Janet Omotola Olaosebikan has joined the league of first-class graduates from the University of Ibadan, having successfully completed a degree in Library, Archival, and Information Science. Her academic journey, marked by hard work, resilience, and unwavering focus, is a testament to the power of determination. In this interview with KOREDE BADMUS, she shares her experiences, challenges, and advice for students aspiring to achieve similar heights.
Congratulations on graduating with a first-class! How does it feel to officially be a first-class graduate?
It feels amazing. I can finally relate to the “stand up for the champion” song on my graduation day.
Can you tell us your full name and the department you graduated from?
Janet Omotola Olaosebikan, Library, Archival, and Information Science.
What was your cumulative grade point average (CGPA), and how did it feel seeing that final result?
3.51/4.0. I felt fulfilled.
Looking back, how would you describe your academic journey from 100 level to 400 level?
It was tough, especially since I was sponsoring myself. I had a tote bag business and also did petty jobs like ushering and food delivery while being a student. It was really challenging, particularly in 100L when I was still familiarizing myself with school life.
Your results show consistent growth across your levels. What would you say contributed to that steady improvement?
I’d say determination, hard work, and focus.
Was there any particular moment you realized you were on track for a first-class?
That was in year two when I had 10 As, 4 Bs, and 1 C. I thought that if I could maintain such grades for the next two years, I’d finally make it to first class.
How did you manage to maintain your grades, especially during the more demanding years like 300 and 400 levels?
It’s funny— I did more courses in 300L and was also actively campaigning for the position of general secretary in my faculty. But I had a reading pattern that I started in 200L, and I had seniors who guided me whenever I was confused. My lecturers were also amazing and accessible.
What inspired your choice of course – Library, Archival, and Information Science?
Actually, I was advised to take the course with the intention of studying Law afterward. Some might think I didn’t merit my desired course at the University of Ibadan, but that’s not true. In 2019, I registered for Law with a point of 71.625, while the cutoff was 74.75. I picked LIS with the fear of not meeting the cutoff again, hoping to study Law as a second degree. Surprisingly, I scored higher than the Law cutoff mark.
Were there any specific challenges or setbacks you faced during your studies, and how did you overcome them?
Yes, there were setbacks. I fell sick most of the time in 100L. I think that’s the main one I remember.
Did you ever feel pressured or exhausted trying to maintain your performance? How did you handle those moments?
I honestly didn’t feel pressured, but I was exhausted. I handled it by always thinking about the bigger picture. Whenever I reminded myself that this was just a short-term phase, I found the motivation to put in more effort.
Were you involved in any extracurricular activities or leadership roles while in school?
Yes. In 100L and 200L, I was a member of my department’s legislative council. In 300L, I was the clerk of the house, and in 400L, I served as the general secretary for my faculty students’ association. I was also active in my department’s L&D, served as a speech coach in 300L, participated in public speaking in 200L, and was vice president of Leads Club in 300L, a female-only club I co-founded. Basically, I was very active in both my department and faculty.
What are your plans now that you’ve graduated? Do you plan to further your studies, work, or explore another path?
I’m currently working as a travel manager and counselor in Lagos, but after NYSC, I plan to return to study Law. I have a lot I want to accomplish in life, so this is just part of it.
What advice would you give to students who are aiming for a first-class degree?
They can always get it. First class is not out of reach, and nothing beats academic validation. Graduating with a First-Class degree is possible for anyone. As long as they put their mind to it, they will achieve it.
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