FUTA First-Class Graduate Omowunmi Fatoki Shares Secrets to Academic Excellence

Omowunmi Fatoki, a first-class Industrial Chemistry graduate from FUTA, attributes her academic success to discipline, perseverance, strategic studying, and strong support from family and mentors, as she now plans to pursue a PhD.

Omowunmi Fatoki, a 25-year-old first-class graduate of Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has shared the dedication, discipline, and mindset that helped her emerge as the best student in her department and the best female graduate in her faculty.

Fatoki gained admission in 2018, resumed in 2019, and graduated in 2024. Initially, she aspired to study Medicine or Pharmacy, but after three unsuccessful attempts and challenges with Biology, she redirected her focus to Industrial Chemistry, recognizing her strength in Chemistry and its broad career opportunities.

From the beginning, she aimed for a first-class degree. Her first-semester GPA was 4.45, slightly below the first-class threshold, but she remained determined. The biggest challenge came in her third year, when she recorded her lowest GPA of 4.36 due to a difficult general course. However, she persevered and improved in subsequent semesters.

Fatoki adopted a disciplined study approach, reviewing materials consistently from the start of each semester instead of cramming before exams. She avoided distractions, refrained from clubbing or unnecessary social activities, and surrounded herself with like-minded peers who added value to her academic journey.

Her lowest moment came in her 400-level first semester, when she expected a 5.0 GPA but received a ‘C’ in a course she was confident about. Despite appealing the grade and following up with her lecturer, the error was not corrected. Though disappointed, she moved forward with renewed determination.

Despite her rigorous academic schedule, she took on private tutoring jobs to support herself financially, actively participated in fellowship activities, and volunteered for community programs. She managed her time efficiently, ensuring she got six hours of sleep daily while keeping up with her responsibilities.

Fatoki credits her success to the unwavering support of her mother, siblings, and a mentor introduced by her uncle. The mentor helped her secure a female-focused scholarship. She also acknowledges her church and academic mentors for their encouragement and guidance.

She plans to further her education by applying for scholarships and pursuing a PhD. She sees her first-class degree as a stepping stone to greater academic and professional achievements.b

Fatoki encourages students to stay focused, identify their strengths, and remain committed to their academic goals. She advises them to manage time effectively, surround themselves with positive influences, and dedicate extra effort to challenging subjects.

Her inspiring journey is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and academic discipline.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, JAMB