Temitope Ayeobasan, a 21-year-old who became the first to graduate with a first-class degree from Lagos State University’s (LASU) Department of History, recently shared in an interview how she achieved this milestone.
Recall that a few weeks ago, Intel Region in a well-explanatory content disclosed that Temitope Ayeobasan who is 21years old breaks 40-year record in Lagos State University (LASU) as she earns first class degree in history.
Sharing her remarkable academic journey with AYOOLA OLASUPO from Punch Newspaper, the 21yrs old LASU first-class History graduate was asked the question; What inspired you to pursue a degree in History?
Interestingly, studying History wasn’t part of my original plan. I initially aimed to study Law, but obstacles kept arising, so I enrolled in the Department of History as a temporary option while processing a transfer to Law. However, over time, I realized that Law wasn’t the right path for me and understood that there was a purpose for me in History. I believe this is why my plans for Law didn’t work out.
What kept you motivated throughout your studies?
Once I decided to continue with History, I promised myself I would stand out—though I wasn’t yet sure how. My motivation came from a mix of passion, ambition, and the steadfast support of my family and friends. I had many people I didn’t want to disappoint, and ultimately, I couldn’t let myself down either.
Was there a defining moment in your academic journey when you knew you could achieve a first-class degree?
This realization truly hit me in my first semester of 200-level, when I earned a GPA of 4.74 and a CGPA of 4.43. Seeing how close I was to achieving what many thought was impossible motivated me to strive for excellence and give it my all. In the end, I graduated with a CGPA of 4.50.
History is often seen as a challenging course. What study methods helped you excel in this field?
I consistently made personal notes after lectures, which I later expanded through detailed research. I also studied with friends, discussing materials together the night before exams. Most importantly, I prayed a lot because I firmly believe that nothing is achievable without prayer.
What were some of the most difficult challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?
I was fortunate not to face too many challenges, but a significant struggle was balancing my time between school, church, and extracurricular activities. Another challenge was managing multiple exams in a single day, as I often doubted myself, worrying that I might excel in one exam but fall short in another. Over time, I adjusted to these demands and learned to stay resilient.
Being the first person in 40 years to graduate with a first-class degree in History at LASU is a remarkable achievement. What do you believe made you stand out from your classmates?
Honestly, I don’t believe there was any specific trait that set me apart from my peers or those before me. I met incredibly talented and resilient people during my time in school, and I don’t think I did anything better than them. I would say I am simply a product of God’s grace. That said, my passion for History definitely played a role in my success.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on your academic success?
I owe so much to many people. My mom, especially, gave her all to ensure I had a comfortable life throughout university, allowing me to focus fully on my studies.
My family constantly supported me, and my lecturers—particularly Dr. Abiodun Balogun, who believed in me even when others didn’t—were invaluable. My Head of Department, Professor Olusegun Adeyeri, along with Dr. Bashir Animashaun, Professor Olawale Lawal, Mr. Wale Ajumobi, and Dr. Boge Faruq, all offered support and guidance whenever I needed it. Dr. Balogun, in particular, has been a mentor since my early days, always advising, guiding, and encouraging me. He played a key role in helping me achieve this milestone, never making me feel like I was asking too many questions and supporting me through any challenges.
What personal qualities do you think contributed to your academic success?
I’m a fast learner and can easily understand things when someone explains them to me. I also have a photographic memory, which often allows me to recall my notes word-for-word during exams.
How did you balance academic life with other aspects of student life, such as socialising, extracurricular activities, and personal growth?
While I was committed to excelling academically, I also made sure other areas of my life, especially church and extracurricular activities, didn’t suffer.
In my campus fellowship, I served as a two-time academic coordinator. I was also a member of the Rotaract Club of Lagos State University, where I held the role of Hope Public Image Chair, managing the club’s social media accounts and creating content. There were times when these activities clashed with my classes or other events, but I always found a way to balance them.
As the first person to achieve this feat in 40 years, how do you hope your accomplishment will inspire future students, especially women in academic fields traditionally dominated by men?
As the first person to graduate with a first-class degree in History at Lagos State University in 40 years, I hope my accomplishments serve as a source of inspiration for future students, particularly women. There’s a saying: “What a man can do, a woman can do better,” and I believe I have demonstrated that success is attainable regardless of the odds. I want my achievements to remind others that breaking through barriers is possible, and I hope to advocate for the empowerment of every student—especially women—to follow their dreams, contribute to their fields, and leave a lasting impact.
What do you think your success says about the quality of education and opportunities at Lagos State University?
Achieving the first-ever first-class degree in History at Lagos State University, 40 years after its establishment, reflects the quality of education and the extensive opportunities the institution provides its students. This milestone underscores a commitment to academic excellence and an environment that empowers students to maximize their potential. Over the past 40 years, LASU has evolved into a robust academic institution, and this accomplishment highlights the university’s progress in infrastructure and staff development, which together foster academic excellence.
Moreover, this success is not just personal; it embodies the shared vision of the university’s current leadership, evident in a culture of mentoring, innovative teaching, and research practices, as well as the numerous student-centered opportunities LASU is known for. Under the leadership of the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the university is nurturing a new generation of academics and students committed to advancing both the institution and society at large. This achievement is a testament to LASU’s dedication to academic excellence.
Now that you’ve graduated with such an outstanding result, what are your plans for the future?
I am considering furthering my studies, but I understand that while I can make plans, it is ultimately up to God. I didn’t initially plan to study History, yet here I am.
What advice would you give to younger students, especially those studying History and aspiring for academic excellence?
I would advise them to put God first, and everything else will fall into place. They should keep their eyes on the prize because it’s not the journey that matters, but the destination. Staying focused and avoiding distractions is crucial. Many students enter university intending to graduate with excellent results, but the rigors and activities of campus life can often lead them off course. Determination is key to achieving success.
If you could go back and give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace curiosity and not fear exploring different paths. I would encourage myself to take chances, stay open-minded, and trust the process.