Mr. Iyanuoluwa Loko Shines as Augustine University's 2024 Overall Best Graduating Student

Mr. Iyanuoluwa Loko Shines as Augustine University’s 2024 Overall Best Graduating Student.

In a remarkable display of academic excellence, Mr. Iyanuoluwa Loko from the Department of Computer Science emerged as the 2024 Overall Best Graduating Student of Augustine University with CGPA of 4.90 setting a new standard for achievement at the Institution.

His remarkable journey is an inspiration to all aspiring scholars and a testament to the power of perseverance and commitment to one’s goals.

Join us as we delve into the incredible achievements and extraordinary story of Mr. Iyanuoluwa Loko, a shining star in the academic world.

In his words:

“My journey through the university was an eye-opening one, and it made me a lot more knowledgeable about many things, especially as to how your decisions and actions will influence your path, as you now make more decisions by your own self. I tried my best to stay out of trouble, to be a jovial presence, and to assist and volunteer my help in any way needed. I am thankful that I was able to graduate as the valedictorian, and it means the world to me.

Several motivators motivated me to consistently perform at such a high level throughout my academic career at Augustine University. One of the most powerful motivators is that which comes from within. I strive to do my best in what I engage in, and not achieving those standards forces me to rethink and try harder. I also thank my parents, who encouraged me to set those high standards, as they were aware of my potential and pushed me to reach it. I also had some healthy competition in my class, and knowing that they were also very good pushed me to output my possible best.

There was a time in 200 level, where a lecturer, after having about two classes with us for the semester, left the school, so most of what we had to learn was by our own selves. What helped me, and the rest of my class, was studying the past questions of previous years to gain some insight, and to bolster what we had from the classes and lecture notes. There is also the general challenge inherent in academics, but that can be easily overcome by asking for clarification, or meeting classmates with more knowledge. A problem shared is truly a problem half-solved.

Beyond academic achievements, I engaged in extracurricular activities that contributed to my personal growth during my time at the university. I was a member of the choir, and that contributed in a big way to my self-confidence, and added to my musical knowledge. I was also a member of the drama crew, which a younger me would probably not have joined, but I am glad I did, as it further boosted my confidence, expression, and creative ability. It also improved my inter-personal relations with people. I was a lector, which builds public speaking skills, and a member of the Legion of Mary, which deepened my spiritual life and drew me closer to God.

There have been several memorable moments from my time at Augustine University, but I will pick working on my final year project as a standout moment. It was quite difficult going, for me, as I would get stuck on it, and not make enough of an effort to find a solution and soldier on. It made me miss a lot of deadlines, and led to an inevitable rush at the end of the exams to finish the project. There were also some difficulties as regards power, which made us resort to sharing laptops and huddling in places where there was power so that we could get them done. I am extremely happy and thankful I get an A in it, but there are some things I would do better if I had to do it again, and that would be less procrastination, more proactivity, and seeking help as regards any issues that could come up, as I was thinking I would perform a lot poorer, but it turned out well, in the end.

It is quite difficult to list one person as my most influential mentor or role model during my academic journey, but I will list Alinna Kingsley, Ogunbanwo Kehinde, Tolefe Emmanuel and Obla Paulinus as influences. They are remarkable, well-rounded, highly intelligent people, who have also graduated top of their classes. They showed me how to balance all facets of life, and to live an exemplary life, one to be proud of. I would also cite my parents as role models, as they are a class act to follow, as my dad showed me how to be a magnet for knowledge, and my mum never let me slip from set standards.

Graduating as the best student is a remarkable achievement. How do I balance academic excellence with a well-rounded life, including social and personal aspects?
That is an important question, and to balance all of these aspects, a safe mix of all of them must be present, such that one does not impede the other. Keeping your nose buried in the books for the entirety of school is probably going to hurt your social life, and being the life of the party at every party does a number on your grades. I do things that I like doing, but I prioritize the things I need to do, and when the necessities are taken care of, you can engage in your hobbies or side projects. Constructive ones, ideally. Virtue lies in the middle.

I intend on completing Youth Service, and God willing, get a Master’s degree. I’m thinking of going into another field of computing, maybe Computer Engineering, or maybe even outside computing. Anything could happen. After that, I would seek a job role in the tech space. My education in Augustine University has widened my horizons as to what is possible, what other problems can be solved, and equipped me with a solid background in Computer Science.

My advice to students who look up to me as a source of inspiration is to find what works for them, as per study methods. They should do research, and tweak what they already do to improve their results. Constant positive experimentation and improvement of their own selves will serve to make them better, and making an effort to relate with people better also helps in a big way. Balance all you do, as moderation is key, and most importantly, never stray far from God, as He can do everything.

I believe my achievements can positively impact your community or society as a whole because it will encourage others to aim for the stars and work towards being their best selves, because to be among, or beat the best, you should be at your best. I know some people who tell me that I have inspired them to do their best, and that is always an honour I will take pride in.

I would like to appreciate the graduates and the entire community for all they have done to make the environment conducive. It wasn’t always my plan to study here, but as fate would have it, I studied here and graduated from here, and I’m sure God has not brought any one of us here by accident. I encourage them to look forward to the future with hopeful eyes, and I pray for all of us, that God continues to keep us, grant us success, and always keep our paths in accordance with His will. Amen.

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