Achieving a first-class degree requires hard work, commitment, discipline, dedication, and strategic planning. In an interview, Akpala Godwin, a Microbiology graduate from FUNAAB with a CGPA of 4.69, shares his academic journey with KOREDE BADMUS.
May we meet you?
My name is Akpala Godwin, a recent graduate in Microbiology from FUNAAB, with a CGPA of 4.69.
What inspired you to study microbiology at FUNAAB, and why did you aim for a first-class degree?
I actually attended Yaba Tech, a polytechnic, where I completed my program with a distinction, achieving a CGPA of 3.5/4.0. After that, I planned to further my studies at the University. My initial plan was to go to the University of Lagos, but it was almost impossible to do a direct entry from Yaba Tech because there were some restrictions. So, I opted for FUNAAB instead, because it was closer to Lagos, where I was living at that time. I chose Microbiology, passed the exams, and gained admission. And I aimed for a first-class because I knew what I was capable of and I didn’t want anything less for myself. Even though there were some setbacks, I ensured I gave everything my best just to achieve my goals.
What is your CGPA upon graduation?
4.69
Can you walk us through your academic journey from your first year to your final year?
I resumed in 200 level, but my journey was challenging due to some breaks that spanned for a couple of months. It was during this time we had the COVID-19 lockdown and the ASUU strike. It was challenging because all the courses I did were virtual and this made it difficult. After my 200 level, I had a 4.54 GPA which happens to be my first, then in the second semester was 4.6 GPA and these happened to be the lowest GPA I had during my entire stay in school. 300 level was also tough because it was during this level we got to learn about the main microbiology and the details in microbiology. We were exposed to new things and new ways of studying. During this period, I had a 4.67 GPA and my CGPA rose to 4.56. When we got to 400 level, it was more intense, but God came through for me. It was these two semesters I wrote 4.96 GPA consecutively. And these results helped me in securing my place as a first-class student.
Did you always perform exceptionally well in secondary school, or did you have to change your approach in the university?
When I was in secondary school, I was a good student because I was always among the top five, but from the onset, I knew that university is a different experience entirely. Before I gained admission, I did self-orientation and made research about university life and getting to know how top students excelled. This prepared me mentally, so I was ready from the start.
What study techniques and strategies helped you achieve a first-class in microbiology?
My approach varied, but what helped me is that I made sure I tried my best to understand whatever the lecturer taught us in class. For instance, if a lecturer taught us on Monday and Wednesday, I made sure that by Saturday, I had understood everything for that week. Weekends were for reading. While in school, I didn’t engage in many extracurricular activities. Also, I never crammed. I tried to understand the concepts. YouTube was also of great help to me whenever I struggled with certain topics. Additionally, I didn’t only depend on what the lecturers taught me in class but would do some self-research.
How did you manage your time between lectures, assignments, and personal life?
I know when to do the right things. What I’d just say is that know how to balance everything.
Did you have a particular approach to taking notes during lectures and revising for exams?
I usually do not like writing notes. Instead, I paid attention then borrow notes from my colleagues that write notes and snap then summarize the note whenever I go to the library.
What were the major challenges you faced as a microbiology student at FUNAAB?
One major challenge was the poor power supply, which sometimes meant studying in the dark. Also, some lecturers are not very approachable, so I had to put in extra effort to learn more outside what was taught.
Were there any courses you struggled with, and how did you overcome those difficulties?
Yes, but I always had this mindset of an overcomer. I believed I could find solutions to any challenges. One of the solutions is getting past questions, which helped me identify important areas to focus on. Attending classes also helped because some lecturers dropped hints about their exam questions during lectures. I made it a habit to start studying from the moment school resumes.
How did you handle stress, or moments of discouragement?
Whenever I feel stressed out, I talk to friends or sometimes unwind. Sometimes I would listen to music and relax before returning back to my studies. I handled moments of discouragement by encouraging myself to push through.
How did you balance social life with maintaining academic excellence?
I balanced it well. I had my time scheduled for everything.
What advice would you give to students aspiring to graduate with a first-class degree?
My advice is to build a strong academic foundation early so that you won’t struggle later. Graduating with a first-class degree requires planning, consistency, and knowing why you’re in school. Start early, stay disciplined, and do the right things from the beginning.
If you could go back to your first year, is there anything you would do differently?
No. I did my best and I did not really make mistakes. My experience at Yaba Tech had already taught me needed lessons, so I was well-prepared for university.
How do you see the future of microbiology in Nigeria, and what opportunities should students explore?
The future of microbiology in Nigeria is still developing. Unfortunately, microbiology has not yet been recognized as a professional course. I would advise students not to let it discourage them. There are many opportunities abroad, and they should explore those as well. But I hope things will get better here in Nigeria over time.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
