A graduate of Ekiti State University (EKSU) who once felt ashamed of her 100-level results has taken to social media to celebrate her remarkable final year CGPA. The young woman, who initially struggled academically, transformed her performance through dedication and hard work.
From 3.3 to 4.30: A Story of Academic Resilience
The graduate, who identified herself as Oluwemida Hannah Gift, shared her journey on TikTok under the handle @floral040. She revealed that after her first year, she obtained a CGPA of 3.3 out of 5.0, a result that left her feeling confused and embarrassed. Rather than sharing her grade with others, she kept it to herself and resolved to improve.
In her post, Gift explained: "I started university with a 3.3 CGPA. Yes… don’t be too wowed. When I saw that result, I was confused and honestly a bit ashamed. I couldn’t tell anyone. I kept it to myself for a long time. But even when nobody else knew, God saw me."
Determined to turn her academic fortunes around, she adopted a rigorous study routine that included tutorials, midnight readings, and sleepless nights. She humorously noted that she became the "night head mistress of the lecture theatre" and developed close friendships with mosquitoes during her late-night study sessions.
Hard Work Pays Off
Her perseverance yielded impressive results. Gift graduated with a degree in SLT Biotechnology/Biological Science and achieved a final CGPA of 4.30, earning a First Class honours. She proudly declared: "I proudly call it First Class Lower. If e reach your turn, you can call yours Second Class Upper! But this degree is mine, and it carries my whole heart."
She further emphasized that the journey tested every aspect of her being. "SLT tested every bone and fibre in me. I cried while learning. I laughed while learning. Many times I doubted my strength and ability. But in the end, GOD DID."
Gift’s story has resonated with many online, serving as an inspiration to students who may be struggling with their own academic performance. She concluded her post by stating that her achievement is proof that growth is possible regardless of one’s starting point. "If my journey has taught me anything, it is that consistency is real and perseverance truly pays off. I didn’t start strong, but I finished strong — and that is completely by God’s grace."
In a related story, a University of Ibadan graduate celebrated her graduation by wearing a shirt that highlighted the challenges she faced, including COVID-19 and academic strikes. Meanwhile, a Nigerian man who earned a master’s degree in Information Systems in the United States shared his success, finishing with a CGPA of 3.94 out of 4.0.
