LASU Graduate Overcomes UTME Doubts to Achieve First Class Honors
A determined graduate from Lagos State University (LASU) has shared her inspiring academic journey on social media, revealing how she transformed initial disappointment into outstanding success. Bakare Simbiat Olanike, who initially felt let down by her Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) score of 271, persevered through her university years to graduate with first-class honors.
From UTME Disappointment to Academic Excellence
Olanike explained that when she received her UTME results, she experienced mixed emotions. While many around her were surprised she achieved such a score without formal JAMB preparation classes, she personally believed she deserved better. This moment became particularly significant as she had made a silent vow to be the first in her family not to repeat the entrance examination.
"I felt I deserved better," Olanike recalled about seeing her 271 score. "Others were surprised I got such 'high' scores without reading or attending any JAMB lessons. I was worried because I had already made a silent promise to be the first person in my family not to sit for the examination twice."
Unexpected Course Leads to Remarkable Achievement
When LASU's admission list was released, Olanike discovered she had been offered a place to study Agriculture, a development that initially disappointed her. Like many Nigerian students, she had initially aspired toward traditionally prestigious courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering, having selected Dentistry as her JAMB choice.
"My childish heart sank," she admitted about receiving the Agriculture admission offer. "So I was going to be an Agric Teacher??"
Despite parental suggestions to rewrite the UTME, Olanike decided to accept the admission and thoroughly research opportunities within Agricultural Economics. This research transformed her perspective, revealing promising career paths both within Nigeria and internationally.
Consistent Excellence Throughout University Years
Olanike's academic journey at LASU was characterized by remarkable consistency. She began her first year with an impressive 4.71 CGPA and maintained this standard throughout her studies. Her approach was guided by personal discipline and a favorite biblical principle: "Whatsoever the hand finds to do, do it well."
The recognition of her achievements came when the university's Vice Chancellor awarded scholarships to first-class graduates, selecting Olanike as one of only two recipients from her class. This honor earned her the affectionate nickname "Scholar Nike" among peers and faculty members.
Final Triumph and Future Aspirations
Despite facing her most challenging academic year during her final session, Olanike demonstrated resilience and determination. She graduated with a first-class CGPA of 4.71, achieving the position of second overall best student in both her department and faculty.
"This is by far my biggest accomplishment and my proudest moment," Olanike declared in her social media post. "I'm now BAKARE SIMBIAT OLANIKE, B.Agric (Agricultural Economics), First Class Honors (4.71). Now, I hope the world is ready for me because I plan to keep being the best wherever I find myself."
Interestingly, during her Agricultural Economics studies, Olanike developed a strong interest in Finance, suggesting potential interdisciplinary career paths ahead. Her story joins a growing narrative of Nigerian students overcoming initial academic challenges to achieve exceptional results, serving as inspiration for current UTME candidates and university students nationwide.
