By Peace Oladipo
Odunewu Femi Stephen has made history as the first First Class graduate in the Mass Communication Department of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), Ekiti State.
Odunewu, who graduated in February, this year, revealed his journey towards achieving this feat. He said he began his 100-Level first semester with a 4.52 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), but dropped to 4.41. He ended his 200-Level with 4.40 and his 300-Level with 4.43.
However, in his 400-Level, he got 4.51, thus bagging a First Class.
Aside his academics, Odunewu was involved in student politics, serving as vice president of his department in his 200-Level. He was also a member of the student union of journalists until his final year. In addition, he was into video editing and photography.
When asked about his feelings about being the first First Class graduate in his department, he said he felt happy and blessed, giving all the glory to God. He said he was not the best but was privileged and attributed his success to God’s grace.
Aside from the school prize, Femi also won a monetary prize from the pioneer head of the department, Prof. Chika Asogwa.
When asked if he plans to work in the media, Femi stated that he was unsure at the moment, but his degree has prepared him well. He said his theoretical knowledge was different from practical knowledge, and the ability to use one’s knowledge to solve humanity’s problems is what matters most.
His advice to undergraduates is to put God first and take every class, assignment, test, and other academic work seriously. He emphasised the importance of consistent reading, adding that reading should be an everyday activity for any serious student. He also urged students not to be complacent about making progress and always strive to do better.
As for his plans for the future, he stated that he would pursue his Master’s degree immediately after his youth service, and let God lead him on to next path.