Emmanuel Goodness; Optometry

Q1: How did you get to know about BMU and how did you come here?

A: BMU was not my first choice. Initially, I searched for schools in Bayelsa because I didn’t want to go far from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and I also didn’t want to remain in PH for school. While checking online, I came across BMU, NDU, and FUO. I had already heard of NDU and FUO, but BMU was new to me. So, I made more research and even found someone I knew who was already here. That gave me more confidence, and that’s how I ended up choosing BMU.

Q2: The course you’re studying right now—would you say you’re doing it out of passion or purpose?

A: I’d say I’m doing Optometry out of passion. Though my first choice was Nursing, I didn’t get it, so I switched to Optometry. At first, it wasn’t what I had in mind, but I’ve grown to love it, and now I’m passionate about it. I’d say it’s about 90% passion and 10% purpose.

Q3: What was the hardest academic moment you faced this semester, and did you cry?

A: Yes, I cried after seeing my BIO 102 results. I wasn’t expecting the score I got, and it really broke me. But that experience motivated me to put in more effort, and it changed how I now approach my studies.

Q4: Have you ever made a mistake as a student? What major lesson did you learn from it?

A: I wouldn’t say I’ve made a very big mistake yet—at least nothing that taught me a life-changing lesson. I try to avoid mistakes that could affect my academic journey heavily.

Q5: How would you define failure and success? Do you consider a carryover student a failed student?

A: Failure for me is not necessarily about having a carryover. A student can have a carryover due to missing scripts or even issues from lecturers. It doesn’t mean the person is dumb or a failure. However, if someone consistently refuses to take academics seriously, that’s a different thing. To me, a carryover is just a challenge. If the person works harder and clears it, that’s not failure—it’s part of the learning process.

Q6: Do you believe in God and Why?

A: Yes, I strongly believe in God because I’ve experienced Him personally. I’ve seen things He has done in my life and felt His presence. Even when others doubt, I know He is real because of my experiences.

Q7: Do you think religion plays a role in academics? Do you think a student's academic result is influenced by his/her religion?

A: Honestly, I don’t think results differ based on religion. I’ve seen Muslims, atheists, and Christians all excel. What matters most is effort and determination. While Christians pray for help and Muslims pray in their own way, at the end of the day, your hard work is what counts.

Q8: What’s the greatest struggle you’ve ever faced as a student?

A: My biggest struggle was in my first semester when I was still trying to adjust. I cried during the first weeks because I didn’t know how I’d cope, mingle, or balance everything as a university student. Secondary school felt different—you had people guiding you. But in the university, you’re on your own. It was hard, but now I’ve adjusted better.

Q9: Would you say it’s God’s plan for you to be here?

A: Honestly, I don’t know. I originally wanted to attend another university, but along the line, I changed my mind. I convinced my parents, did more research, and finally settled on BMU. I believe God allowed it to work out this way, even if my reasons were personal.

Q10: Are there people you’ve met here that you consider God-sent?

A: Yes, especially in my first week. Some of the friends I made then are still very close to me now. They’ve really helped me and supported me.

Q11: Has BMU ever frustrated or annoyed you?

A: Yes, at times. But whenever I start complaining, I remind myself that this is the school I chose and prayed for. So instead of being frustrated, I try to see everything as part of the journey.

Q12: If you were the Vice-Chancellor for one day, what’s the first thing you would do?

A: I’d immediately organize a meeting with students to hear their real challenges, especially about hostels. Many of the hostels are overcrowded and need urgent attention. Even if I had just one day, I’d ensure some changes happen immediately, while planning for long-term improvements.

Q13: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

A: Honestly, I can’t say for certain. But I know I’ll keep growing, learning, and becoming better in whatever I set my hands to do.

Q14: What faults do you see in the Nigerian educational system that you would change instantly if given the opportunity?

A: One major problem is how exams are conducted. For example, during a CBT exam, lecturers were distributing attendance sheets while students were still writing. That was very distracting and unfair. Situations like that can affect students mentally. Lecturers should know better and allow students to focus during exams.

Q15: What’s the biggest misconception lecturers have about students?

A: Many lecturers assume that if you don’t attend every single class, then you’re unserious. That’s not always true—sometimes students have genuine reasons. Attendance doesn’t always equal seriousness.

Q16: Has anyone majorly shaped your academic journey here?

A: Yes. The free tutorials I attended last semester helped me a lot, and my friends also push me academically. Friends like Adaeze, Pere (from MBBS), Karen and my roommate--Precious, have really supported me.

Q17: What’s your honest opinion about relationships in school?

A: Personally, I think relationships can be a distraction, but it depends on the individual. Some people balance it well, while others struggle. For me, I’m still learning how to balance both. I’d say it’s partly a distraction but not entirely.

Q18: Do you wish to find your Mr. Right in BMU?

A: Well… maybe yes, maybe no. God will help me.

Q19: Are you interested in running for any student government position in the future?

A: No, I don’t think so. I don’t like the pressure that comes with leadership roles. But if I ever did, I’d want to be known as someone who truly listens to students’ complaints and ensures they are addressed quickly.