Nigerian Man Overcomes Four Years of Rejections to Secure Three Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in the U.S.

After four years of rejections, Nigerian graduate Kehinde Kolapo secured three fully funded PhD scholarships in the U.S., choosing to study Entomology at Penn State University, thanks to his perseverance, mentorship, and continuous self-improvement.

After facing four years of continuous rejections, Nigerian scholar Kehinde Kolapo has achieved an extraordinary academic milestone by securing three fully funded PhD scholarships in the United States, despite not having a master’s degree. His resilience and determination helped him turn setbacks into learning opportunities, ultimately strengthening his profile for graduate school admission.

Kehinde, a graduate of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) with a degree in Pure and Applied Biology, began applying for international graduate programs in 2020. Despite numerous unsuccessful attempts, he remained committed to his goal, using each rejection as motivation to refine his applications and improve his academic and research credentials.

His persistence paid off during the 2024 fall application cycle when he received PhD offers from the University of Texas at Arlington, Penn State University, and the University of Vermont. He ultimately chose to pursue a PhD in Entomology at Penn State University, where he will conduct research on insects and their impact on humans and the environment.

Kehinde credits his success to both perseverance and the invaluable support of friends and mentors. Olamide Adigun introduced him to graduate school applications and provided a CV template, while Samuel Olumide played a key role in reviewing his statements. His mentors, Dr. Titilayo Falade from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and Dr. Nutifafa Doumon, also guided him academically and provided motivation during challenging times.

Reflecting on his journey, Kehinde emphasized the importance of self-belief and mentorship, stating that success is not just about applying to prestigious schools but about recognizing one’s value and presenting it effectively. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring scholars, proving that persistence and the right support system can turn challenges into remarkable achievements.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SCHOLARSHIP PARK