Ayodeji Akinsanya graduated from the University of Ilorin with an outstanding CGPA of 4.97/5.00, emerging as the institution’s best graduating student.
A graduate from the Department of Mathematics, Ayodeji’s journey is one marked by resilience, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this exclusive interview with KOREDE BADMUS, Ayodeji shares insights on the motivations and challenges that shaped his success story. Excerpts .
What key factors motivated you to study mathematics?
The major factor that motivated me to study mathematics was that when I was young, my dad dedicated time to teaching me math when he had issues with his job. He spent most of his time with us, laying the foundation for mathematics. Also, I saw how mathematics solves complex problems, and seeing that a simple equation can lead to large calculations makes it more interesting.
You mentioned taking the JAMB exam four times on Facebook. How did that experience shape your determination?
After graduating from secondary school, taking JAMB four times gave me a new perspective on life. Initially, I was naive; I was a young boy with no experience, but taking JAMB four times gave me the view that life is more than just walking around aimlessly.
This experience shaped the technique I used for studying because, at a point, I had to sit myself down to ask what exactly I wasn’t doing right and why I wasn’t succeeding academically. I was able to identify the areas that needed improvement and ensured that I got the results I wanted.
Can you share some challenging moments from your undergraduate studies and how you overcame them?
The most challenging moments as an undergraduate were financial issues. Coming from a humble background, I overcame this by tutoring at IJMB centers and university tutorial centers, so I earned enough to cover expenses. I also secured two scholarships: the Federal Government Fund and the MTN scholarship.
What strategies did you adopt that contributed to your outstanding academic performance?
The first strategy I applied was that I prepared early. I don’t like working under pressure, so I began my reading during holidays to gain background knowledge of the courses. Also, I read whatever was taught in class immediately after I arrived home from lectures, and I revised during the weekends. I ensured that I went through the entire course materials and notes without leaving any out. Applying these techniques helped me to assimilate faster and do less work during the exam period.
What does being the Overall Best Graduating Student at the University of Ilorin mean to you?
It means a lot to me. When I was told I was the best graduating student, I was extremely happy. I felt proud of myself for bringing my family’s name into the spotlight. Yes, it means a lot to me.
Were you involved in social activities while you were in school? If so, how did you balance them with academics?
In my final year, I was involved in one activity: chairing the Mathematics department’s electoral committee in 400 level. To balance academics and this role, I created a schedule to manage my time effectively. As the chairman, I ensured that the meetings started on time and lasted no more than two hours. Whenever we had meetings, I ensured that everybody was seated and that the meeting did not exceed the stipulated two hours. Primarily, time management and discipline helped me.
What factors helped you achieve this feat?
Two key factors were my background and encouraging brother. Seeing the way my parents struggled to do their best for me, and my brother’s daily encouragement, pushed me to achieve what I have achieved today.
Were you involved in a relationship during school? If so, how did you stay focused?
Yes, I was in a relationship during my undergraduate days. The major thing was that we defined our relationship and set boundaries to ensure it didn’t affect our studies. But at a point, when I noticed that it wasn’t going the way I wanted, we ended it.
When Did You First Realize The Possibility Of Achieving Outstanding Academic Results?
My goal when I came to the University of Ilorin was to graduate with a first-class degree, so I tried my best to make a plan. After achieving a 4.89 GPA in 100 level, despite two Bs which were 69, I pushed harder. With a 5.0 GPA in 200 level, my CGPA rose to 4.95, making me the scholar of my department. Afterwards, I calculated the possibility of scoring 5.0 every semester and realized that I’d graduate with a 4.97 CGPA, so I decided to put in my best to see if I could achieve it. After doing my best, God did it for me.
Do you keep a large or small circle of friends?
I wouldn’t say I kept a large circle of friends in school, but I was open to almost everybody in my department, and I have some people I am close to. So, I don’t have a direct answer to whether I kept a large circle of friends or not.
How Did Your Family, Friends, Lecturers, And Mentors Contribute To Your Success?
My family greatly contributed to my success. My mom, my dad, and my elder brother are my great motivators. Also, some of my lecturers were approachable, so I discussed my academic issues with them and even personal issues, and they offered their sincere advice. My project supervisor also guided me through research.
What Advice Would You Give Current Or Incoming Students Regarding Academic Success?
My advice is to study yourself and identify what works best for you. Everyone’s learning pace is different; some assimilate faster, while some assimilate slower. You must understand your learning style. Also, you should let go of the notion that studying is hard; instead, put in your best effort to achieve excellence.
What Lessons From Your Undergraduate Studies Will You Carry Throughout Your Career?
The lesson I’ll carry is that the road to success is not smooth, but consistency yields rewards.
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