A current student at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Juliana Oke, has shared the remarkable story of how she ended up at the prestigious institution despite her initial desire to study at Lagos State University (LASU).
The Backstory
While studying at The Polytechnic of Ibadan, Juliana felt she wanted more than a Higher National Diploma (HND). Despite facing discouragement from people who said it would not work or that she would waste time pursuing Direct Entry, she applied to several universities. She visited the University of Ibadan (UI), LASU, Yaba College of Technology, and even gained admission to UNILAG's Distance Learning Institute (Part-time), but she was not satisfied.
The Dream That Changed Everything
In early 2024, while staying at a friend's place, Juliana had a vivid dream. In the dream, someone appeared to her and instructed her to retake the UTME (formerly JAMB). She responded that registration had closed, but the voice insisted she should check. Initially brushing it off, she later heard the same voice strongly while showering at home, urging her to verify if registration was still open.
She checked and discovered that the registration for the post-UTME was still open. Encouraged by her sister and friends, she decided to go for it. She studied diligently, prepared rigorously, wrote the exam, completed the post-UTME, and by God's grace, she succeeded.
A Higher Plan
Reflecting on her journey, Juliana admitted that she had wanted LASU with all her heart, but God had a bigger plan. Today, she is a student at UNILAG, and from the very first day of lectures, she has felt deeply that she is there for a purpose. She concluded that this journey reminds her that God's timing is perfect and His plans are always higher than ours.
Her story serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of discouragement.
