I have no specific study pattern; I study whenever I’m free —Crescent University best graduating student

23-year-old Miss Halimat Abdulsalam from the Department of Biochemistry, Crescent University, Abeokuta, did not only emerge the best graduating student at the institution’s 11th convocation, she set a record by scoring a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.93, the highest by any graduate of the institution since its inception in 2005. She spoke with LAOLU HAROLDS on her academic sojourn through the institution, and future plans.

Was there a particular reason you decided to study Biochemistry, and not medicine or pharmacy?

I didn’t specifically choose Biochemistry. I had always wanted to study Medicine or Pharmacy, but these courses were not available at Crescent University, which was what made me opt for Microbiology. I did Microbiology in my first year as I thought it was somewhat related to Medicine; but after my first year, I realised that I was actually more passionate about Biochemistry than microbiology. So, I changed my course to Biochemistry at the beginning of my second year, and I am really grateful I did.

Which was your best course from 100 Level to final year so far?

I would say molecular biology. I really love the course because it talks most about our existence, the basis of our existence and the transfer of traits from parents to children. In essence, the course is based on the reflection of our existence.

Did you have a favorite lecturer?

That is actually hard to say, because all my lecturers are great. However, I will like to say Dr Lateef Suleiman. He taught us series of courses from 200, 300 and 400. He was the one that actually taught us Molecular Biology. He relates with students with a very good pace and his classes are very interactive; he makes sure that everybody understands what he teaches; he makes sure that you understand the practical aspect as well.

I’m concerned no one is willing to be Sowore’s surety ― Judge

You made history at CUAB with your 4.93 CGPA. How easy was it achieving that? What did it cost you? Or, did it just happen?

It wasn’t all easy. It took a lot of dedication, hard work and determination; but most importantly, it’s all thanks to God, and the fact that I have a passion for the course made it easier.

How much of socialisation did you have, Crescent University being a faith-based institution? How did such ‘restriction’ affect or influence your academic progress?

Although there are lots of restrictions at Crescent University, I believe it’s all in the interest of the students. It helped me focus on my studies and gave me more time for research and assignments. By the way, the restriction isn’t 100 per cent as we have departmental weeks and the likes, and Crescent University being a faith-based school has never negatively affected students as there is no bias.

Tell us a little about your family. Did you have any background in the sciences? Apart from paying the fees, in what ways would you say your parents influenced your final results today?

I’m from a polygamous family with three children from my mother, an Islamic devoted and loving family. I have no other background in sciences apart from secondary school knowledge. My parents have always influenced my results positively, especially my final results. They supported me emotionally and were always concerned about my wellbeing. Knowing that I have people to lean on is a really great privilege.

In your valedictorian speech, you spoke of some tough times in your journey through CUAB, especially in terms of finance. Can you share this experience with us and how you eventually managed it?

I had some financial issues along the way, especially in my 100 and 200 levels. My parents couldn’t finance my tuition and they had to sell some of their properties to raise the fee. I’m glad I could make them proud.

Can you tell us what study pattern, what discipline worked for you through your course?

I don’t have a specific study pattern. I enjoy studying whenever I’m free.

Do you have any word for the government of Nigeria and the policy makers?

I think the education system needs to be reformed a bit to equip graduates. It shouldn’t be just theoretical aspect. They should introduce more of practical; most of the researches we conduct in our final year are only for theoretical uses. They don’t actually help us to carry out more of practical.

Also, I think more schools should be established in the rural areas to reduce the population of people in the cities. This will create job opportunities as unemployment rate in the country is alarming.

What would you say, from your experience, about Crescent University?

I think Crescent University Abeokuta is a university for today and the future. The products are excellent because of the facilities and calibre of lecturers available. I will encourage parents to enroll their children with the institution to improve them morally and educationally.

What do you plan to do next?

I would really love to further my studies, contribute my quota to the society and build a family.