‘Lost Parents While Schooling,’ Boy Who Wrote JAMB Four Times, Emerges FUTA Industrial Chemistry Best Graduating Student

‘Denied admission by UNILAG and UNIJOS,’ Adelanke Ayobami shares grass to grace secret of success in this no-holds-bared interview with Platforms Africa’s Ganiyu Amodu. Excerpts;

 

What kept you motivated throughout your studies?

After I was denied admission two times by the university of Lagos and once at University of Jos, before finally getting admitted into FUTA, I told myself right from the start that I was going to make sure I finish with a first-class and this goal kept me motivated. Also, my late parents were a constant source of inspiration. I wanted to honour their sacrifices by excelling in my studies.

What were some of the most difficult challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?

The most difficult challenge was losing my dad who was my sponsor, during my first year and then my mum in my third year. Losing both parents during such a critical phase could have derailed my education, but I leaned on my faith, resilience, and the support of my family and friends. I found strength in prayer, and learned to focus on transforming pain into purpose. Financial challenges were another hurdle, but I took on part-time jobs like tutoring and made every effort to maximize limited resources.

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Who or what has been the biggest influence on your academic success?

The biggest influence has been the incredible people around me—my siblings, uncles, aunties, and friends. Their belief in my potential and their encouragement pushed me to strive harder. My faith in God and my parents’ dreams for me were also powerful motivators. My mummy and sisters were always calling me Professor, I think that influenced me to always come out with flying colours every semester. Another thing that influenced my academic success is the internet. The internet is a great tool for academic success. I still wonder how our forefathers did it without the internet. YouTube and other online resources where of great help to me.

How did you balance academic life with other aspects of student life, such as socializing, extracurricular activities, and personal growth?

I knew that just bagging a first-class is not enough, to be truly outstanding, I need to add other impactful volunteer roles, and this kept pushing me to be involved in as many volunteer roles as I can handle. Balancing academics and other aspects of life required intentional planning. I began to be very conscious and intentional about how I spent my time, especially from my 300 level. I tried to maximise every time I had to do something important. I strongly believe that there is time for everything. I prioritized my tasks and set clear boundaries for study time, work, and social activities. Being involved in organizations like the Millennium Campus Network Class 23, StudySmart, SDGsACTFUTA, Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and the Redeemed Campus Fellowship allowed me to grow personally. I viewed these extracurricular activities as avenues for growth that complemented my academic pursuits.

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Now that you’ve graduated with such an outstanding result, what are your plans for the future?

I plan to pursue advanced studies in my field, specializing in areas where I can make a significant impact. I want to be a leading contributor in researches that advances innovations especially in the food and health sector. Additionally, I want to continue contributing to society through mentorship and initiatives that promote education and sustainable development.

What personal qualities do you think contributed to your academic success?

Key qualities include resilience, discipline, faith and consistency. I was also always willing to teach my peers and lower levels which really helped me retained the things I have learnt.

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What’s your CGPA, and what did you study?

I graduated with a CGPA of 4.86/5.00 in Industrial Chemistry, earning the distinction of being the best in both my department and faculty (School of Physical Sciences).

Why did you pursue a degree at FUTA?

After I left secondary school, I didn’t know that FUTA ever existed (I wish I knew!!!). After, I wrote JAMB the third time and was denied admission, I was indeed about giving up. I told myself that the fourth time was going to be the last. I went to God in prayers every day, and He directed me. I remember just picking up my phone and receiving a news notification about FUTA from google and that was how I knew FUTA. I made more research, and found out that it has been existing all this while and it is actually the best University of technology in Nigeria. It then dawned on me that all the while, I was forcing myself to study a course I was never really passionate about. It was really a transformative process for me.

Did you ever feel like giving up at any point due to your admission challenges?

Yes, writing JAMB four times and facing admission delays at the University of Lagos and University of Jos tested my resolve. But I thank God for coming through just when I was on the verge of giving up.

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