In this interview, David Ajayi, the first overall best graduating student from the Civil Engineering Department of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, shares the journey behind his remarkable academic achievement with Bankole Taiwo Tell us about yourself… I am Ajayi Bamidele, 24 years old, a First-Class graduate of the Olabisi Onabanjo University. I was the overall best graduating student, Class of 2025. During my undergraduate days, I secured eight scholarships and broke the faculty record, attaining the highest-ever Cumulative Grade Point Average in the Faculty of Engineering. I began my academic journey at Children’s Knowledge School. I was initially a slow learner, but with the dedication of my teachers, who provided extra lessons and support, I caught up in Primary Five and steadily improved. I attended Iganmode Grammar School, Ota, Ogun State, where my resilience was tested. Despite the difficulties, I persevered, developed strong leadership skills, and eventually became Head Boy. I left Iganmode Grammar School in 2018 and was admitted into Olabisi Onabanjo University in 2020. How does it feel to be the first overall best graduating student from the Civil Engineering Department of Olabisi Onabanjo University? To emerge as the overall best graduating student among 5,808 graduates and be the first from the Civil Engineering Department is something I do not take lightly. It is both an honour and a responsibility. I am excited that this achievement puts my department and faculty on the map. Beyond that, I am grateful for the journey, the lessons, and the people who supported me along the way. It reassures me that excellence is possible regardless of one’s background, and I hope this inspires other students in Civil Engineering and beyond to aim higher and believe they can achieve extraordinary results. Have you always set out for this achievement from your first day in OOU? At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO Tell us about yourself… I am Ajayi Bamidele, 24 years old, a First-Class graduate of the Olabisi Onabanjo University. I was the overall best graduating student, Class of 2025. During my undergraduate days, I secured eight scholarships and broke the faculty record, attaining the highest-ever Cumulative Grade Point Average in the Faculty of Engineering. I began my academic journey at Children’s Knowledge School. I was initially a slow learner, but with the dedication of my teachers, who provided extra lessons and support, I caught up in Primary Five and steadily improved. I attended Iganmode Grammar School, Ota, Ogun State, where my resilience was tested. Despite the difficulties, I persevered, developed strong leadership skills, and eventually became Head Boy. I left Iganmode Grammar School in 2018 and was admitted into Olabisi Onabanjo University in 2020. How does it feel to be the first overall best graduating student from the Civil Engineering Department of Olabisi Onabanjo University? To emerge as the overall best graduating student among 5,808 graduates and be the first from the Civil Engineering Department is something I do not take lightly. It is both an honour and a responsibility. I am excited that this achievement puts my department and faculty on the map. Beyond that, I am grateful for the journey, the lessons, and the people who supported me along the way. It reassures me that excellence is possible regardless of one’s background, and I hope this inspires other students in Civil Engineering and beyond to aim higher and believe they can achieve extraordinary results. Have you always set out for this achievement from your first day in OOU? At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO I am Ajayi Bamidele, 24 years old, a First-Class graduate of the Olabisi Onabanjo University. I was the overall best graduating student, Class of 2025. During my undergraduate days, I secured eight scholarships and broke the faculty record, attaining the highest-ever Cumulative Grade Point Average in the Faculty of Engineering. I began my academic journey at Children’s Knowledge School. I was initially a slow learner, but with the dedication of my teachers, who provided extra lessons and support, I caught up in Primary Five and steadily improved. I attended Iganmode Grammar School, Ota, Ogun State, where my resilience was tested. Despite the difficulties, I persevered, developed strong leadership skills, and eventually became Head Boy. I left Iganmode Grammar School in 2018 and was admitted into Olabisi Onabanjo University in 2020. How does it feel to be the first overall best graduating student from the Civil Engineering Department of Olabisi Onabanjo University? To emerge as the overall best graduating student among 5,808 graduates and be the first from the Civil Engineering Department is something I do not take lightly. It is both an honour and a responsibility. I am excited that this achievement puts my department and faculty on the map. Beyond that, I am grateful for the journey, the lessons, and the people who supported me along the way. It reassures me that excellence is possible regardless of one’s background, and I hope this inspires other students in Civil Engineering and beyond to aim higher and believe they can achieve extraordinary results. Have you always set out for this achievement from your first day in OOU? At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO How does it feel to be the first overall best graduating student from the Civil