20-Year-Old Earns First Class Degree from Redeemer’s University, Overcoming JAMB Challenges

Oluwateniola Faderera Adeniyi, a 20-year-old who overcame setbacks and personal loss, graduated with a first-class degree in English and Literature from Redeemer’s University, excelling in both academics and sports, and aspires to promote African literature globally as a teacher, writer, and sports journalist.

Oluwateniola Faderera Adeniyi, also known as “Teni” or “makanaki,” has graduated from Redeemer’s University, Ede, as the top student in English and Literature, overcoming both personal and academic challenges. Alongside her academic achievements, she excelled in sports, earning numerous awards and recognition. Teni aspires to make an impact as a teacher, writer, and sports journalist, with a focus on promoting African literature on a global scale.

Known for her love of reading, the 20-year-old first-class graduate shared with Legit.ng details about her academic journey and family values. Standing 5’3″, she credits her parents for instilling in her a strong work ethic and resilience. She was named the best student in her department with a 4.62 CGPA, making her one of the top graduates in English and Literature.

Raised in a family that values discipline and hard work, Adeniyi explained that her parents never accepted excuses. This upbringing, along with a desire to excel for future students as a lecturer, motivated her to push beyond any challenges. She stated, “Knowing my parents’ standards, I knew I couldn’t settle for mediocrity.”

Despite being initially denied admission by JAMB in 2019, Adeniyi found her calling in English. Her journey was marked by hardship, including losing her younger sister to leukemia during her 300-level exams. This loss deeply impacted her, but with support from friends and family, she found the strength to continue. She recalled, “In my 300-level second semester, I learned about my sister’s passing during exams. I couldn’t perform my best in one course, but I kept going with the support of loved ones.”

Balancing her studies with a passion for sports, Adeniyi maintained a routine of playing table tennis as a way to unwind after study sessions. She emphasized the importance of balancing academics with physical activities and fellowship with others to stay motivated.

Her hard work earned her scholarships, respect from peers and lecturers, and led to her election as Vice-President of her department’s student association. She expressed gratitude for these achievements, saying, “My academic excellence opened so many doors. I received a scholarship, respect from faculty and students, and numerous opportunities to represent my department.”

Looking forward, Adeniyi dreams of becoming a renowned teacher and writer, promoting African literature globally. She is also passionate about sports journalism and hopes to master multiple languages. Her advice to others is to pursue excellence for personal fulfillment, saying, “Let your own passion motivate you. Academic success isn’t everything, but it opens doors. Above all, find joy and love in what you do.”

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEGIT NG