’ve come. Joy Osesanmi, an Applied Geophysics First-Class graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, speaks to TEMITOPE ADETUNJI about her journey from struggling with a course she initially didn’t love to achieving excellence through relentless focus and determination.

The post I locked myself out of social media to chase first class — OAU geophysics graduate appeared first on Teen Trust News.

How old were you when you gained admission to the university?

I’m a writer and studied Mass Communication at Babcock University. I was 15 when I gained admission. My set was the post-COVID intake, so things were quite different. Although I was admitted in 2021, I officially resumed in January 2022. I’m 19 years old now.

Tell us a little about your family background?

I’m from Delta State. I attended a private secondary school, and one thing I can say is that my father has always been very keen on giving us the best education. However, my parents never pressured us excessively about academic performance.

They didn’t insist that we must come first, second, or third in class. Their expectation was simply that we should maintain results above average.

So, much of my drive for academic excellence came from within. When I saw other students striving and excelling, I challenged myself to do the same. I must also add that sometimes, the recognition and validation given to high-performing students motivated me to push myself further.

 Looking back at your upbringing, were there early signs that you would grow to become academically outstanding?

Honestly, not at the very beginning. In nursery and early primary school, I wasn’t among the top one per cent in my class. But I started improving around Primary One and Two. I still remember scoring 90 per cent for the first time in Primary Two. I was so excited because before then, my results were mostly between 70 and 80. That achievement motivated me to keep pushing myself.

In secondary school, the competition became tougher. From JSS1 to JSS3, I was above average but not among the top performers. Things changed when I specialised as an arts student. I realised my strength and passion were in subjects like English, Literature, and Government. From then on, my performance significantly improved.

Why did you choose Mass Communication as your course of study? Was it because you had already discovered your strengths in secondary school?

Choosing a career path was confusing at first. Initially, I wanted to study Literature because of my love for English and writing. But I had to consider career prospects, especially within the Nigerian context.

When I reflected on my interests, two things kept recurring: writing and speaking. I was also very active in the press club and other extracurricular activities that helped me identify my strengths. Combining my passion for writing and speaking, Mass Communication seemed like the right fit.

What motivated you to choose Babcock University in particular?

Honestly, Babcock wasn’t my first choice. It was more of a backup option. My father encouraged me to select a private university as an alternative, so I included Babcock. At the time, I had just finished secondary school at 15, and federal universities seemed uncertain due to frequent strikes and delays.

I also had a family friend who was studying at Babcock, so I reached out to her for more information. Considering Nigeria’s educational challenges, I realised a private university would give me stability and help me graduate on time. That was a major factor in my decision to attend Babcock.

What does graduating with a first-class degree mean to you personally and to your family?

For me, graduating with a first class, 4.69 out of 5.0, is proof of my dedication to excellence. I always say that first class is not an end in itself, but it’s something every student should aspire to. It shows that over your years in school, whether four, five, or six, you were consistent, disciplined, and fully committed to your primary assignment, which is studying.

So, to me, a first class means people can trust that I will deliver excellence. From my 200 level, I made up my mind that I must graduate with a first class. I was also encouraged by lecturers who often said first-class graduates have an advantage when it comes to opportunities. But beyond that external motivation, it was personal. I wanted to prove to myself that I could commit to excellence and achieve it.

Many students struggle with consistency. What strategies or habits helped you sustain academic excellence?

Discipline is tough, but possible with the right environment. The people you surround yourself with matter a lot. My close circle of friends also graduated with first class and seeing them work hard pushed me to do the same. 

My strategy was simple: desire it, decide on it, and then discipline yourself. That meant being present in class, asking questions, submitting assignments on time, and studying consistently.

I believe lecturers give you only about 40 to 60 per cent of what you need; the rest is up to you. I studied daily, not always intensely, but I reviewed my notes every day. On weekends, I tested myself to recall what I’d learnt. This helped me avoid the stress of cramming before exams.

I also learnt to study lecturers’ patterns. Every lecturer has a style. By asking senior students and reviewing past questions, I identified trends. Paying attention to topics lecturers emphasised in class also gave me clues about likely exam questions.

How did you balance academics with social life, extracurriculars, and personal growth?

In my 100-level, I wasn’t very socially active. My life was basically class, church, and hostel. Looking back, I regret that, because university isn’t just academics, it’s also about building networks.

In my 300-level, I became more active. I joined a theatre group on campus, which was demanding; sometimes rehearsals lasted four to eight hours. As part of the executive team, I had even more responsibility. Balancing that with academics was tough, but scheduling helped. I outlined daily tasks and gave each a time slot. When I was at rehearsals, I focused fully on that. When it was time to study, I gave my all. That discipline helped me manage both.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced at Babcock?

