Omowunmi Fatoki, a 25-year-old first-class graduate of Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, shares the strategies, discipline, and mindset that propelled her to academic success.
When did you gain admission?
I gained admission in 2018 but resumed in the 2019 academic session and graduated this year 2024 from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, where I studied Industrial Chemistry.
What inspired you to pursue Industrial Chemistry?
Initially, I didn’t plan to study Industrial Chemistry. I applied for admission four times and sat the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination four times. For the first three attempts, I applied for Medicine and Pharmacy but wasn’t admitted because of my poor performance as a result of weakness in Biology.
On my fourth attempt, I decided to pursue a course that matched my strengths. I discovered that I was very good in Chemistry, even back then in secondary school. I also realised that Chemistry was versatile. It cuts across every other field like Pharmacy, Food Science, and Technology. So, I thought if I studied Chemistry, I could still follow my interests in Pharmacy through postgraduate studies. That was why I chose Industrial Chemistry.
Did you always aim for a first-class degree?
Yes, I did. From my first semester, I was determined to achieve a first class. My first semester GPA was 4.45, which was not in the first-class category. However, I wasn’t entirely satisfied but I was determined to finish with a first class.
Were there moments when you doubted your ability to graduate with a first class?
Not really, but there was a challenging period during my second semester in 300-level. I had a GPA of 4.36, which was my lowest. It was disappointing because I even got a ‘D’ in a three-unit course, something that had never happened before. The course was known for its difficulty, and many students struggled with it that year. Still, I picked myself up and worked harder, knowing I had to maintain my first class.
What made you have a GPA of 4.36?
It was due to a general poor performance in a general course. The grading that semester was harsh; many students got ‘C’s and ‘D’s. While it was frustrating, I accepted the outcome and focused on improving in subsequent semesters.
Can you describe your typical day as a student striving for academic excellence?
I didn’t wait until exams to start studying. From the start of the semester, I went through the materials taught in class and ensured I understood them. I studied consistently. So, by the time exams came, I was already prepared.
Were you involved in any extracurricular activities?
Yes, I was. I supported myself financially by giving private home lessons. I was also involved in fellowships and did some volunteering. Again, if there’s a meeting, I attend it, and if there’s any outreach, I go out for the outreach.
What was the most challenging course or subject for you, and how did you master it?
I was not naturally good in inorganic courses. So, I decided to give them extra attention. I would download videos, study notes, and practise rigorously.
Were there moments of failure along the way? If so, could you share one?
Yes, during my 400-level, first semester, I was expecting a 5.0 GPA because I knew how much effort I had put in. After writing my exams, I usually had a sense of what grades I would get, but when the results came out, I saw ‘C’ in a course that I was confident I should have an ‘A’ in.
The lecturer in charge was reached out to, and he confirmed that I should have an ‘A’ and advised me to write a letter to the department, which I did. I followed up by visiting his office, and he assured me that he had sent the corrected result to the department. However, when I returned to the department, the result was still unchanged. Eventually, I let it go, but it was disappointing.
What did you graduate with?
I graduated with a CGPA of 4.74 as the best student in my department. Interestingly, I didn’t start as the best, I was initially ranked fifth. However, I worked hard and became the best in my department and the best female in my faculty.
Congratulations on that achievement! Did you ever feel like giving up at any point?
Not at all! I knew where I was coming from, and I had a clear vision of where I wanted to be. Giving up on emerging the best was never an option for me.
What sacrifices did you make to achieve this success?
I avoided distractions; I didn’t keep close friends or participate in unnecessary activities. For example, I don’t attend parties or go clubbing. I only make friends with people who add value to my life and goals.
Who were your biggest supporters throughout this journey, and how did they impact your success?
My mum and siblings were incredibly supportive. I also had help from a lecturer who mentored me during my 200 level. My uncle, who was also a lecturer at FUTA but had travelled abroad, introduced me to this lecturer.
The lecturer was instrumental in helping me secure a female-focused scholarship. Though it was a one-time payment, it came at a critical time and made a big difference. He also reviewed my essays and was always there when I needed advice or financial support. Additionally, my church’s youth section was very supportive.
Did you face any discouragement from people who doubted your choice of Industrial Chemistry?
No, I didn’t experience discouragement. Instead, people often told me that Chemistry was a lucrative and promising course, especially abroad. It’s a field with many opportunities. So, the feedback was generally positive.
How did you balance academics with other aspects of your life?
I believe there’s a time for everything. For instance, I taught home lessons three days a week—Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, without letting it affect my academics. I also made sure I allocated time for cooking, reading, and sleeping.
Despite my busy schedule, I ensured I got six hours of sleep daily. I also utilised breaks between classes to study or prepare for upcoming lessons. If I had a two-hour gap, I would spend that time reading in the classroom or the library.
What hobbies or activities did you engage in outside of academics?
I enjoyed cooking and could prepare meals multiple times a day without it affecting my studies. I also attended church regularly.
What study techniques or habits worked best for you?
I never had a fixed time to study; I studied anytime I felt like doing so. Whether it was in the morning or night, I never waited for a perfect time. Once I started receiving lectures, I gathered my materials and began to read. I also reviewed my notes consistently.
Do you have any unconventional methods or secrets for excelling in your studies?
Yes, I created my notes. After attending lectures, I read through the material and summarised it in my own words. Then, I went online or used YouTube to search for additional resources or explanations if I needed clarification. Once I compiled my notes, I focused on reading and revising them. I managed to read my notes back-to-back at least 10 times before exams. That was one of my secrets to success.
You mentioned your mum earlier. What about your dad?
I lost my dad 20 years ago when I was just five years old.
How have you coped without having a father and with only your mum supporting you and your siblings?
I want to give a lot of credit to my mum. She has been a wonderful and strong woman, raising four children on her own. It hasn’t been easy for her, but she has done an amazing job.
What does your mum do for a living?
She’s an auxiliary nurse, and she’s also a trader.
What position are you in the family?
I’m the second child.
Do you think our educational system in Nigeria supports academic excellence enough?
To some extent, the Nigerian educational system supports academic excellence, but there are significant challenges that hinder its full potential. While the system emphasises theoretical knowledge and provides a foundational framework for learning, it often falls short in areas that are critical for holistic academic and professional development.
One major issue is the lack of adequate infrastructure and resources. Many schools and universities lack proper facilities such as well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and technology, which are essential for hands-on learning and innovation. Without these tools, students are often limited to rote memorisation rather than critical thinking and practical application of their knowledge.
Another challenge is the curriculum, which is often outdated and does not always align with current global trends or industry demands. This creates a gap between what students learn and what is required in the real world. For students to truly excel, the curriculum must be dynamic, incorporating modern advancements and skill-building opportunities relevant to their fields of study.
What are your immediate plans now that you’ve graduated with a first-class degree?
My immediate plan is to start applying for scholarships and to schools. I want to further my education, possibly a PhD, or a Master’s degree if that’s the available option. Right now, I’m focused on gathering all the necessary documents for my applications.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see myself completing my PhD programme. My first-class degree is a stepping stone; it opens doors to opportunities like scholarships and academic recognition. This achievement has given me the confidence to aim higher.
SOURCE: PUNCH
