A young Nigerian man identified as Paul Isu recently made himself proud after emerging as the best graduating student of his faculty at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA).
Isu, who bagged a first class degree in Civil Engineering, said the feat still remains a dream to him.
Speaking with Muse.ng, he expressed gratitude to God for his mercies and guidance throughout his academic journey.
He added that his academic feat is a call for greater responsibilities ahead of him.
How he did it
Isu said he was able to achieve the academic feat because he was discipline and he did the right things at the right time.
In his words: “I did the right things at the right time. Study for me was a necessity to be informed, not just for the grades. I think being inquisitive helped me a lot.
“Because, at most times, as Civil Engineering students, we needed to think outside the box. There, common sense helped!”
Isu had a social life in school
Despite immersing himself in his academics, the young man said he also made himself available for social events.
He said: “I don’t attend parties nor go clubbing. But social events like sports, quiz and talent nights, I don’t miss them.”
His distractions
Isu said he had no distraction while in school and that he won two awards for emerging as the best graduating student of his faculty.
In his words: “I really had no distraction. I had a responsibility, being a catechist of the Nigerian Federation of Catholic Students (NFCS), FUTMINNA chapter, for two years, gave me an edge over many, because it helped me plan well.
“Also, making sure I carried my colleagues and those of lower levels through tutorials along wasn’t a distraction as many will say. These were all the learning process.”
Next step for Isu
The young man said he’s hoping to proceed with his master’s degree.
In his words: “By the grace of God, I am hoping to proceed with Masters. Until then, I am open to work and scholarship offers.”
He advised students aspiring to graduate with first class to focus more on being better than they currently are and always commit their plans to God.
Isu added: “The focus shouldn’t be on grade, the focus should be on what they can offer in their field of study in and outside the school.”