Two stand out. First, issues with results. Twice, I got grades that didn’t reflect my performance. Thankfully, the system allowed me to meet the lecturers, and corrections were made, but at the time, I was really worried that my efforts might be wasted.

The second was in my final year. Writing my project was extremely demanding. It was tempting to neglect other courses, but I had to discipline myself. I often woke up as early as 4 a.m. to research and write while still keeping up with my coursework. It was exhausting, but structure and discipline helped me pull through.

What aspects of Mass Communication excited you the most?

I majored in Broadcasting. I loved scriptwriting, reporting, and news presentation. I also enjoyed the creative process of developing scripts and producing content.

Did you have lecturers, mentors, or colleagues who strongly influenced your journey?

Yes, definitely. Dr Ajibade, an Accounting lecturer, inspired me through chapel services. He often shared stories of students who graduated with first-class. One of his quotes became my mantra: “Human effort plus divine power equals success.”

Another was my project supervisor, Dr Akintayo Babafemi. I had heard many difficult stories about supervisors, so I was initially scared. But he was patient, intentional, and encouraging. With his guidance, I achieved a perfect GPA in my final semester.

Source: Punch Newspaper

The post Graduating with first class reward for discipline, consistency — Babcock graduate appeared first on Teen Trust News.

By Haruna Gimba Yaya, Gombe

Tell us a bit about yourself

My name is Aisha Ahmed Girei. I am 16 years old, a student of Pen Resource Academy Gombe and an indigene of Adamawa State, but living in Gombe. I attended Pen Resource Academy Gombe for my nursery, primary, as well as secondary school education.  

You scored 333 in your UTME. How were you able to achieve this feat despite the massive failure recorded this year?  

Actually, the school started to prepare us for the JAMB examination immediately after we entered SS3 in September 2024. Initially, I didn’t take it seriously because I thought that the exam was still very far away. It was around January or February this year that I became serious because I realised that the UTME was indeed very close. And from that time, I sat up and studied hard. I created a timetable and planned a routine for studying both at home and at school. Though I did not start early, I used the little time I had wisely and I think it was what made the difference.

Did you set a target point that you wanted to achieve?

Well, I didn’t particularly aim to score 333 points, but I had a very high target because the course I want to study is very competitive. And Gombe State University, where I applied, pegged 200 as its cut-off point, so my aim was to score at least 300 or 320 points to stand a chance.

Were you pressured by your father to study medicine?

Not actually; though my father is a medical doctor, he neither asked me nor put pressure on me to study medicine and surgery. I was just inspired by the way he is helping people with his profession. And from when I was a child, I developed an interest and wanted to also become a medical doctor and help people.

Aside from medicine, which other course do you think you can study?

I can study software engineering; it is another area I have interest in and I believe I can do very well.

What is your reading pattern like?

In my school, the SS3 students report to school by 7am and close by 5.30pm. When I get back home, I study for like two hours and sleep by 10pm. I wake up around 2am or 3am and study till dawn. I also study during any free time I find and in any environment that I know I can comprehend. So, basically, I study round the clock. But I mostly read during the night, from like 3am to 7am. 

Are you saying you shunned all forms of social life, like watching television and using smartphones?

Yes, I cut off totally from social media and also greatly minimised my television time, as well as other stuff that would consume time and distract me from studying.

What role did your parents play in your success?

My parents are my biggest inspiration, especially my dad, who always advises and encourages me, telling me that I could do it. My mum also helps by putting me through; she guides me and always ensures that I am consistent with my studies.

How do you feel that your efforts have paid off?

Alhamdulillah! I feel grateful that all my hard work, efforts and sacrifices of secluding myself from all social life and enjoyment were not in vain. I am very happy that all the efforts I have put into studying have finally paid off.  

Were you always ahead in your class, or were you just an average student?

I used to top the class but not all the time, though most of the time I was on top. Nevertheless, I never allowed that to deceive me. I have always tried to improve on my previous feats and aim for more success.

Apart from studying Medicine & Surgery, what are your other plans?

I want to venture into entrepreneurship, running small businesses like catering in order to be self-reliant. Though there are high demands for medical doctors, I believe that in this age, one should not rely too much on one source of income or white-collar job. Even though I know that studying medicine and surgery is very demanding, I still want to learn catering in my spare time.

How many hours did you read daily?

It depends on the day and my schedules, but on average I studied for about six hours daily, or more than that if I have a lot to cover. However, sometimes it was less if I am very tired. What mattered to me most was consistency and understanding what I was reading.

