Multiple Rejections Led Me to Switch from Medicine to Food Science – First-Class FUNAAB Graduate

Babawande Elizabeth, a first-class graduate from FUNAAB, shared how repeated rejections while pursuing Medicine led her to discover her passion for Food Science, where she eventually excelled academically, emphasizing resilience and perseverance in overcoming setbacks.

Babawande Elizabeth, a first-class graduate of Food Science and Technology from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), shared her inspiring story of perseverance and passion after facing repeated rejections while pursuing her initial dream of studying Medicine.

In an interview with Temitope Adetunji, Elizabeth detailed her journey, starting as the youngest of five children raised in Mushin, Lagos. After excelling in her secondary school GCE exams in 2009, she faced numerous setbacks when she failed to meet the cut-off marks for Medicine and Surgery despite multiple attempts. Reluctant to consider polytechnic education, Elizabeth initially resisted, but eventually enrolled in Pharmaceutical Technology at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta in 2012.

While initially hesitant about attending a polytechnic, Elizabeth excelled in her studies, graduating with distinction as the top student in her department. She pursued Direct Entry into Anatomy and Physiology at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) but was again met with rejection due to a lack of available slots for her state of origin. Disheartened, she contemplated giving up but received support from her family and friends to continue her academic pursuit.

During her time at home, she undertook training in cakes, pastries, and food handling, which fueled her passion for the food industry. This newfound interest led her to switch from Pharmaceutical Technology to Food Science and Technology at FUNAAB, where she was admitted in the 2018/2019 academic session.

Despite challenges adjusting to the course as a direct-entry student, Elizabeth excelled academically, eventually graduating with a CGPA of 4.56 as the second-best student in her department. Her leadership as the campus fellowship president and active involvement in her local church demonstrated her ability to balance academics with extracurricular commitments.

Reflecting on her journey, Elizabeth expressed gratitude for discovering her calling in Food Science, realizing that one can contribute meaningfully to society in any field. She hopes to further her education in food processing and safety while contributing to research and development in the food industry to enhance food security and sustainability.

Elizabeth’s message to others facing setbacks is clear: remain determined, resilient, and patient, trusting that challenges are stepping stones to success.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH