FUOYE's Top Graduate with 4.89 CGPA Reveals How She Missed Medicine Admission
Maryam Adeniyi, the best graduating student of Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), has shared her compelling story of academic triumph and a missed opportunity to study medicine. Graduating with an impressive cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.89 from the Department of Anatomy, the 20-year-old from Osun State opened up in an exclusive interview about her admission journey, university experience, and future goals.
Early Academic Journey and WAEC Success
Maryam, who grew up in Niger State, always aspired to study medicine. She recounted her early academic achievements, noting that she took her Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) in SS2 and passed on her first attempt with 2 As and 7 Bs. She attributed this success to attending WAEC preparatory lessons from the start of the academic session, which she believes significantly contributed to her outcomes.
JAMB Setback and Shift to Anatomy
However, her Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) experience presented a challenge. Initially aiming for Medicine and Surgery, Maryam scored 232, which did not meet the required cut-off mark at the time. She decided to wait another year to prepare more rigorously. During this period, FUOYE introduced the Anatomy program and began processing admissions for the 2020/2021 session. Her mother discovered this information online and encouraged her to apply. The initial plan was to study Anatomy as a stepping stone for Direct Entry into an MBBS program later. Maryam eventually changed her choice of institution and course, gaining admission through a transparent process without needing to consult anyone.
University Experience and Academic Excellence
Reflecting on her time at FUOYE, Maryam described her undergraduate days as a splendid journey. As someone new to campus life, she embraced the experience without fixed expectations, finding that the academic environment, exposure, and opportunities positively contributed to her growth. To excel academically, she developed a strong reading culture, going beyond lecturers' materials to study recommended textbooks for deeper insights. Punctuality was also crucial; she attended every class, practical, group work, and academic activity. Additionally, she held leadership roles, serving as Class Representative in 400 level, Team Lead for her project group, and in various positions within her departmental association, while also tutoring students in her faculty.
Balancing Leadership and Academics
Maryam emphasized that balancing these responsibilities with her studies required discipline and effective time management. She prioritized academic work by staying organized, attending classes regularly, and meeting deadlines, using free periods to handle leadership and tutoring duties to ensure neither area suffered.
Future Aspirations in Medicine
Despite her success in Anatomy, Maryam still plans to pursue Medicine and Surgery, viewing her current degree as a solid foundation for her medical career. She expressed a growing passion for gynaecology and female reproductive health, hoping to explore this specialty as she advances. She also intends to seek international opportunities to further her medical education, believing exposure to global systems will broaden her knowledge and competence.
Inspiration for Others
Maryam's story serves as an inspiration to students facing academic challenges or missed opportunities. Her dedication, strategic study habits, and resilience highlight how perseverance can lead to outstanding achievements. As she looks forward to a future in medicine, her journey underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in achieving one's dreams.
