BEING A DYNAMIC STUDENT IN UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN

 

It is a month since the strike was called off - lectures, tests, assignments, presentations, and different Shege here and there. So, how has school been treating you? Many had to resign from work; resumption disrupted a lot of plans. For a certificate that does not completely define you, is it really worth it?

Education, they say, is the best Legacy. There was a time I found this difficult to understand. Now, when I think about it, I guess what matters most is our definition of education. Be it formal, informal, or semi-formal, what you do with it is your Legacy. 

Like the common quote, "It is not how far, but how well". Making the best of your time in school should be prioritized. Going to classes; doing assignments, tests, reports, and projects for 4+x years and just graduating is good but have you really done enough?

The journey as an undergraduate is surely a long one and its significance cannot be overemphasized. I will like to make your journey an enjoyable one despite the shege you are likely to see in this First and Best University. If you are a fresher, you would certainly enjoy this piece but even if you are a stallite, it is not too late. 

The first thing that gives you an edge is being open-minded.  Open-mindedness does you a lot more than you think.  Regardless of the course you chose or were given, do not let it define you. We cannot rule out the fact that some courses will be rated above others. The moment you accept that admission, the next thing is to know what to do with it.

Students hail from different family backgrounds, and belief systems, and have different perspectives on life; this does not rule out benefiting from one another despite the differences. Learn from anyone you can learn from. Definitely, not everyone will make a living out of their course of study in school but learn more about your course and its carrier opportunities. 

Find your niche and work towards it. So many students find it difficult to identify what they want out of school. It does take time to recognize this but it is worth it. Identify your values, know what resonates with you, and recognize what gives you a sense of achievement - only then can you know what your dreams are.

Setting goals is important but people often overlook this. Not only does this help your studies, but it also aids self-reflection. Have a timetable if possible and strictly follow it.

For the "I just want the certificate" category, develop your skills. Market your products and services to your target customers, but do not go against the rules of the University. Build the correct circle for yourself and create a balance between studies and business. 

For the "academic gurus", know that not everything will be taught in class. Take online courses, get certified in the field that aids your course of study, seek internship opportunities, attend seminars, and start building your Curriculum Vitae today. It is never too early. Get schooled while schooling.

Finally, joining campus organizations does not only build your capacity as a fellow, it is an avenue to start serving. Giving back to the society is one way of leaving a footprint. Join organizations that vocalize your values. Your studentship should not be a boring one after all.