Eunice Obidi: Overcoming Distractions to Graduate with First-Class Honors

Eunice Obidi overcame academic distractions through discipline,strategic study habits, and strong motivation, ultimately earning a first-class degree while balancing multiple responsibilities and leadership roles.

Distractions can significantly impact a student’s academic performance by reducing focus, hindering information retention, and making it difficult to complete tasks effectively. However, Eunice Obidi managed to navigate these challenges and graduated with first-class honors. In an interview, she shared insights into her journey, strategies, and aspirations.

Eunice Obidi is a content writer who helps aspiring authors publish their work by providing editing and proofreading services. From the outset of her academic journey, she was intentional about achieving a first-class degree and worked diligently toward that goal.

Obidi followed a disciplined approach to studying. She consistently reviewed course materials before attending lectures, ensuring she was well-prepared for class discussions. On some occasions, she conducted additional research on topics to expand her knowledge, which proved beneficial during tests and examinations. She also went beyond average expectations in assignments and projects, making an extra effort to submit high-quality work.

Her daily schedule was meticulously planned. She typically woke up between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. to freshen up before the hostel bathrooms became crowded. Mornings began with personal prayers, which she credited for providing mental clarity and motivation for the day.

To stay organized, she created a to-do list, which included attending lectures, volunteering at the studio, printing assignments, meeting friends, and preparing for impromptu tests. In addition to her studies, she worked remotely as a content writer and held leadership positions as an executive in her campus fellowship. She also volunteered as a news presenter for Unilag TV and Radio.

With such a packed schedule, she often ate outside instead of cooking and only returned to her hostel at night. After a long day, she would study until she was exhausted, then repeat the routine the next day.

One of the greatest challenges Obidi faced was distractions. As an introvert, she was not drawn to social events, but her love for reading novels and watching movies often diverted her attention from academics. To overcome this, she developed a system where she used these activities as rewards, indulging in them only after completing her examinations.

Another challenge was the lack of academic closure. Whenever she received a lower grade, such as a C, she found it difficult to understand what went wrong, as examination scripts were not returned to students. This lack of feedback made it hard for her to identify areas for improvement. However, she chose to remain focused and trust in her efforts rather than dwell on setbacks.

Obidi’s determination to achieve a first-class degree was deeply rooted in her upbringing. She was raised by parents who emphasized hard work and excellence. Additionally, her strong spiritual background reinforced her belief in diligence, as reflected in the biblical verse: “Seest thou a man diligent in his duties, he shall stand before kings…” (Proverbs 22:29).

When asked about the perception that Nigerian universities are producing more first-class graduates due to lenient grading, Obidi disagreed. She stated that, at least in the Department of Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, grades were awarded based on merit. She emphasized that students who performed well earned their marks fairly.

Obidi credited some of her lecturers for making a significant impact on her learning experience. Their practical approach to teaching helped her grasp concepts beyond theoretical knowledge, making it easier for her to retain and apply what she learned.

In her graduating set, 18 female students earned first-class honors, a record-breaking achievement. However, Obidi did not believe this suggested that female students were inherently better academically. Instead, she emphasized that both male and female students could excel if they put in the necessary effort and dedication.

With her first degree completed, Obidi plans to further her education while gaining industry experience. She is particularly passionate about research in media influence, broadcasting, filmmaking, and other forms of storytelling.

READ ALSO: 18 Female UNILAG First Class Graduate Share Success Secret

SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, BUSINESS DAY