You can’t give what you don’t have – Adesope

In a captivating conversation with Edugist reporter, Folaranmi Ajayi, Adesope, a dynamic communication graduate, shared insights into his transformative journey through education. Hailing from Osun State, Adesope navigated his way from a polytechnic to the hallowed halls of Federal University Oye Ekiti, where he recently completed his Mass Communication degree. A trailblazer in his own right, Adesope’s time at the university was marked by remarkable leadership, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. As editor-in-chief for both a magazine and a newspaper, he confronted challenges head-on, forging a path that highlighted his ability to lead and inspire his peers. From his experiences, Adesope exemplifies the importance of adapting to change, the impact of internships, and the need to bridge the gap between different educational systems. Looking ahead, Adesope envisions himself excelling in the world of sports journalism or academia, all while embodying the spirit of perseverance and dedication that he imparts to aspiring undergraduates and admissions seekers. Excerpt

Give a brief description of your family and educational background and name of course and institution.

My parents, Alhaji and Mrs Adetunji, birthed four children (all male). Originally from Osun state, Ikire to be precise but staying in Ibadan, Oyo state. I had my primary and secondary school in Ibadan before bagging a National Diploma certificate in Mass Communication from Osun State polytechnic, Iree. I then studied Mass Communication at the Federal University Oye Ekiti where I signed out recently.

Could you share your most impactful experience or project during your time at university and explain how it has prepared you for the professional world?

I think that will be when I led the class to produce a magazine and newspaper. I was the class representative and editor in chief for both publications, making things really hard for me. This project made me know that some of us are chronic plagiarists.

Despite my stern warning against plagiarism of news contents, we still have erring members who copied news directly online. My conversation with the lecturer in charge made me realise that “you can’t give what you don’t have” and this opened my eyes to the fact that we’d meet different people with different cognitive abilities and as head of the editorial board, I should know how to bring out the best in my team members.

What specific skills or qualities do you believe set you apart from other recent graduates in your field?

I will say resilience, leadership, hard work and optimism. I have these amazing abilities intricate in me and I believe it is a distinguishing factor.

Tell us about a challenging situation you encountered while pursuing your degree. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience?

Everyday is a challenge at the Federal university Oye Ekiti. As a class representative before emerging as the substantive Student Union Government Vice President, it became a big issue for me to manage my time and create a balance between unionism/representation and my academics. It took the grace of God and personal dedication to make it seamless, it wasn’t easy by the way.

In what ways have you demonstrated your ability to work effectively in a team, both academically and in extracurricular activities?

Like I said I was the class rep and my academic performance automatically made me eligible to be the editor in chief of any publication made by my class. I made sure I worked with other members very well. Even when I was guest editor for lower classes, I took them on the various ways by which one can write good reports, features, editorials et cetera. I also captain our football team.

Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt to unexpected changes? How did you navigate this situation and achieve a positive outcome?

That should be 2019 which happened to be my first year in school but second semester. My friend who is the class rep couldn’t continue and I was vested with the responsibility of leading my class. I didn’t expect it because I wasn’t even the assistant then but one thing led to another and I became the class rep. I faced my fears and tried to channel my inner responsibility trait in order to deliver and I can boast of having a very successful and impactful class representative tenure. It all boils down to one’s tenacity and ability to innovate .

Discuss a recent trend or development in your field of study. How do you think this will impact the industry, and how do you plan to stay current with such changes?

I think the surge of Artificial Intelligence is a big concern because it automatically proves to be detrimental to creativity. People now rely heavily on it and abuse its use in a very disheartening manner. However, it’s important as a creative to evolve above this and find a way to be a force to reckon with in the industry. One has to be different and you will be relevant

What role do you believe internships or part-time jobs played in your overall education? How did they contribute to your growth and understanding of your chosen field?

Internship is a major factor that its relevance can’t be overemphasised. The training gives a foundation to prepare journalists for what to come in the real world after graduation. I had my internship in a radio station and I was able to work in the production department and appear on air frequently. I learnt a few ropes about how things are done in the broadcasting world. It was a good training period.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next three to five years? How do you plan to work toward achieving those goals?

I want to further my education to the highest level possible and become so resourceful in this chosen field. I want to be a sport journalist or a lecturer as a contingency.

You have once studied at a polytechnic before moving to the university. Can you compare the two educational systems, exploring their strengths, weaknesses and how they prepare students for the future?

Both systems are very distinct honestly. The polytechnic gives room for more practice than the university. However, the competition in the university system is very high and we have more students in the frantic race to attain academic excellence. My initial polytechnic education proved to be very instrumental when I gained admission into the university as there are similarities in courses albeit few differences.I urge the government to end the gap between HND and B.Sc in order to make those with polytechnic certificates feel more appreciated.

Tell us what you think can be done to guide undergraduates and admissions seekers.

I believe nothing is achieved on a silver platter, every achievement needs sacrifice and perseverance. It won’t be easy but belief in God and working towards the goal will make your dreams a reality .