Makinde Victoria’s journey to academic success is a story of perseverance, faith, and unwavering determination.
As a first-class graduate in Pharmacy from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Makinde Spoke with KOREDE BADMUS that she faced numerous challenges that threatened to derail her dreams.
Yet, her steadfast belief in God’s plan and her commitment to her studies enabled her to overcome every obstacle. In this interview, she opens up about the strategies, struggles, and motivations that propelled her to the top of her class.Enkoy the excerpt:
Can we meet you?
My name is Makinde Victoria, a native of Oyo State, and I currently live in Ibadan. I am the last-born child in my family.
Why did you choose to study Pharmacy, and what inspired you to pursue it at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)?
I chose to study Pharmacy because I wanted to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by helping them recover their health. After my third attempt at writing JAMB, I felt directed by God to apply to Olabisi Onabanjo University, which became my first choice. This was where I felt a divine calling as I sought guidance on the next steps for my future.
What was your CGPA at the time of graduation, and how did you feel achieving such an exceptional result?
My CGPA at graduation was 4.69 out of 5.0. I felt elated and grateful, as being among the top 10 students in my class was an achievement I had worked tirelessly for.
Did you have any specific strategy or routine that helped you maintain consistent academic excellence throughout your years at OOU?
Yes, I had a strategy of consistent study. I made a habit of reading almost every day, even before the semester began, so that I could cover most of the syllabus ahead of time. This approach helped to reduce the stress of exams by making me well-prepared in advance.
What were the biggest challenges you faced during your time at OOU, and how did you overcome them?
The major challenges occurred in my third and final years, especially when dealing with bulky courses and the pressure of completing my final-year project. I overcame these challenges by relying on my faith, reminding myself of Philippians 4:13, which says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Was there ever a time when you felt like giving up? If so, what motivated you to keep going?
Yes, there were times when I felt overwhelmed and cried out of frustration. However, I kept reminding myself of my ultimate goal: to become a certified pharmacist. I also leaned on my faith, knowing that I wasn’t alone—God was with me every step of the way.
How did you manage your time effectively, balancing academics with other aspects of life such as social interactions and personal interests?
Time management became essential. I learned how to allocate time wisely for everything, ensuring each hour was used productively. This balance allowed me to focus on my academic goals without neglecting my personal life or social interactions.
Were there any mentors, lecturers, or course mates who significantly influenced your academic journey?
Yes, several individuals played a crucial role in my success. Dr. Olaitan, one of my lecturers, and Matthew Efoli, a dear friend and mentor, were a tremendous source of motivation and guidance throughout my academic journey.
What role did family and friends play in your journey to graduating with a first-class in Pharmacy?
My family and friends were indispensable. They supported me financially, emotionally, and spiritually, offering prayers that sustained me through the toughest times.
Can you share a memorable experience or achievement during your time at OOU that inspired you to push further?
One memorable experience was after my 400-level first semester when my results came out, and I had achieved 8 A’s and 1 B. This performance was not only a personal achievement but also a significant inspiration that motivated me to push even harder for academic excellence.
What study habits or techniques worked best for you, and which ones would you recommend to other students?
I found that studying during the day, particularly in the early hours of the morning, worked best for me. I recommend that students identify their most productive study times and stick to them. It’s important to realize that everyone’s learning style is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.
How did you handle pressure during exams or stressful periods, especially in a demanding field like Pharmacy?
I handled pressure by relying on my faith. The word of God was my anchor. I reminded myself that I am a child of God, and His grace was sufficient for me to overcome any challenge I faced. This mindset kept me calm and focused during stressful times.
What advice would you give to current students aspiring to achieve a first-class degree, especially in challenging programs like Pharmacy?
My advice is to believe in the possibility of success, no matter how difficult the journey may seem. With faith, determination, and hard work, nothing is impossible. Always give your best and trust that with God’s help, you can achieve great things.
Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently during your university years?
I wish I hadn’t compared myself to others at certain points. I realized later that I am unique in my own way, and comparison only distracted me. This became evident when my CGPA slightly dropped in my third year. I now understand that focusing on my own journey is far more fulfilling.
What are your future plans, and how do you intend to use your first-class degree in Pharmacy to contribute to society or your field?
My future plans involve using my first-class degree to impact lives as a pharmacist. I am already involved in counseling and supporting pharmacy students who may be struggling academically. I aim to contribute to society by offering guidance and mentorship to those pursuing similar paths.
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