On December 10th, during the induction of the second set of graduates produced by the Nursing Science Department, Olabisi Onabanjo University, the Best Graduating Student (BGS) was announced. This amazing student has a CGPA of 4.73, the highest in the history of the department!
Here’s the awaited interview with the BGS, Onowojo Lois Okieoghene (RN, RM, RPHN, BNSC).
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Onowojo Lois Okieoghene. I’m a graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University, a Registered Nurse (RN), a Registered Midwife (RM), and a Registered Public health Nurse (RPHN). I graduated with a First class honors (4.73 CGPA)
What inspired you to pursue Nursing science in this great institution?
Honestly, I wanted to study medicine but when I did not secure admission and was given admission to study Anatomy, it only reinforced my determination to study Nursing since it was closely related to Medicine… thankfully I was given admission the following year (2019) and I’ll say that I never regretted the decision I took
How does it feel to be recognized as the best graduating students in the nursing department?
It’s overwhelming! I feel honored to be recognized as the Best graduating student in Nursing Department
Did you face any significant challenges during your studies, and how did you overcome them?
There were many challenges. It definitely wasn’t an easy ride, but as for ‘significant’ challenges, there are none that I know of.
Nursing school is known to be rigorous. What motivated you to strive for excellence despite the challenges?
I always wanted to make my loved ones proud and that alone was enough motivation for me
Can you describe the study routine and techniques that worked best for you?
I wasn’t a ‘night owl’, I enjoyed reading during the day and having to sleep at night but when exams were around the corner, I read at night. But like I said, I did not fancy reading at night, so I’d always go to school for night reading or go to some friend’s place to read together. That helped me to ward off sleep. I also read at the library a lot…me and library, 5&6 😂😂
What was your least favorite course and why?
My least favorite course(s) were the two courses introduced while in 200 level. We were told that we should have had them in 100 level, but since we were in 200 level, we had no choice but to take them. Having to combine those two courses with the 11 courses we had in 200 level first semester made me dislike them. They were CMP 101 and POL 101 🤦🤦
What was your favorite course and why?
courses in general were my favorites.
I’m not sure I’ll pick one over the other
Are there any nursing specializations you plan to pursue?
The specialty with the highest pay 😂😂
Were you involved in any extracurricular activities?
Was a member of the OOU Nursing Literary and Debate Club. I participated in the Quiz competition at Babcock’s Nursing Induction and came as the first runner-up
Who or what has been your greatest source of support and inspiration in achieving this success?
My Mom and brother (Onowojo Zeal) as well as Orishawo Hector were my greatest source of support and inspiration. Their tireless efforts were more than helpful. I could not wait to make them proud
What skills did you gain outside the classroom that helped you succeed academically?
Was too busy inside the classroom that I had no chance for outside classroom skills
How did clinical experience shape your perspective on patient care and nursing practice
My clinical experiences were pivotal in shaping my perspective on patient care and Nursing practice. I moved from being a novice to a confident Nurse, from theoretical to practical understanding and I learnt how to be more empathetic and compassionate
What advice would you give to nursing students who aspire to excel academically and clinically
Stay organized, develop a study routine that works best for you, seek help when needed, stay calm even under pressure, and always prioritize self-care
How do you think students can effectively manage the stress and demands of nursing school ?
Although the stress and demands in Nursing school are inevitable, but it is possible to get by if you take one day at a time!
Who and what were you most grateful for during school?
Everyone who was involved in one way or the other helped me achieve this great milestone. But my heartfelt appreciation goes to Jehovah God who brought me thus far!