From Homelessness to Academic Excellence: Mary Otunba Bags First Class in Economics

Mary Otunba overcame homelessness and financial hardship to graduate with a first-class degree in Economics, become a chartered accountant, and earn a fully funded MBA scholarship to Indiana University, showcasing resilience and determination.

Mary Otunba, a determined Nigerian woman, has defied the odds to achieve academic excellence despite facing homelessness and financial struggles. She graduated with a first-class degree in Economics (4.73 CGPA) from Caleb University, Nigeria, and has now secured a fully funded scholarship to pursue an MBA at Indiana University – Kelley School of Business, USA.

Her journey began in 2013 at Yaba College of Technology, where she earned a distinction in Accountancy. After completing her diploma, she secured an internship that fueled her ambition to become a chartered accountant. Encouraged by her peers, she took the Accounting Technician Scheme (ATS) exams, passed all four papers, and was inducted in 2016 while continuing her professional certification with ICAN.

Mary’s challenges intensified when she lost her father, leaving her without financial support. Undeterred, she enrolled in Caleb University’s Distance Learning Program, even though she had no means to pay her tuition. To survive, she lived in an uncompleted building for months while working and studying, relying on the support of kind friends who helped her with food and clothing.

Despite financial struggles and the pressures of balancing work and academics, Mary remained focused. In 2019, she became a chartered accountant while still an undergraduate and later graduated as the best student in her department, earning a perfect 5.00 GPA in her final semester. Her resilience and commitment to excellence set her apart.

Her hard work has now earned her a prestigious Forté Fellowship and a fully funded MBA scholarship to Indiana University. As she embarks on this new journey, Mary remains committed to personal and professional growth, proving that perseverance and determination can turn even the most difficult circumstances into success.