Engineering Department of Olabisi Onabanjo University? To emerge as the overall best graduating student among 5,808 graduates and be the first from the Civil Engineering Department is something I do not take lightly. It is both an honour and a responsibility. I am excited that this achievement puts my department and faculty on the map. Beyond that, I am grateful for the journey, the lessons, and the people who supported me along the way. It reassures me that excellence is possible regardless of one’s background, and I hope this inspires other students in Civil Engineering and beyond to aim higher and believe they can achieve extraordinary results. Have you always set out for this achievement from your first day in OOU? At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO To emerge as the overall best graduating student among 5,808 graduates and be the first from the Civil Engineering Department is something I do not take lightly. It is both an honour and a responsibility. I am excited that this achievement puts my department and faculty on the map. Beyond that, I am grateful for the journey, the lessons, and the people who supported me along the way. It reassures me that excellence is possible regardless of one’s background, and I hope this inspires other students in Civil Engineering and beyond to aim higher and believe they can achieve extraordinary results. Have you always set out for this achievement from your first day in OOU? At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO Have you always set out for this achievement from your first day in OOU? At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO At the beginning of my undergraduate journey, my goal was just to avoid having a carryover. I didn’t want to fail any course. At that point, I did not think about becoming the overall best student. However, I took my studies very seriously from day one. I read consistently, prepared thoroughly, and gave my best. When the results of my first semester were released, and I attained a CGPA of 4.90, I was honestly surprised. It was at that moment that I realised that extraordinary results were possible. After that first semester, I made a conscious decision. I felt that if I could reach 4.90, then I could aim for a 5.0 GPA every semester and sustain it. That was when the bigger goal was formed. From then on, it became about maintaining the standard I had set and finishing what I started without dropping. Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO Tell us the principles you adhered to to achieve this feat. The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO The major route I followed was first discovering what truly worked for me and sticking to it strictly. I understood early that success is personal. What works for one student may not work for another. So I studied myself and built a system around my strengths. For instance, I discovered that I was most productive at night. So throughout my time in school, especially in the weeks leading to examinations, I consistently read from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily. That became my peak productivity period. Beyond that, I created a personal timetable and followed it with discipline. I didn’t wait for external pressure before preparing. I revised regularly, broke down complex topics into simpler parts, and focused on deep understanding rather than surface reading. Most importantly, I put God first in everything. My journey was not built on hard work alone but also on faith, prayer, and divine guidance. That balance of structured discipline and spiritual grounding was key to achieving this feat. What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO What sacrifices did you make? To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO To achieve this level of excellence, I had to sacrifice comfort and convenience. There were many nights when others were resting or socialising, and I was studying. I gave up excessive outings, unnecessary distractions, and sometimes even sleep, especially during critical academic periods. I also had to sacrifice immediate gratification. While others focused only on the present, I constantly thought about the long-term goal. That meant choosing discipline over pleasure repeatedly. Emotionally, there were moments of pressure and self-doubt, but I stayed committed to the bigger vision. However, I do not see these sacrifices as losses. They were investments, and today, the results make every sacrifice worthwhile. How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO How did you handle distractions from phones, social media and your peers? To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO To handle social media, especially close to exams, I take strict action. About three weeks before exams, I delete all social media apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, leaving only WhatsApp. I actually have two WhatsApp accounts: one general and one private line for departmental and faculty groups where I get important updates. This way, I stay informed without being pulled into distractions. As for friends, I’ve always been intentional about whom I spend my time with. I set clear boundaries from the start. I surrounded myself with people of value and those who add to my growth rather than diminish my focus or energy. Being intentional about both my social media use and friendships helped me maintain the discipline needed to excel academically. What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO