Miss Rufai Azeezat Dolamu, an Ijede indigene who emerged as the best graduating student from Ikorodu Division, at the 26th Convocation of the Lagos State University, Ojo, has been celebrated by residents and groups in the division.
She graduated from the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, with 4.72 CGPA to emerge as the best in the Division.
Dolamu, who is the President of Ijede Students’ Union (ISU), has been engaging in community development activities through students’ unionism.
This direct interaction conducted by Kunle Adelabu, Publisher/Reporter – in – Chief, THE IMPACT newspaper, is part of our coverage of the laudable feats achieved by students from Ikorodu Division who just graduated from LASU, especially those that bagged First Class honours.
As a foremost news medium in the Division, we are not just celebrating them, but also using them as point of reference to other students from the division that are still studying, to inspire them emulate and learn from the first class graduates. To achieve this, we want them to share their experiences with us.
In this interview, Dolamu spoke about what it takes to top her department, factors that aided her feat, and also offered suggestions to undergraduates and other young ones aiming attain higher education, on how to achieve academic excellence among others. Excerpts:
THE IMPACT: What is it like graduating with First Class honour among your peers, especially from LASU known for its high academic standard and discipline?
Miss Dolamu: Graduating with First Class honors from LASU, a renowned institution known for its high academic standards and discipline, is an incredible achievement. It was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication and countless hours of studying. Standing among my peers, I felt a sense of pride and fulfillment, knowing that my efforts had paid off. It was a testament to my abilities and the support I received from my professors, Lecturers, friends and family throughout my academic journey.
THE IMPACT: How did you achieve this feat, and what are the contributory factors?
Miss Dolamu: Several factors contributed to my achievement of graduating with First Class honors from LASU. First and foremost, it was my unwavering commitment to academic excellence. I maintained a disciplined study routine, dedicating long hours to mastering the course material.
Another crucial factor was the support I received from my lecturers. Their expertise, guidance, and encouragement played a significant role in shaping my understanding of the subjects and pushing me to reach my full potential.
Additionally, the competitive and intellectually stimulating environment at LASU, fostered a culture of academic rigor. Interacting with motivated peers who shared similar aspirations pushed me to strive for excellence and constantly raise the bar for myself. The power of prayer in this also cannot be undermined.
Lastly, maintaining a healthy work-life balance was essential. Taking breaks, engaging in physical activities, and nurturing my social connections helped me stay motivated, focused, and mentally sharp throughout my academic journey.
THE IMPACT – Looking back to when you first gained admission into LASU, till the day you wrote your final examinations, did you ever feel that attaining First Class was impossible? At what point and why (if any)?
Miss Dolamu: No, I never felt that attaining First Class was impossible throughout my journey at LASU. From the moment I gained admission, I set high expectations for myself and maintained a strong academic performance from the start. I believed in my abilities and consistently worked hard to achieve my goals.
THE IMPACT: Did you benefit from any bursary or scholarship award (s) when you were undergraduate and how did that encourage you and what is your view about such intervention(s)?
Miss Dolamu: I benefited from several bursary and scholarship awards during my undergraduate years. The awards I received were:
Lagos State Bursary Awards
Ijede Developmental Foundation Scholarship Awards
Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative LTD/GTE Scholarship Award
Senator Tokunbo Abiru (TACT) Bursary
These interventions were instrumental in encouraging and supporting my academic pursuits. The financial assistance provided by these bursaries and scholarships relieved the burden of educational expenses, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It motivated me to strive for excellence and gave me a sense of recognition for my hard work. I am immensely grateful for such interventions as they played a significant role in my academic success.
THE IMPACT: What is your message to other undergraduates and younger ones aiming at higher education, in terms of achieving academic excellence?
Miss Dolamu: My message to other undergraduates and younger ones aiming at higher education is to strive for academic excellence, while also embracing a well-rounded approach to education. Balancing academic rigor with extra-curricular activities is crucial. Cultivate a disciplined study routine, seek support from mentors, friends, and prioritize time management. Engage in diverse experiences, such as research, internships, and community involvement, to develop critical skills. Remember, academic success is not solely measured by grades, but by holistic growth and personal development.
