Umar Victory; 400L; Community Health Science

Q1: Can you tell me your story of how you came to BMU?

A. Honestly, it was quite unexpected. I was at home when I heard BMU was still admitting students. I applied, and they asked me to choose from a list of courses since Medicine was already full. I picked Community Health Science not because I initially liked it, but because it looked easy. Over time, I began to appreciate it as an opportunity to connect with brilliant minds and grow.

Q2: What’s the hardest academic moment you’ve faced this semester, and were there times you cried?

A. There were many, but the toughest was when I had a test on a topic that wasn't properly taught. I completely broke down. Yes, I cried.

Q3: How did you feel transitioning from 100 to 200 level?

A. It felt like a dream. I didn’t even realize I was truly in school until my 200-level first semester exams. Before then, school was just a place to pass time and sell things. But when the exams came, reality hit me. I finally realized this was serious business. That was also when I began to genuinely love my course.

Q4: How do you define failure and success as a student?

A. To me, true success among students is rare. Success should come with some level of recognition; academic excellence that stands out. I see success as having consistent A’s and near-perfect results.

Failure, on the other hand, isn’t truly failure; it’s a chance to try again. I’ve had courses I passed but felt I could’ve done better if given another chance.

Q5: Have you ever made any mistake as a student that taught you a deep lesson?

A. A lot. In 100 level, I wasn’t mentally prepared for school. I had struggled for admission and lost motivation. That lack of focus affected my grades badly. But I learned a major lesson; your 100 level is your foundation. It’s the easiest time to raise your CGPA, so take it seriously.

Q6: What do people often misunderstand about your course?

A. People think Community Health means going to the village to treat people and some students even feel insulted by that. But that’s actually part of our calling: serving underserved communities. However, the course has evolved. Today, community health practitioners can work in tertiary hospitals, schools, and primary healthcare centers. It’s far beyond what people think.

Q7: What’s the difference between Community Health and Public Health?

A. Public Health focuses on population-level awareness and global health strategies. Community Health, on the other hand, deals directly with people . We’re licensed to treat. We both work hand in hand, but our scopes are different.

Q8: Is there any deity you believe in and why?

A. Yes, I believe in God. He’s come through for me several times, even when I wasn’t exactly faithful. So, believing in Him isn’t just a religion, it’s my reality.

Q9: Do you think religion plays a role in academics?

A. Yes, it does. Even though prayer doesn’t replace reading, as a Christian, I’ve seen how God’s mercy can favor you in surprising ways. There are times I didn’t prepare well, but grace still showed up. So, I’d say "pray and read".

Q10: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

A. In the next 10 years, I see myself owning at least two premium perfume stores; places that radiate excellence, luxury, and vision.

Q11: What inspired your business, and what keeps you going?

A. It started as a distraction while waiting for admission. I sold shoes at first, then switched to perfumes because I found the subject fascinating. My motivation now is passion. I love seeing people feel confident and happy after using my recommendations. That joy keeps me going.

Q12: Have you ever received a bad review, and how did you handle it?

A. Yes, twice. The first was when a client disliked a perfume I recommended. I realized it was my fault. I didn’t ask about her fragrance preferences. I apologized, learned from it, and made it up to her.

Q13: What’s your opinion about romantic relationships in school?

A: I think it depends on the individual. Relationships affect your emotional and mental health; two things crucial for studying. If you can balance both, go ahead. But if you can’t, focus on yourself and your purpose first.

Q15: Do you wish to find your “Mr. Right” here in BMU?

A: I don’t know. I’m just here, going with the flow.

Q16: Has anyone significantly shaped your academic journey in BMU?

A. Yes, two people have really influenced me. They helped me see more purpose in what I’m doing but I’ll keep their names private.

Q17: What’s the biggest struggle balancing academics and business?

A. I wouldn’t call it a struggle because I get fulfillment from my work. But truthfully, there’s no balance. One side always suffers, and for me, academics take the hit sometimes. My business is my passion, it often comes first.