“I Shunned Clubs and Parties” FUTA First-Class Graduate Shares Journey to Academic Excellence

Omowunmi Fatoki, a first-class Industrial Chemistry graduate from FUTA, achieved academic excellence through discipline, strategic studying, and personal sacrifices, including avoiding distractions like clubbing and parties, while also balancing financial independence and extracurricular activities.

A 25-year-old first-class graduate of Industrial Chemistry from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Omowunmi Fatoki, has highlighted the dedication and discipline that contributed to her academic success. She gained admission in 2018 and resumed in the 2019 academic session, graduating in 2024. Initially aspiring to study Medicine or Pharmacy, she changed her focus to Industrial Chemistry after multiple unsuccessful admission attempts. Recognizing her strength in Chemistry, she decided to pursue the field, believing it would still align with her career aspirations.

From the onset of her academic journey, Fatoki was determined to graduate with a first-class degree. Although her first-semester GPA of 4.45 was below the first-class threshold, she remained focused and improved her performance. Challenges arose during her 300-level second semester when she obtained a GPA of 4.36, her lowest, due to a difficult course. Despite the setback, she persisted and worked harder, ensuring she maintained her academic standing. Her commitment ultimately led her to graduate with a CGPA of 4.74 as the best student in her department and the best female in her faculty.

Balancing academics with other responsibilities, Fatoki supported herself financially by giving private home lessons while actively participating in church fellowships and volunteering. She attributed her success to consistent study habits, avoiding distractions such as clubbing and unnecessary social activities, and surrounding herself with supportive individuals. She also developed a personal study technique by summarizing lecture materials in her own words and repeatedly reviewing them before exams.

Her academic journey was further shaped by the support of her family and mentors. Raised by a single mother after losing her father at age five, she credited her mother for her resilience and strength. A mentor introduced to her by her uncle, who was a lecturer at FUTA, played a crucial role in securing a female-focused scholarship and providing guidance. She noted that while Nigeria’s education system supports academic excellence to some extent, issues such as outdated curricula and inadequate facilities hinder students’ full potential.

Looking ahead, Fatoki plans to apply for scholarships and further her education through a master’s or PhD program. She envisions completing her PhD within the next five years, using her first-class degree as a stepping stone to greater opportunities. Encouraging other students, she emphasized the importance of focus, discipline, and strategic learning. She particularly enjoys Organic Chemistry due to its practical applications and remains passionate about advancing her knowledge in the field.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH