OAU First-Class Graduate Says She Studied Law to Fulfil Her Late Father’s Dream
Freedolyn Ani, a first-class Law graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) who later emerged as a joint best graduating student at the Nigerian Law School, has opened up about the determination, discipline, and family influence that shaped her academic success.
Speaking about her journey, Ani said she was raised in Akure, Ondo State, in a modest family where her father taught his children the values of contentment, discipline, and hard work. She said those lessons laid the foundation for her pursuit of academic excellence.
Ani revealed that studying Law was initially her late father’s dream. Although she wanted to pursue a degree in the arts, her father insisted that she either remain in the science class or study Law if she switched to the arts. She eventually agreed and discovered a genuine passion for the legal profession.
“I came to appreciate the role of the law in promoting justice, maintaining order, and driving positive change in society,” she said.
Long before gaining admission to OAU, Ani had set her sights on graduating with first-class honors. Her confidence grew after she emerged as the overall best student in the University’s pre-degree program.
OAU First-Class Graduate Says She Studied Law to Fulfil Her Late Father’s Dream
She maintained a disciplined study routine throughout her undergraduate years by attending lectures regularly and studying during the day, which she found more effective than late-night reading. Outside academics, she also volunteered in virtual initiatives supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Despite facing financial difficulties and moments of self-doubt, Ani remained focused on her goal. After significantly improving her CGPA in her first year, she became convinced that earning a first-class degree was achievable and worked consistently to maintain that standard.
Ani described informing her father that she had graduated with first-class honors and as the best female graduating student in her class as one of the happiest moments of her life. Sadly, he passed away just a month later, before attending her convocation ceremony.
Determined to honor his memory, she continued to the Nigerian Law School, where she balanced grief with the demands of legal education. She credited her mother with encouraging her to remain focused and continue pursuing the dreams she and her late father shared.
Her perseverance paid off as she graduated with another first-class result and emerged as a joint best graduating student at the Nigerian Law School.
Encouraging young people, Ani said success comes from giving one’s best in every worthwhile endeavor, remaining resilient through difficult times, and refusing to let life’s challenges define the future.
OAU First-Class Graduate Says She Studied Law to Fulfil Her Late Father’s Dream
OAU First-Class Graduate Says She Studied Law to Fulfil Her Late Father’s Dream
OAU First-Class Graduate Says She Studied Law to Fulfil Her Late Father’s Dream