Interview with Babatunde Olayinka, Faculty of Arts Best Graduating Student 

Opemipo Olukoga 

Last Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, the university admitted over 6500+ graduands into first degree programs. The Faculty of Arts  recorded over 50+ first class students and Babatunde Olayinka emerged the overall best graduating student of the faculty for the 2023/2024 academic year.

In an interview with AFAS Press, Babatunde shared his joy of becoming the top student, the challenges he overcame, and strategies for balancing academic excellence with extracurricular activities.

Who is Babatunde Olayinka? Introduce yourself, please.

I am a recent graduate of the Department of Linguistics and African Languages, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University of Ibadan. I hail from Ogbomoso.

What does it take to emerge the Best Graduating Student of the Faculty (or department), and how did you achieve this feat despite the competition in the University of Ibadan?

It takes an enormous amount of dedication and perseverance to achieve such a feat. Honestly, I didn’t see this coming; I was just doing what I considered my “normal routine.”

What CGPA did you graduate with, and how many other awards did you win during your convocation?

I haven’t obtained my transcript yet, but according to the Order of Proceedings Book, I graduated with a CGPA of 3.85/4.0. I won three awards.

How did you manage your reading schedule as an undergraduate ? What specific difficulties or setbacks did you experience?

I wouldn’t say I “managed” a schedule; instead, I worked with my body clock. I studied when it was most convenient for me. As for difficulties, there were plenty. One significant challenge was having to sponsor myself from my third year (the toughest year in Arts) when my dad fell sick. But despite it all, I emerged victorious.

What do you believe helped you maintain a first-class grade since 100 level? Did your CGPA ever drop? How did you encourage yourself to keep striving?

I live by a simple philosophy: give your best to whatever you do. I firmly believe in the saying, “Whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well.” I approached every task, position, or challenge with that mindset. I should mention that I am a fast learner too. I understand complex concepts faster and better than most people.

Yes, my CGPA dropped a bit in 300 level when my dad became ill, and I had to take on financial responsibilities. It was a tough period, but I refused to give up. I learned to view difficult situations as challenges to overcome, and I constantly reminded myself that “It’s not over until it’s over.”

Did your dedication to academics ever affect your extracurricular activities? If not, how were you able to strike a balance?

It didn’t. I actively participated in department, faculty, and Students’ Union activities, especially from 300 level onward. I had some side hustle, and I also volunteered for NGOs.

Balancing everything required doing the right thing at the right time. If I had a lecture, I was in class. If there was a program at the department, faculty, or SU level, I was present. Striking that balance allowed me to enjoy my time at UI to the fullest.

What were your most memorable moments and worst moments as an undergraduate?

My memorable moments were when I impacted knowledge. I love sharing any new things I discover.  My worst moments occurred in the first semester of 300 level. That semester was challenging but also incredibly fulfilling. I remember going to a lecturer that I didn’t understand what was going on, and he told me that’s how 300L has always been. I cherished every bit of it though.

It’s been months since you graduated. Is there anything you miss about being a student of the University of Ibadan and the Faculty of Arts?

Absolutely! I miss the sense of belonging to such a vibrant and inspiring community. I miss the serenity of UI, the beauty of Faculty of Arts, the incredible souls I left behind at the faculty, the late night strolls to quiet places in UI, and I miss attending campus parties.

Your academic achievement serves as a source of inspiration. What advice would you give to students who want to graduate with good grades, just like you did?

Well, I shouldn’t undermine my talent, as said earlier, I am a fast learner. But then, a bright person without extra efforts is  bound to fail. So, first and foremost, understand yourself. Know what works for you and what doesn’t. Avoid following the crowd, and instead, focus on your strengths. Give your absolute best in everything you do. Lastly, let me give you this simple tip: shift your focus to 4pointing every course you take instead of trying to improve your CGPA. This way, your attention is directed towards the most important things you need to do, HERE and NOW.

Now that you’ve successfully completed your undergraduate degree, what’s next?

Thank you for the question. My next step is to further my education.