How I Made First Class in UNILAG -Okinedo

Six years after graduating from Radiance High
School , FESTAC Town, Lagos, Miss Okinedo
Elizabeth returned recently to her alma mater with a
testimony of success . She bagged First Class degree
in Cell Biology and Genetics from the University of
Lagos ( UNILAG ) , Akoka . The 24- year -old lady won
the guest speaker ’ s slot at this year ’ s graduation
ceremony of her alma mater ( Radiance School ) ,
where she shared the secrets of her academic
success .

Speaking on the topic , Soar Like an Eagle , Okinedo
recalled her early years in Radiance School , where
she graduated among the top students in 2010 . She
told Campus Sun that she had wanted to study
Medicine and Surgery as her first choice but couldn ’t
scale the rigorous admission process . She opted for
a foundation programme in the university , with the
intention of going into her dream course .
Sadly, Okinedo ’ s hope of becoming a medical doctor
crashed when she found her name on the admission
list of the department of Cell Biology and Genetics.
Undeterred by the setback , she embraced the
programme , studied diligently and graduated in First
Class division.
On the secrets of her success , she said : “ As far as
hardwork was important , there are other factors that
are crucial for success . You should know what you
want. I actually wanted to study Medicine and
Surgery but I ended up getting admission to study
Cell Biology and Genetics. It was my interest in the
medical sciences that actually prompted my
success . When I was admitted, I focused on the
course . I developed interest not because the courses
were really interesting, but I loved what I was doing .
For one to be successful, one must have love for
what one is doing , ” she said .
Okinedo urged the graduating students to have a
clear vision of what they want in life and work
towards it . “ Do not allow the present economic
recession to discourage you. Renew your strength
like an eagle. Always strive to be the best at all
times ” , she said .
Aside Okinedo , Radiance School also celebrated
other outstanding alumni, including, Opara Miracle,
who also bagged First Class in Accounting at the
Covenant University , Otta , Ogun State.
While commending the students’ outstanding
performance, the Chairman of Radiance Schools , Dr
Chris Menkiti , urged them to live as worthy
ambassadors of the school and carve a niche for
themselves in a world full of opportunities.
“ The future is bright . Many possibilities exist for you.
Be bold and courageous in how you tackle them,
being cognisant of the values that the school has
imparted on you. ”
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the school,
Dr Max Menkiti , said the school had become a
springboard for young ladies and gentlemen ,
equipped with practical knowledge and bold spirit to
conquer the world . He said the graduating class had
been instructed and well prepared, and urged them to
invest the knowledge and values acquired in the
school in their chosen careers.
The Principal , Mrs Edith Okonkwo , urged the
graduating students to imitate their predecessors,
with shining academic records in their chosen
careers. In attendance at the graduation ceremony
were the Proprietress of the school, Mrs Ethel
Ifeyinwa Menkiti , members of the Board of Director,
Prof Gbabe Sote , his wife , Prof Sote, the PTA
Chairman, Onoyima F. F , among other dignitaries.