Akinyuwa Susan Busola, the Overall Best Graduating Student of Obafemi Awolowo University with a CGPA of 4.97, credited her success in Pharmacy to God’s grace, hard work, resilience, and a supportive network, inspiring others with her story of dedication and perseverance.
Akinyuwa Susan Busola, a graduate from the Faculty of Pharmacy at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), has emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student for the 2022/2023 academic session, achieving an impressive CGPA of 4.97.
In an interview with ACJOAU, Susan shared her academic journey, challenges, and experiences as an undergraduate at OAU.
Susan, who hails from Idanre in Ondo State, credited her success to God’s grace, hard work, discipline, and resilience. Reflecting on her achievement, she said, “I never saw it coming at first, but I started trusting God for the best, and He crowned my efforts.”
Susan received multiple awards, including:
1. OAU Stars Award for Overall Best Student in the Faculty of Pharmacy (2018/2019 & 2021/2022).
2. Overall Best Graduating Student, Faculty of Pharmacy, OAU.
3. Association of Lady Pharmacists Award for the Overall Best Lady Pharmacist.
Initially aspiring to study accounting, Susan’s father encouraged her to pursue pharmacy, a decision she now appreciates deeply. Speaking about her experience, she described OAU Pharmacy as rigorous but transformative, saying, “OAU Pharmacy is really broad. Beyond academics, it teaches discipline, honor, and focus—values that prepare you for life.”
Susan shared that she always prayed for guidance before studying and ensured she understood materials in detail. Despite her academic workload, she successfully ran a business she started in her second year, pausing only during exams to focus on her studies.
Like many students, Susan faced low moments during her studies. However, she credited her faith in God and support from loved ones for helping her navigate difficult times.
When informed of her recognition as the university’s Overall Best Graduating Student, Susan described the moment as surreal, saying, “It felt like a dream, but I’m grateful to God for surpassing my expectations.”
Susan encouraged students aspiring for academic excellence to rely on God, work diligently, and maintain a positive mindset. “You have all it takes to be successful,” she emphasized.
Among her most cherished undergraduate experiences were movie nights, picnics, and hangouts with friends after exams. She also acknowledged her friends for positively influencing her success, describing them as like-minded individuals who motivated one another.
Susan’s remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration, showcasing the rewards of dedication, faith, and perseverance.