“I Chose to Study International Relations After Hearing the Word ‘Diplomat’ — Oluwaseyi Oyebanji, First Class Graduate from Babcock University says

Oluwaseyi Oyebanji, a First Class graduate from Babcock University’s History and International Studies program, shares her passion for diplomacy, academic journey, and aspirations to become a cultural diplomat, while encouraging students to stay focused, leverage their strengths, and trust in God.

Oluwaseyi Oyebanji, a culture and travel enthusiast, graduated from Babcock University’s Department of History and International Studies in the 2023-2024 academic session with a First Class degree, achieving a 4.54 CGPA. In an interview, she shared insights into her academic journey, passion for diplomacy, and her aspirations.

Reflecting on her secondary education at Horizon Schools in Lusaka, Zambia, Oyebanji described how studying subjects like biology, physics, and accounting, despite being an arts student, helped unlock her academic potential. This diverse background prepared her for university, where she developed a passion for international relations.

Her interest in diplomacy began in junior secondary school when she first heard the term “diplomat” and explored the field. This experience, combined with her exposure to international education in Zambia, fueled her decision to study History and International Studies at Babcock University, a choice influenced by her parents. Although she initially received a scholarship to study in Malaysia, she embraced Babcock University, where her course was the closest option to her desired field.

Oyebanji emphasized that understanding history is essential to solving current global issues, noting that studying the past allows policymakers to make better strategic decisions. This connection between history and international relations became one of the most fascinating aspects of her education.

To achieve her academic success, she attributed her accomplishments to God’s grace, her parents’ support, and her personal drive. She shared strategies that helped her excel, such as setting academic goals, staying focused, and using unconventional learning methods, like watching YouTube videos to grasp complex concepts.

Her final-year project, titled “Nigeria-Brazil Relations 1960-2023,” explored the rich historical ties between the two nations, highlighting their collaborations in agriculture, trade, and culture. Despite existing partnerships, Oyebanji believes there is still untapped potential for stronger bilateral relations.

Fluent in French and holding a diploma in Spanish, Oyebanji acknowledged how language skills have enhanced her diplomatic ambitions. She continues to improve her language proficiency through conversations with locals and immersion in foreign media, understanding that strong communication is crucial in diplomacy.

Passionate about culture and travel, Oyebanji draws inspiration from books, films, and content creators like Jessica Nabongo, the first black woman to visit every country in the world. As an aspiring diplomat, she dreams of serving as a cultural attaché, believing cultural diplomacy can foster stronger international relationships.

Addressing Nigeria’s global image, Oyebanji believes that diplomacy can reshape negative perceptions by showcasing the nation’s diverse culture and achievements, as seen in Nollywood’s growing international influence.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Oyebanji engaged in extracurricular activities, including serving as a sanitation and Sabbath school teacher, and participating in the inaugural TedxBabcockU. She also held leadership roles, such as financial director of her department’s student association.

Her love for travel stems from her fascination with cultures, languages, and people. If given the opportunity, she would love to visit Morocco, France, Japan, the Philippines, and Brazil to explore their unique cultures and histories.

Offering advice to other students, Oyebanji emphasized the importance of having a positive mindset, recognizing academic strengths, and prioritizing rest. She also encouraged students to put God first, believing that with faith, they can achieve their goals.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, TRIBUNE