Don’t Be Afraid To Dream Big, OAU Pharmacy Best Graduating Student Shares Experience As An Undergraduate

With a Grade Index of 4.72 from Nigeria’s Premier Pharmacy School, Lawal Omolola Blessing emerged as the best graduating student of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University for the 2021/2022 academic session.

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The announcement was made by the Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, Prof. F.A. Oladimeji, at the Induction Ceremony of the 2021/2022 Pharmacy graduating set which was part of the activities for the 60th Anniversary Celebration of the faculty that held on Thursday, 5th of October, 2023 in Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University campus.

In an interview with ACJOAU Correspondent, Omolola narrates her academic journey, how she achieved this feat and her plans for the future.

Who is Lawal Omolola Blessing?

I am a newly inducted pharmacist from the premier faculty of pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. I am from Iwo, Osun State from a family of 5. Unfortunately I lost my father 8 years ago. I am the last of three children. I am also a budding data scientist and a Python developer with few years of experience.

With a Grade Index of 4.72, you emerged as the 2022 best graduating student of the faculty of Pharmacy. How was this possible? What was your secret?

I prioritized my studies and remain focused on achieving my goals throughout my time in the Faculty of Pharmacy.

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Why did you choose to study Pharmacy?

I had so much passion for the healthcare sector and I can’t deal with blood and needles. Also my late dad worked as a chemist during his holiday breaks in his undergraduate days so he knows a lot about drugs and it’s something I grew up being fascinated with. Part of the reason I chose Pharmacy was because I know it’s a profession he’d be very proud of.

Would you say you knew you were going to be the best graduating student?

I didn’t know but I knew I was a contender since my part 3.

At what point did you start making conscious efforts to make sure you graduate with excellent grades?

Since I gained admission, I made sure I put in my best efforts in my academics. I believe anything worth doing at all is worth doing well.

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How did you feel when you were informed that you were the faculty’s best graduating student and what was the feeling like when the Dean announced your name alongside your Grade Index at Induction Ceremony?

When I learnt I was the best graduating student, it was a mix of emotions, but mainly gratitude and a deep sense of accomplishment. During the induction ceremony, it was a moment of immense joy and validation, not just for me because all my hard work paid off but for all those who had supported and believed in me throughout my academic journey.

Would you say your choice of friends influenced your grades in any way, and how?

Yes, actually. My friends were a great influence, we were all focused on our academics and we encourage one another to give it our best. We support each other.

What were your most fun moments as an undergraduate?

Some of my fun moments as an undergraduate were hanging out with my friends, going for events, but most especially participating in my FYB activities.

Were you in a relationship in school or did you turn down offers just to focus on your academic work?

I wasn’t until my final year.

Tell us a little bit about your family background, primary and secondary education.

My parents are both from Osun State. My mother is a civil servant and my father was an Engineer and an alumnus of this University.

I started my primary school education in 2005 at Ebenezer Baptist Group of Schools, Iwo and went on to complete my secondary school education at this same school.

I was the Assistant Senior Girl in my primary school and was the Class Monitor throughout my secondary school and also Office Prefect Girl for two years before I was made the Senior Prefect Girl in my final year. I graduated from secondary school in the year 2016, upon completion of my WASSCE examinations.

Aside from Pharmacy, what else do you do or enjoy doing?

Like I mentioned earlier, I am working on becoming a professional data scientist with the hope of utilizing my skills in the evolving pharmaceutical sector.

I enjoy listening to music, traveling to new places, watching movies and documentaries and reading novels.

Did you have mentors?

Yes, a few. I’ll say my late dad, my brother-in-law and my part adviser in pharmacy school, Dr. Jegede.

With a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree and also the best graduating student of your class, what do you plan on delving into?

I plan on going for my Master’s degree and then pursuing a career in Clinical Pharmacy or Research.

What advice would you give to students who want to achieve great academic excellence like you?

Don’t be afraid to dream big and go after your goals. Also learn to prioritize working towards it, and always pray to God to direct you and make it easier for you.