With a Grade Index of 4.72 from Nigeria's Premier Pharmacy School, Lawal Omolola Blessing emerged best graduating student of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University for the 2021/2022 academic session.
This was disclosed 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.
In this interview with Tribune CampusXtra, Omolola speaks on her background, academic journey, and how she achieved this feat.
Can you introduce yourself?
I'm 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 easy was it to attain his feat?
I prioritise my studies and remain focused on achieving my goals throughout my time in the Faculty of Pharmacy.
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? Also, at what point did you start making conscious efforts ?
I didn't know but I knew I was a contender since my part 3.
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.
How did you feel getting to know you're best graduating student?
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 encouraged one another to give it our best. We supported 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? And can you share with us about your background?
I wasn't (relationship) until my final year.
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.
What else do you do whenever it's not Pharmacy?
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.
Who was your motivation? Did you have any mentor(s)?
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 in the bag and as best graduating student of your class; what next?
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 willing 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.
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