Aduragbemi Adefi, a first-class Microbiology graduate from First Technical University, overcame financial challenges through a scholarship, driven by her desire to honor her father’s sacrifices, and now aspires to advance her career in Public Health to address global health challenges.
At the age of 24, Aduragbemi Adefi earned a first-class degree in Microbiology from the First Technical University, Ibadan. Overcoming financial challenges through a scholarship, she shared her journey, study strategies, and aspirations with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI, aiming to inspire others.
Aduragbemi gained admission in 2019 to study at the First Technical University, also known as Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, in Ibadan.
Initially, Microbiology wasn’t her first choice. She had always been interested in health-related courses, but the scholarship she secured offered Microbiology as the only option within the faculty. Given her family’s financial constraints, she saw this as an opportunity to further her education. She put in her best effort and credits God for crowning her efforts, enabling her to achieve her goal of graduating with a first-class degree.
After completing secondary school, Aduragbemi worked for two years and attempted the JAMB exam twice. She sat for post-UTME exams at the University of Ibadan (UI) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) but did not meet the cut-off marks for Medicine. Although she gained admission to study Veterinary Medicine at UI, she chose not to pursue it. A missed post-UTME at LAUTECH further added to her frustration.
At this point, financial struggles and academic setbacks had nearly led her to give up. Her father, sensing her discouragement, discovered a scholarship opportunity and facilitated her application. She passed the scholarship exam, got shortlisted, and gained admission on full scholarship.
The most difficult courses for Aduragbemi were Principles of Parasitology and Advanced Food Microbiology. The bulky syllabus of Advanced Food Microbiology was overwhelming, so she relied on past questions and mid-semester examination materials to prepare. For Principles of Parasitology, the lack of notes and reliance on presentations and assignments made preparation tough. Despite her fears, she prayed and prepared thoroughly, earning an A in both courses.
Aduragbemi had the ability to study and assimilate information anywhere, as long as she stayed focused. She studied with friends, who served as a strong support system by sharing ideas, discussing questions, and providing encouragement. Her parents’ prayers and the guidance of her lecturers also played a significant role in her success.
She graduated with a CGPA of 4.73 on a 5.0 scale.
Her family’s support was crucial. She wanted to make her father proud, especially after he worked hard to secure her scholarship. Her extended family, including her big sister and “big daddy,” provided financial and emotional support. Mentors like Prof. Oke Solomon and Dr. Faith Bankole guided her academic journey, while friends encouraged her to aim for excellence.
As the assistant course representative for her department, Aduragbemi found her coursemates supportive, which made the role manageable. In her final year, she juggled leadership roles as the Public Relations Officer for the Baptist Student Fellowship and Treasurer for the Unified Campus Christian Fellowship. Although it was challenging, she persevered and trusted God to reward her efforts.
Aduragbemi was driven by her father’s love for education and his sacrifices to support her. She felt a deep sense of responsibility to make him proud and couldn’t bear the thought of giving up. The scholarship eased their financial burden, motivating her to fight through challenges and succeed.
Initially uninterested in Microbiology, her perspective changed during practical sessions. Observing microorganisms through a microscope in her first year sparked her fascination. She realized there was much to explore in the world of microorganisms and became eager to learn more.
Aduragbemi is working on securing scholarships for a master’s degree in Public Health or Epidemiology. She hopes to study disease outbreaks, conduct research, and contribute to global health improvements.
She believes Microbiology is essential in tackling issues like pandemics, food security, and environmental conservation. She hopes the field will gain more recognition and appreciation globally.
Yes, she interned for six months at the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho. During this time, she worked with microorganisms, prepared growth media, and participated in research projects, including sample collection and analysis.
She learned that a smile doesn’t always signify the absence of pain. Despite challenges, she found strength in perseverance and faith.
Graduating with a first-class degree filled her with pride and gratitude. Her father’s emotional reaction, rolling on the floor upon seeing her statement of results, remains a cherished memory. She graduated in December 2023.
Aduragbemi emphasizes the importance of finding a personal study approach and relying on God. She believes success is attainable with determination, support from others, and faith.
She notes that Nigerian students face numerous challenges, including financial constraints and the undervaluation of certain courses. She advocates for equal respect and importance for all fields of study, emphasizing their collective contributions to society.
Aduragbemi is currently observing her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Ogun State while applying for scholarships and seeking job opportunities.
She is focused on furthering her education and building a career in Public Health or Epidemiology while contributing to global health systems.
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