What were your challenging times during your years of study? Related News Educationist advocates curriculum combining academics, character UDUS VC inducts 6,505 students, counsels on academic excellence Dufil deepens social impact with Hero Awards My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO My most challenging time was my final semester. I had a lot on my plate, especially with my project, as my topics were changed three times. In addition, I was under immense pressure to maintain my grades. Seeing my CGPA drop slightly from 4.93 to 4.89 was very discouraging; I felt exhausted and emotionally drained. But by God’s grace, even with 4.89, I still emerged as the overall best graduating student, which was a huge relief and a testament to perseverance. Another challenging period was in the 200 level when I struggled financially. I had to find ways to support my studies. I began by applying for scholarships. That period was tough, but it motivated me to work harder. Through persistence and faith, I secured eight undergraduate scholarships, including the MTN Scholarship, Federal Government Scholarship, ISEF Scholarship and BET9JA Foundation Scholarship, which helped sustain me through my academic journey. Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO Were there times you almost gave up on the goal of being the overall best of your set? Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO Honestly, I wasn’t aiming to be the overall best from day one. My focus was always on setting a high standard for myself, aiming for a 5.0 GPA each semester. I admired those who had become overall best before me, and I hoped that one day I might achieve it too. The moment I almost gave up was in my final semester. When I saw my results, I felt discouraged and thought it wasn’t possible for me. I had put in so much effort, yet it seemed it wouldn’t be enough. But by God’s grace, the outcome turned out in my favour, and I ended up achieving it. So that final semester was really the only moment I struggled with doubt. What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO What kept you going? What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO What kept me going was a burning desire to prove something to myself. I had faced failure before; I wrote the WAEC three times before I passed. My first JAMB score was 199. I sat for it again and scored 257 to gain admission, but I carried with me a determination to change my narrative and show myself that I could achieve something great. That drive to overcome past setbacks and reach my full potential was the fire that fuelled every effort I made. Also, my mother has been my greatest supporter and cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and believing in me even when I doubted myself. That combination of personal determination and unwavering support kept me focused and motivated throughout my journey. I would say that my mother has been the biggest contributor to my academic journey. My father passed away, and my mum took on everything by herself, ensuring that I never lacked anything I needed to succeed. Even before I started receiving scholarships, she supported me fully — financially, emotionally and spiritually. Her sacrifices, guidance and unwavering belief in me played a huge role in where I am today. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve these milestones without her. She is truly the backbone of my success. Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO Tell us about a Facebook video where you talked about the influence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO It dates back to when I stepped into the Redemption City as a student in 2021 to attend the Young Ministers Retreat programme convened by Pastor Daniel Olawande. During the opening session, Pastor E.A. Adeboye ministered and said something that really stuck with me. He declared that any student present would see their CGPA rise. I screamed to claim it. At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO At that time, I wasn’t confident about my exams. They were tough, and I was already worried about my grades. But by God’s grace, in my 100-level second semester, I ended up with a 5.0 GPA, scoring mostly above 70 in my courses. That moment confirmed to me the power of prayer and faith, and it became a turning point in my academic journey. What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO What’s next? My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO My next focus is to fulfil my purpose and walk fully in God’s will for my life. I want to keep growing, learning and improving myself, while also making a meaningful impact on others by mentoring students, connecting them to scholarships and empowering them to achieve excellence. One of the ways I’m doing this is through the Newton Scholarship Nexus, which I founded to help students access scholarship opportunities and resources. Everything I do is guided by faith and a commitment to living a purposeful life. What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO My advice to students is to keep dreaming and working towards their goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve if you remain focused and persistent. Your dreams are valid, and every effort counts. I’m rooting for every student to believe in themselves and pursue excellence relentlessly. KOLE TAIWO KOLE TAIWO
I sat for WAEC thrice, battled self-doubt — OOU best graduating student