What do you do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my family, it helps me relax, especially after spending much time reading and I also like watching educational videos, it also helps me to learn new things and sometimes I just like lying down quietly to rest, it enables me to recharge.

What advice would you give to other students?

My advice to fellow students is to believe in themselves. They should stay focused and don’t wait until it is too late to start preparing for the examination. They should use their time wisely and ask questions when they don’t understand what they were taught or are being taught. Above all, they should put their trust in Allah and pray hard. They should also be consistent with reading, because a small effort done every day makes a difference.

The post UTME: How I Emerged As Gombe’s Top JAMB Scorer — Aisha Girei appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Olayode disclosed this during the combined convocation ceremony for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions of the university.

The event was attended by eminent personalities, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin who was represented by Aree Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Adegboyega Adegoke; the Chancellor of the institution, Dr Tunde Afolabi; the Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Kazeem Adesola Adeduntan and the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Adesola Ajayi.

Addressing the gathering, the best student said that no dream is too big to become a reality, and no background is too humble to be liberated by solid education.

Olayode recounted that he faced repeated setbacks in gaining admission to a higher institution and had to sit for the UTME five times, with each attempt full of promise, and each denial a heavy blow.

He added that despite the challenges, he earned 55 As and only 2 Bs throughout his university years.

He said: “I am, therefore, a living proof that no dream is too big to become a reality, and no background is too humble to be liberated by solid education.”

 “I feel proud to say that my name is Uthman Uthman Olayode, and I am deeply honoured to address you as the overall best graduating student of the 2023/2024 academic session of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University.”

“Despite excelling in secondary school, I faced repeated setbacks in gaining admission to a higher institution and had to sit for the UTME five times, with each attempt full of promise, and each denial a heavy blow. I watched classmates gain admission while I remained behind, wondering if my turn would ever come. But faith kept me going.”

” And when it was time, God showed me that delays are not denials. On my fifth attempt, I was awarded a scholarship to this esteemed institution to study Physics with Electronics, a course known for its rigour and tough demand.

“Reflecting on my journey, I am reminded that what seems like a delay to us is often the perfect timing in God’s divine plan. Despite the challenges, I persevered, earning 55 As and only 2 Bs throughout my university years. You will give me the privilege to declare that, remarkably, I achieved a perfect 5.0 GPA in six out of eight semesters, five of which were consecutive.

” Additionally, I was honoured to receive three prestigious scholarships: the Federal Government Scholarship Award (FSB) in both my 300 and 400 levels, MTN Foundation Scholarship, and Oyo State bursary for final year students.

“Beyond academics, I had the privilege of serving as the Ameer of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Abiola Ajimobi Technical University chapter, in my final year.

“Despite the numerous challenges and stress that came with leadership, including late-night meetings and travels, I was able to maintain an excellent academic record throughout my tenure. This experience has taught me that serving a higher purpose and sacrificing for a noble cause does not hinder one’s progress, but it rather propels it forward.”

SOURCE: The Guardian

The post I failed UTME five times, says best graduating student appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Nwosu, who graduated with a cumulative grade point average of 4.93 from the Department of Biochemistry, made this known in her valedictory speech at the 28th convocation ceremony of LASU.

LASU awarded diplomas, degrees, and certificates at the event, which took place on its main campus in Ojo.

Nwosu said that she had never heard of biochemistry until LASU offered her admission to the course.

 “In 2019, after graduating as the valedictorian of my secondary school, I faced a setback and had to rewrite UTME.”

“A valedictorian writing UTME again? It was a bitter pill to swallow. My dream was to study medicine and surgery at the University of Ibadan. I fell just two points below the cut-off mark. The news of my repeat spread like a wildfire in my secondary school. I thought I had failed in life,” she said.

Nwosu said that she equally applied for medicine and surgery at LASU but was offered biochemistry.

“This time, I made LASU my first choice and, again, aiming for medicine and surgery.

“However, I was offered biochemistry, a course I had never heard of.

“My heart broke the second time,” she said.

She said that she could not embrace the course in her first year.

She said that some of her lecturers and friends, however, encouraged her to put in her best.

Nwosu advised students to study hard and be confident.

She also advised her fellow graduates to believe in themselves regardless of their grades.

“You completed this phase. You are resilient, capable and prepared for the future. The world is waiting for your greatness and manifestation.

“To everyone listening, never be afraid of having big dreams, your dreams are the seeds of greatness.

“Additionally, surround yourself with friends with values and equal visions and ambitions,” she said.

 “The ultimate goal is to use your knowledge and skill to drive meaningful change wherever you find yourselves,” she told the graduating students.

SOURCE: NAN

The post From rejection to 4.93 CGPA: LASU’s best graduating student tells her story appeared first on Teen Trust News.

