Beauty Enyo-Ojo is a first-class graduate of the Federal University, Lokoja, in Kogi State. In this interview with IBRAHIM OBANSA, she recounts her remarkable journey from trekking to lectures and relying on borrowed phones to graduating with First-Class Honours in Economics as the Overall Best Graduating Student, offering an inspiring message of resilience, discipline, and faith.
Can you take us back to the beginning of your journey at the Federal University Lokoja? When did you gain admission, and what was that period like for you?
I gained admission into the Federal University Lokoja in 2019. It was the beginning of a new chapter in my life, but it also came with its own challenges.
What were some of the major challenges you faced when you started your university journey?
When I entered the Federal University Lokoja, life was very difficult. I came from a poor background and did not even have an Android phone, which was very important for accessing academic materials. I also faced serious financial challenges, trekked long distances to lectures, and sometimes struggled to afford regular meals. Despite these difficulties, I made up my mind that my circumstances would not determine my future.
You mentioned that you did not have an Android phone at the time, despite the fact that many academic materials were available online. How were you able to cope with this challenge?
It was not easy. I practically made the university library my second home. I spent several hours there studying and carrying out research. Whenever I needed internet access or online materials, a friend would kindly lend me a phone. I made the most of every available opportunity instead of complaining about what I lacked.
Looking back on your academic journey, the challenges you overcame, and the dedication it took to reach this milestone, how does it feel to emerge as the Overall Best Graduating Student of the Federal University Lokoja?
Thank you very much. It is an overwhelming feeling of gratitude. Looking back at where I started and the many challenges I encountered along the way, I can only give thanks to God. This achievement is a testament to the fact that hard work, discipline, consistency, and faith can help one overcome even the toughest circumstances.
After all the sacrifices, struggles, and challenges you encountered throughout your university journey, did they eventually pay off? What did you graduate with?
It truly did pay off. Today, to the glory of God, I can proudly say that I graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Economics.
You started your academic journey on a remarkable note, finishing your first semester with a perfect 5.00 GPA. What would you identify as the key factors responsible for maintaining such outstanding academic performance?
I refused to allow my circumstances to define my academic performance. I remained disciplined, focused, and committed to my studies. I developed a strong belief that excellence was possible regardless of my situation, and I consistently put in the hard work required to achieve my goals.
