Akpovwovwo Oro; 300L; Medical Laboratory Science

Q1: How did you come to BMU?

A: Honestly, I didn’t have any university in mind at first. My mom suggested DELSU, while my dad insisted I pick BMU because it was closer to home. When I asked why, he simply said, “You’re not the one paying the fees.” I just agreed. Besides, the fact that there was no POST-UTME made the process much easier.

Q2: What’s the hardest academic moment you faced this semester, and did you cry?

A: I haven’t really had any tough academic experiences this semester. I learned from my mistakes last semester, so I started early this time. That helped me stay on track, and I had no reason to cry.

Q3: Have you ever failed as a student? If yes, what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from it?

A: I’ve never failed as a student. I don’t always meet my own expectations, but I’ve never experienced failure.

Q4: How do you define failure and success?

A: For me, success is setting your goals and achieving them. Failure, on the other hand, isn’t just about falling short—it’s when you accept defeat and refuse to learn from your mistakes.

Q5: Would you consider a carry-over student a failed student?

A: No, not at all. It depends on the circumstances.

Q6: Would you like to share mistakes you made last semester and what you’ve learned from them?

A: Transitioning into 200L was tough for me. In 100L, our exams were CBT, but suddenly they became handwritten, and I didn’t know how to approach answering the questions. On top of that, I resumed under unprepared circumstances. My dad only informed me at the last minute that I was returning, so I had no proper accommodation and wasn’t in the right frame of mind. The environment wasn’t favorable either.

I lagged behind, skipped classes without realizing how important attendance was, and started reading very late. Some courses, I only opened the night before the exam, while others I didn’t read at all. It was a huge eye-opener.

Q7: Is there any deity you believe in and why?

A: I believe in God because I’ve seen Him come through for me. I won’t ever force anyone to follow a religion, but I know what I’ve experienced. After SS3 until the end of 2023, I was at my lowest, and God spoke to me. He gave me comfort—sometimes through people, sometimes even through content I came across on social media. That’s why I’ll always believe in Him.

Q8: Do you think religion plays a role in academics? Would you say students’ results differ because of their religion?

A: No, I don’t think religion determines academic performance. Excellence comes from hard work. Even the God I believe in says we should work and not just fold our hands waiting for results. If I don’t play my part, how can I expect Him to play His? I’ve heard testimonies of people saying God revealed exam questions to them, but still, I wouldn’t say religion is the factor. Students from other religions also top their classes.

Q9: What’s your honest opinion about romantic relationships in school?

A: Before entering a relationship, you should first discover yourself—know what you want and build yourself. Relationships aren’t automatically distractions; it all depends on how you manage them. The right partner is supposed to add value to you. But if you don’t have boundaries, then you shouldn’t be in a relationship.

Q10: Would you say you can go into a relationship right now?

A: Yes, I think I can. I’ve thought about it, and with the lessons I’ve learned over the years, I feel more prepared.

Q11: Do you wish to see your Mr. Right in this university?

A: My Mr. Right can come from anywhere—it doesn’t have to be BMU.

Q12: Who instantly comes to mind when asked about someone who has majorly shaped your academic journey?

A: No one in particular. I study to show myself approved. My only competition is ensuring I can speak confidently when my mates are speaking.

Q13: What’s the biggest misconception you think lecturers have about students?

A: I think many lecturers assume that passing in school automatically means you’ll pass in life. But that’s not true. Life goes beyond the four walls of a classroom.