Kehinde Ajayi is a shining example of what determination, resilience, and strategic planning can achieve. Hailing from Akure, Ondo State, Kehinde’s academic journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence, even in the face of setbacks and challenges. From initially dreaming of becoming a nurse to finding her calling in economics, she navigated her path with grace, focus, and an unyielding belief in her potential.
Today, as a first-class graduate, Kehinde’s story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the transformative power of hard work, mentorship, and faith. Her journey is not just about achieving academic success but also about discovering purpose, building confidence, and paving the way for a future filled with endless possibilities. In this interview with Abdulhaqq Obisesan, she takes us through the highs and lows of her university experience, sharing lessons and strategies that can guide anyone toward their own version of success. Excerpts.
Can you tell Edugist a bit about your background? What inspired you to pursue your degree?
My name is Kehinde Ajayi, and I am from Akure in Ondo State. I am the youngest in a family of five and have a twin sister. Initially, my plan was to study Nursing Science alongside my twin, but my journey took a different turn after failing to meet the cutoff mark for Nursing at the University of Ibadan for two consecutive years. This setback led to a change in plans. My father played a significant role in influencing my decision to pursue my current course, drawing inspiration from one of my older cousins who had excelled in the same field.
What motivated you to aim for a first-class degree? Was this a goal from the beginning, or did it develop over time?
Honestly, I don’t recall having the goal of achieving a first-class degree when I initially entered university. However, everything changed after I saw my 100-level first-semester results. That moment became a turning point as I realized the possibility of sustaining excellent grades. From then on, I was determined not to settle for anything less than the best. I kept motivating myself with the belief that things could only get better with consistent effort.
Did you face any personal challenges while studying? How did you overcome them?
Yes, I encountered various challenges during my academic journey. At times, I struggled to fully grasp some of the concepts being taught. To overcome this, I sought help from my classmates and senior colleagues who were more knowledgeable in those areas. There were also moments when I felt unmotivated to study, but I leaned on my mentors for encouragement and guidance, which always helped me regain my focus.
How did you structure your study routine to achieve consistent academic success?
I approached each semester with clear goals by writing down my desired grades for every course I was taking. Beyond following the department’s timetable, I developed a personal reading timetable tailored to my needs and maintained a to-do list to stay organized. This structure allowed me to track my progress and stay on course throughout the semester.
What study techniques or strategies worked best for you while studying?
Unlike many students, I preferred studying during the day and avoided last-minute cramming sessions. I adopted a strategy of reading in small, manageable chunks over time, which allowed me to absorb and retain information more effectively without overwhelming myself.
Were there any specific subjects or courses that you found particularly difficult? How did you tackle them?
There were definitely some courses that posed significant challenges. To address these difficulties, I actively sought help from knowledgeable classmates and participated in tutorials. Additionally, I prayed for grace and clarity, which gave me the mental strength to persevere through tough subjects.
How did you prepare for exams and handle the pressure of deadlines and assessments?
Preparation for exams was a gradual process for me. As mentioned earlier, I studied in small increments to avoid the stress and pressure that often comes with cramming. I also made sure to complete assignments well before their deadlines, prioritizing tasks to maintain a sense of order and balance in my academic life.
What role did your lecturers and university resources (libraries, academic support, etc.) play in your success?
My lecturers played a pivotal role in my success, not only by teaching us effectively but also by inspiring us to be better versions of ourselves. Lecturers like Professor O.A. Oni, Dr. Alawode, Professor Omonona, and Dr. Showunmi stood out for their dedication and encouragement. The university library was another invaluable resource that provided a conducive environment for focused reading and learning.
How did you manage to balance academics with social life and extracurricular activities?
Balancing academics with social and extracurricular activities was challenging, especially in the beginning. However, I learned to manage my time effectively and prioritize tasks to ensure that nothing interfered with my academic goals. This approach allowed me to maintain a healthy balance without compromising my studies.
How important was your peer group in your success? Did you study with friends or prefer to work alone?
My peer group was instrumental to my success. As the saying goes, “No man is an island of knowledge.” My friends taught me new concepts, encouraged me, and supported me through prayers. We often studied together and held overnight reading sessions, referred to as “TDB” (Till Day Break) at my school.
How did you stay motivated during low points, especially when things got tough?
During difficult times, I relied heavily on prayer and sought advice from mentors who believed in my potential. My friends and siblings were also a source of encouragement. Additionally, I reminded myself of my capabilities and maintained a positive mindset, which helped me push through challenges.
How did achieving a first-class degree change your perception of yourself or your abilities?
Earning a first-class degree significantly boosted my self-esteem. It validated my belief in my ability to excel and reinforced the idea that, with the right resources and motivation, I could achieve greatness. This achievement has given me the confidence to pursue even greater goals in the future.
If you could go back to your first year, what advice would you give to your younger self?
If I could revisit my first year at university, I would advise my younger self to establish a clear career path early on. Knowing where I wanted to go would have given me direction and purpose. Time management would be another crucial lesson, as proper planning ensures that every moment is utilized effectively. I would encourage myself to explore extracurricular activities aligned with my career goals, acquire valuable skills, and actively seek internships or externships to gain hands-on experience. These efforts would have better prepared me for life beyond the classroom while making the university experience more fulfilling.
Additionally, I would remind myself to apply for scholarships to ease financial pressures and create more opportunities for growth. Above all, I would stress the importance of seeking God and placing Him at the center of my journey. With His guidance and strength, I could navigate challenges and embrace victories with peace and clarity. These lessons, combined with a proactive approach, would have helped me maximize my potential and achieve an even greater level of success.
Now that you’ve graduated with a first-class degree, what are your plans for the future?
In the short term, I plan to focus on self-development and further my education by pursuing a Master’s degree (MSc). In the long term, my goal is to establish a career in academia, specializing in economics and finance research.
How has your academic achievement shaped your career aspirations? Do you feel more doors have opened for you?
Yes, my academic achievement has given me a competitive edge, providing recognition and access to opportunities both locally and internationally. Many scholarships and career opportunities have specific grade requirements, and my first-class degree has positioned me as a strong candidate for such prospects.
What career opportunities are you most excited about, and how do you plan on leveraging your degree?
I am most excited about opportunities in academia. I plan to leverage my degree as a foundation for pursuing advanced studies, including a PhD, which will hone my research and teaching skills. Additionally, I intend to apply for scholarships to support my academic and professional journey.
