Miss Ifeoluwa Mercy Adeyemi, Wesley University’s overall best graduating student for the 2023/2024 academic session, has shared how her choice to avoid romantic relationships throughout her university years significantly contributed to her remarkable academic success.
Speaking during the university’s 13th convocation ceremony held in Ondo Town, Ondo State, the 19-year-old graduate of Microbiology revealed that she deliberately decided against having a boyfriend during her studies to remain fully focused on her academic goals.
This decision, she said, played a vital role in her achieving an exceptional Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.97, the highest in her graduating class.
“Well, I had actually discussed this matter with several other people, and they told me that it depends on your own perspective,” Adeyemi explained.
“But for me, I see it as a distraction because I cannot divide my mind. A boyfriend might be demanding my attention, which would prevent me from putting my total effort into my books.”
Adeyemi emphasized that her primary motivation was to make her parents proud and to justify the sacrifices they made for her education.
She said, “At first, I have parents that I cannot disappoint. So this is one thing that keeps coming to my mind. Anytime I found distractions, I would remind myself: your parents are out there, and you need to make them proud.”
Although she had chosen not to engage in romantic relationships during her undergraduate studies, Adeyemi acknowledged that she remains open to the idea at the right time.
“I had no intention of having a boyfriend for now,” she said, “but at the right time, it’s fine.”
Driven by Ambition and Purpose
In addition to her academic dedication, Adeyemi expressed her passion for making a significant impact in the health sector. She described her long-term aspirations, saying, “I want to solve problems in this world, especially in the health sector. And I have to put more effort into understanding this course, Microbiology, because it deals with microorganisms, which are central to diseases and health. So I need to focus on it and make my parents proud.”
Looking ahead, she plans to further her education by pursuing a Master’s degree and eventually a Ph.D., with the ultimate goal of becoming a researcher and contributing to global health advancements.
A Day of Celebration and Recognition
Wesley University’s 13th convocation ceremony celebrated the achievements of 230 graduating students, 39 of whom earned First Class Honours. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Samuel Obeka, commended the students for their hard work and perseverance, noting that the institution remains committed to fostering excellence through holistic education.
The event was graced by dignitaries, including the Chancellor, Senior Pastor Paul Enenche, who awarded ₦100,000 to each First Class graduate.
In his address, Pastor Enenche encouraged the graduates to embrace their roles as change-makers in society and to view their academic success as the foundation for greater achievements.
Olori Comfort Kiladejo, wife of the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, was also honored with an honorary degree in Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Service for her contributions to society.
Adeyemi’s story of discipline and determination has inspired many, underscoring the power of focus and prioritizing long-term goals over temporary distractions.
Her journey serves as a reminder to students everywhere that success often requires sacrifices and a clear sense of purpose.