A Nigerian lady who recently graduated from the University of Ibadan has shared her academic journey on social media, revealing that she wrote the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination three times before gaining admission in 2019. The nursing graduate successfully completed her degree with second-class upper honours and received several awards.
Overcoming Academic Hurdles
Rebecca Akinyinka, a young Nigerian, celebrated her graduation from the University of Ibadan after overcoming several academic hurdles. Despite facing delays with her secondary school results and multiple entrance examinations, she successfully earned her Bachelor of Nursing Science degree. Akinyinka detailed her timeline on LinkedIn, explaining that her journey to becoming a nurse began long before her 2019 admission.
JAMB and Post-UTME Struggles
She explained that after finishing secondary school in 2015, she had to retake her WAEC exams in 2017. The graduate further noted that she wrote both JAMB and Post-UTME three times each before eventually finding a spot at Nigeria's premier university. Her time in school was also extended by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strikes.
Building Capacity Beyond Academics
While she finished with a Second Class Upper, Akinyinka emphasized that she focused on more than just her grades. She noted that she served in various leadership capacities within and outside the university during her five-year stay. In her words: 'When I look back and count my blessings, all I can say is God is ever faithful. The journey of 5 years has finally ended and although I didn't finish with a first class, the dream of every student, I ensured I built capacity while in school.'
Reactions to Her Graduation
Many people reacted to Akinyinka's post on social media. Blessing Esther Adejare said: 'This is so inspiring! You have shown that nursing students are not just restricted to academics! Weldone! Congratulations!' Gracious Araoye said: 'Congratulationsssss Global Becca.' Ismail Abdullahi said: 'Keep breaking barriers princess.'
In related news, the Lagos State University's best graduating student previously opened up about her admission experience in an interview with Legit.ng, sharing her admission struggle, experience in school, and future goals.
