Timileyin Isaiah Adegboyega, fondly called “Smart,” is a remarkable graduate of Microbiology from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB). Earning first-class honors, he attributes his success to divine faithfulness, resilience, and an unwavering determination to excel.
In this interview, with KOREDE BADMUS, Adegboyega shares his journey, from his disciplined study habits and academic challenges to his proudest moments and the lessons learned along the way.
A passionate advocate for education, Adegboyega emphasizes the importance of starting strong, managing time effectively, and never losing sight of one’s goals.
He also highlights the role of research in addressing public health issues, aligning his aspirations with global development goals. In his words, “If academic excellence is achievable, why settle for average?”
Can we meet you?
I’m Timileyin Isaiah Adegboyega, popularly known as Smart. I graduated from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology with first-class honors.
What does graduating with first-class honors from your department mean to you?
It’s a testament to God’s faithfulness, my resilience, tenacity, and determination.
Which unexpected lessons or skills did you pick up during your journey to earning first-class honors?
The journey taught me that we can achieve anything we set our minds to. I also learned the importance of effective time management and maintaining balance in all aspects of life.
Are there any specific resources, mentors, or study techniques that aided your success?
I relied on class PDFs, past questions, and my personal jotter for summaries. I don’t believe in specific study techniques—just find what works for you and stick to it.
If you could revisit your first day as a Microbiology student, what advice would you give your younger self?
I’d advise myself to start strong and maintain excellence. Academic success largely depends on how well you begin, as it’s difficult to change your trajectory in the final stages.
If you could work on any research in Microbiology right now, what would it be and why?
I’d focus on research in public health, particularly infectious diseases and evaluating antimicrobial activities from natural sources. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which emphasizes good health and well-being.
Did you ever have a moment in the lab where something went hilariously wrong but taught you a valuable lesson?
Yes! During my SIWES at the College of Veterinary Microbiology, FUNAAB, I mistakenly streaked on Potato Dextrose Agar instead of stabbing the sample to isolate a fungus. I’ll never make that mistake again!
Was there a time when you thought achieving first-class honours was out of reach, how did you turn things around?
Never! I set the goal early on. My first result in 100L was a 4.3, which confirmed my belief that first-class honors were achievable.
Were you in a relationship during your time in school? How did you balance academics with it?
The only relationship I maintained was with God because He made it happen. Others can manage relationships if it works for them, but for me, “He who is complete never competes.”
If your struggles during your degree were a movie, what would the title be?
Timileyin Adegboyega: An Epitome of Resilience and Determination!
What’s the proudest moment of your academic career, and why does it stand out?
Seeing multiple “A’s” on my results was the proudest moment. It reflected my sacrifices, sleepless nights, and commitment to excellence.
If you had to summarize the secret to your academic success in just three words, what would they be?
God showed up!
Looking back, is there anything you would do differently in your academic journey?
I’d surround myself more with people of similar passions and goals.
Imagine you’re mentoring struggling students.
What’s the first piece of advice you’d give them to rekindle their motivation?
I’d remind them that tertiary education is a privilege. Many people are denied this opportunity due to reasons beyond their control. Don’t trivialize it—make the best use of it.
Any lessons or memorable moments you’d like to share?
One key lesson is that your first-class result starts from the first class. Another is that “Success is a noisemaker.” Despite being reserved, my academic achievements brought me recognition and friendships.
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