Meet Okewusi Olusegun, a distinguished graduate from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, whose journey to academic excellence exemplifies dedication, discipline, and a commitment to making a difference.
In this interview, with KOREDE BADMUS, Okewusi shares insights into his motivations, challenges faced, and aspirations for the future, offering a glimpse into what drives him beyond the classroom.
Can we meet you?
Certainly. I am Okewusi Olusegun, a recent graduate of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, where I earned a first-class degree in Animal Physiology.
What is your CGPA upon graduation?
I graduated with a CGPA of 4.56, which is a first-class honor degree.
What was your biggest motivation for striving for first-class honors, and how did you stay disciplined throughout?
My biggest motivation for striving for first-class honors was not only to make my sponsors, family, and myself proud, but also to encourage others that academic success is possible and achievable, no matter the circumstances. As for staying disciplined, faith and determination were key factors.
If you could go back to your first year, what advice would you give your younger self?
Looking back, I would advise my younger self to prioritize serving God, maintain focus and discipline from the outset, and actively engage in extracurricular activities. I would also emphasize the importance of staying positive and resilient in the face of challenges.
How did you balance academics with personal life, friendships, and extracurricular activities?
Balancing academics, personal life, and religious activities was achievable through intentional time management. By dedicating specific times to each aspect of my life, I ensured effective prioritization and maintained a healthy balance.
Were there ever moments you felt like giving up? How did you push through?
Yes, particularly during my 300-level, I faced moments of despair. However, encouragement from mentors and friends, along with divine strength, helped me persevere.
What’s one thing you wish universities taught students beyond just academics?
Character development.
Now that you have your degree, what’s your next big step, Further studies, a job, or something else?
I aim to pursue both employment opportunities and further studies.
Many graduates struggle to find jobs—do you have a specific plan for navigating the job market?
I trust in God’s guidance to open doors for me.
Do you feel Nigerian universities prepare students for life after school? What could be improved?.
Yes, Nigerian universities provide a foundation not only for academic excellence but also for future success. However, improvements such as increased scholarships and career-oriented extracurricular activities could enhance preparation.
What does success mean to you—academic excellence, financial stability, or personal fulfillment?
Success, to me, means fulfilling God’s purpose for my life on earth.
If you could have dinner with any three influential people—dead or alive—who would they be and why?
I would choose Pastor E.A. Adeboye to learn from his steadfast faith, and Baba Olusegun Obasanjo to understand his journey from poverty to global influence.
In five to ten years, where do you see yourself, and what legacy do you hope to leave behind?
In the next five to ten years, I envision myself fulfilling God’s mandate by creating job opportunities and contributing to poverty alleviation in Nigeria.
My legacy aims to inspire and empower others to achieve their potential through determination, hard work, and faith.
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