In an interview with Akeem Alao, Eunice Oluwadamilola ADEGOKE, a graduate in English and Literary Studies from the University of Ilorin, shares the insights and reflections on how her dedication and perseverance led to academic excellence.
Could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Eunice Oluwadamilola ADEGOKE.
What’s your course of study?
I studied English and Literary Studies at the University of Ilorin.
Could you share with us the secret of your academic excellence?
The secret of my academic excellence is doing things at the right time; reading when I ought to and doing so intentionally, along with God’s grace.
Could you tell us about some of your most significant academic achievements during your studies and any challenges you faced while maintaining your first-class status?
The most significant milestone for me was in my 300 level when I had the best results. There were courses I didn’t particularly enjoy, which made it challenging to develop interest and understand them.
Describe a research project or major assignment you completed during your degree. What was your role, and how did you contribute to its success?
During my degree programme, I completed my final year project centered around Stylistics. It was an individual assignment, and I did all the work. The challenge was working under a supervisor who detests plagiarism; about 90% of my project was based on my head knowledge. The struggles I faced pushed me to become better in many areas. Additionally, I authored a short story titled “Show Me a Clip.”
How did you manage your time effectively to balance coursework, projects, and any extracurricular activities to achieve a first-class degree?
Time management becomes easy when one understands the importance of the tasks at hand. I held a position in the fellowship and attended fellowship four times a week. Despite the temptation to slack off, I found balance by prioritizing academics above all else.
Could you provide an example of a complex problem you encountered during your studies and how you approached solving it?
I can’t say there was a major complex problem I encountered, except for minor issues like time management that almost every student faces.
In what ways did your family support or influence your academic journey, and how did it impact your ability to maintain a first-class standing?
My family supported me in every way they knew how, including constant check-ups, financial support, encouragement, and prayers. They instilled in me the importance of doing my best to make them proud.
What is your post-graduation goal? How do you see your first-class academic background contributing to achieving this goal?
Graduating with a first-class might give one an edge, but not having it doesn’t negate one’s progress or achievements. Life often unfolds differently than expected. Ultimately, I focus on being diligent in whatever field I choose to pursue.
What is your advice to all undergraduates who aspire to achieve First-Class?
My advice to undergraduates is to get serious, understand why they are in school, avoid distractions, and ensure that they can be proud of whatever status they achieve.
What can you say about your secondary school?
I completed my secondary education at True-Vine College Oriokuta, which is a good school that nurtured my love for the English language.
Eunice’s journey is a testament to the power of diligence, time management, and unwavering support from loved ones. Her story serves as an inspiration for many aspiring students.