By Chidimma C. Okeke

I’m here at the University of Victoria, of course it’s interesting.

What does it mean to be part of the AUN Honour Society, and what qualifies you for that?

The qualification for it is just attaining the highest CGPA in the whole class.

I have had high CGP, I think the years is the cumulative average, so at the end, the person with the highest grade is the person who emerges as valedictorian.

When you came in as a freshman, did you have a dream or plan to emerge as a valedictorian?

Not really, because I came here as a transfer student, so I was just, honestly, trying to get through school. I didn’t want to stress myself; I just tried to get through school. But today I met at the University of Victoria.

What do you think you did that is different from what you think others are not doing?

I would say I just started believing in myself more, because I used to doubt myself very often. And since I came here, I built my confidence more and started believing in myself. As I was saying that the things I thought were unattainable were actually very doable once I set my mind to them.

Was it a place of lecturers in helping you to achieve the feat today?

Definitely, my faculty has helped me very well, especially my lecturers like Dr Malakey and Dr Haji; they’ve influenced me, they’ve pushed me and they also inspired me so much to do research and just studying.

What are those things within the four years that you think were major challenges for you while studying?

I’ve struggled a lot with self-confidence and believing in myself. It’s also known as impostor syndrome nowadays, so when you think you can’t achieve things, but in reality, you can. And also, things like challenges at home, and because I was also an off-campus student, so not being in the campus, like on campus in school was also a challenge for me, because having to struggle at home and then come in here every day, it was a challenge for me. But I was able to overcome all of that.

Why didn’t you choose to do that on campus?

It was because when I was transferring here, I left my old school because I was struggling with mental health, so I wanted to be close to home, which was the reason I even transferred to AUN.

What burden does this place on you as an individual?

I don’t think it has brought me any burden, because for the past few years of my life, I’ve always kind of used other people’s opinions to determine my value. So other people’s opinions on me, or their own expectations, I’m not going to let it limit me or put me in a box.

What’s your dream beyond here?

After coming here, I plan to pursue graduate studies in biotechnology, and I have recently been accepted into an Ivy League University in the US. So, I plan to continue there and become a biomedical scientist in the future.

You’ve said you’ve been transferred here for some reasons, and you’ve excelled here too. Are there certain structures or initiatives that this school has that you think helped you?

Yes, I would say the faculty-to-students’ ratio, for example, in school, is way better than it was in my last school. So being able to talk to faculty whenever you have a problem, and then being able to address it as quickly as possible, compared to my former school. And just for my faculty, they just want to see the best in you and the best professors I’ve ever met. They played a role in my success.

What academic challenges did you experience over here?

Well, here, I did experience a challenge in my senior research project, which I was supposed to complete in a year but actually took me two years to complete because of certain challenges with the lab infrastructure. It is not about here at AUN but in Nigeria in general. I had to send samples from the lab outside the country for analysis before I was able to get the results, and that took a long time and it delayed my project.

What was your most cherished moment in school?

I don’t think it’s any big moment. It’s usually the small moment when I’m just hanging out with the friends I’ve made here, just hanging out in the dorm and laughing and talking, not necessarily anything.

If you are to meet someone in their first year, what are those things that you think you would want to say to them that would be very helpful?

I would tell them to just relax and breathe, because sometimes there are external pressures, and you shouldn’t let them get to you, because they’ll affect you academically, mentally, physically, in so many ways. So, as much as you try to study, and try to get all the As, and all that, don’t let it define you. So, I also try to balance your social life.

In what extracurricular activities were you involved in school?

Well, I was here as part of the Honors Society, where I did two, like my first three semesters. I enjoyed tutoring students on organic chemistry, most especially, because it was my favorite course. And at the end of the semester, when the students come and tell me also, like, I got an A minor, I got an A plus, you just feel that sense of fulfillment.

And just like, you feel accomplished. And it’s highly rewarding. Also, at the Honors Society, I was the event coordinator and working towards advancing STEM education for African women, where we go to government secondary schools here in Yola, and just promote STEM education to young girls. Because, you know, lots of girls are told, like, this STEM field is a male-dominated field, so you don’t belong here. I am just telling them that they also have a place here and shouldn’t get discouraged.

Finally, what role do you think your parents played that helped in your feat today?

Oh, my parents played the biggest role because they did support me financially and emotionally.

I can tell you so many times before an exam, when my mom would even start screaming out around the house. Oh, my God, Amani has an exam tomorrow. We’re not going to see because of how anxious I would get.

But she would always calm me down and just, like, talk to me; tell me everything is going to be fine. They were just my biggest supporters.

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