I would describe my time at OAU as an experience. I enjoyed it at first because everything was new and different. But it became difficult when my main goal there wasn’t going well. From my first semester, I carried over about three courses, which were heavy (3–4 units), and I failed most of my other courses too. Only my practical courses, which were small (1 unit), were As. By the end of my 100-level, I had about five carryovers, and my CGPA fell before it could improve.
I tried to recover in 200-level and retook the failed courses, but it was too late. I went below a 1.0 CGPA in two consecutive semesters, so I was advised to withdraw. I tried to transfer to the Economics Department, but my CGPA was too low for any department. At that point, I knew staying was pointless, so I called home and told my parents I was done.
Why did you choose Biochemistry at OAU?
I didn’t really choose it. I wanted Pharmacy, but I didn’t meet the cut-off. I accepted Biochemistry, planning to switch to Pharmacy after my 100-level, but it didn’t happen because I failed. I had always wanted to be a Pharmacist since SS1 because I loved the idea of working in health. I couldn’t handle Medicine or Nursing, so Pharmacy was my best choice.
When did you leave OAU?
I left when I realized there was no point staying. My CGPA was below 1.0, and my portal said withdrawal. I didn’t want to waste time or deceive myself. I knew stories of students who stayed and achieved nothing, so I decided it was better to go home and move forward. My parents didn’t know how bad it was until I called them.
How did you feel when advised to withdraw?
I was sad and disappointed. I had planned to finish school by 20 or 21. I worried about telling my parents because they had spent money to make my stay comfortable, renting a self-contained room for me. I felt ashamed leaving with nothing.
Why did you start failing?
I overestimated myself. I was confident because I had always been a bright student in secondary school and passed exams without much effort. At OAU, the students were smarter and understood concepts better. I was also timid and afraid to ask questions, which hurt me academically.
Do you see leaving OAU as a lesson?
Yes, it was an act of God. I was in the wrong course and environment to succeed. Leaving helped me see the bigger picture and realign my life. It felt like a punishment then, but now I understand it was necessary.
How did your parents react?
My father was worried I might hurt myself but was supportive. He came to Ife, helped me pack my things, and took me home. My mother was worried and disappointed but helped me enroll in baking school so I wouldn’t be idle. I started my baking business, BiziCakery.
What challenges did you face after leaving OAU?
The first challenge was shame. People knew I was in school, so I had to explain my absence. I said I was learning baking, which helped reduce questions. I also had to prove to my parents that I could still succeed.
Did you ever think of suicide?
No. I knew ending my life wasn’t an option, even during tough times.
How did you prepare for UTME after leaving OAU?
I focused on my strengths—Maths, English, and Economics. I attended tutorials, studied until 7 pm, and worked very hard. It paid off: I scored 290 in UTME and 25/30 in post-UTME.
Why choose Economics Education?
I focused on my strengths in social sciences and Maths. I couldn’t handle more science courses, so Education gave me opportunities for further studies in either Economics or Education.
How did OAU experience help at UNILAG?
It gave me experience with university life, so nothing shocked me. I had resilience, which helped me pace myself and handle challenges better than some classmates.
What did you do differently at UNILAG?
I asked questions, understood my learning style, and learned smarter, not harder. I also tutored others, which helped me retain knowledge. UNILAG offered more support, adviser access, and student programs, which I took advantage of.
How has the change in course and university affected you?
My regret is not knowing myself before OAU, but the lessons I learned outweigh the regrets. I gained experience, resilience, and a clearer path for my future.
