Stample Tarimobowei; Graduate of Biochemistry; BMU

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

A: I actually got to know about BMU through my dad. At first, I gained admission into Niger Delta University (NDU) to study Medicine, but I was given Pure and Applied Chemistry instead. I accepted it, hoping to switch to Medicine by 200 level.

One day while passing Engbe Road, I noticed a signpost that read “Bayelsa Medical University”. I didn’t take it seriously because I thought it was just one of those abandoned government projects. Later, my dad came home and said I was going to BMU — I was surprised it was actually functional!

So I applied immediately, hoping to get Medicine. Unfortunately, the Medicine program hadn’t started; they only had a pre-med program. I enrolled, completed pre-med, and was advised to choose from the accredited courses like Biochemistry, Human Anatomy, Physiology, or Microbiology. I chose Biochemistry, hoping that by 200 level, Medicine would be accredited.

By the time approval came for Medicine, I was already in 400 level. Going back to 200 level didn’t make sense anymore, so I decided to finish my Biochemistry degree. And that’s how I graduated as a Biochemist.

Q2: Would you still like to study Medicine?

A: Yes, I would love to, but now I have more options. I could pursue a Master’s degree, go into Nursing, or still return for Medicine. I’m open to where life leads next.

Q3: What do you think is the biggest misconception lecturers have about students?

A: Many lecturers assume only the “most intelligent” students can pass or succeed. But I’ve seen brilliant students fail and average students excel. Success in school isn’t just about raw intelligence; sometimes it’s about consistency and grace.

Q4: What do people misunderstand most about your course?

A: Most people think Biochemistry graduates only end up teaching or that there are no job opportunities. That’s not true. Biochemistry is broad — it connects to medicine, pharmacy, food science, and even research. It’s just that in Nigeria, opportunities aren’t always visible, so people underestimate the course.

Q5: What was the hardest academic moment you've faced as a student?

A: Biochemistry will test your tears and patience. It’s tough — even medical and nursing students can testify to that.

There was a particular course, Advanced Entomology, that really broke me. I studied hard, wrote exactly what I prepared, and still failed while my reading partners passed. I didn’t cry, but I definitely teared up. That experience taught me humility and resilience.

Q6: How do you define success and failure as a student?

A: Success is achieving what you set out to achieve. For me, I aimed for a First Class, but I told myself that even if I graduated with a Second Class Upper, it would still be success — and I did.

Failure isn’t about having a carryover or getting an F. It’s about staying down after falling. As long as you learn from your mistakes and bounce back, you haven’t failed.

Q7: Have you ever made any mistake as a student that's taught you a deep lesson?

A: Yes, several. One major mistake was not taking my studies seriously during pre-med. I was too relaxed, and it affected my result. I also associated with the wrong friends at first — people who didn’t really value academics.

When I got to 100 level, I changed my circle. I started moving with serious-minded students like Victor Aya, Clinton Ebilade, Dudu Tari, David Wonsu, and Omolara, my reading partner. They pushed me academically and spiritually, and that changed everything for me.

Q8: You mentioned God earlier. Why do you believe in God?

A: My existence alone is proof of God. There were times I struggled financially, mentally, and academically, but God always showed up. Man can fail you, but God never did — and that’s why I believe in Him.

Q9: If given the chance, what would you change about Nigeria’s educational system?

A: A lot needs fixing. Some lecturers lack the passion or skill for teaching — they’re intelligent but can’t communicate knowledge effectively. I’d make lecturer recruitment more selective.

Also, there should be more opportunities for industrial training (IT). It was difficult finding a placement because many labs in Bayelsa don’t accept biochemists. Government should also provide scholarships, learning facilities, and grants to motivate students. Education is losing value because many young people no longer see hope in it.

Q10: If you were the VC of BMU for one day, what would you do first?

A: I’d start with better hostel facilities — because what we currently call a hostel isn’t one. Then, I’d recruit more lecturers for departments that are understaffed.

I’d also push for course accreditation and fix the delay in NYSC mobilization. Many graduates wait too long after signing out, and it’s discouraging. These are issues I’d address immediately.

Q11: What’s your honest opinion about romantic relationships in school?

A: Relationships aren’t bad, but they require balance. If your CGPA is low, you shouldn’t be in one — you’ll only distract yourself.

However, if you’re stable academically and can manage your time, there’s nothing wrong with it. Some people met their life partners in school and still excelled. Personally, I was in a few relationships, and I noticed my grades dropped. When they ended, my grades improved. So, for me, academics first, relationship later.

Q12: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

A: Definitely not in Nigeria. I love my country, but I want to explore life elsewhere. I plan to build myself here first, then relocate to a place where I can thrive and live the life I’ve always dreamed of.

Career-wise, I plan to go back to school for Nursing — not Medicine this time. Ten years from now, I see myself as a practicing nurse abroad, making impact in the healthcare field.

Q13: What's one question you would have wanted me to ask you?

A: "What did I graduate with?"

Q14: What did you graduate with?

A: By God’s grace, I graduated with a Second Class Upper. I’m proud of it because it was part of the goal I set when I started this journey.