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Oluwatobiloba Osedimilehin, a 23-year-old from Owo, Ondo State, has achieved a remarkable feat by graduating with first-class honors in Cell Biology and Genetics from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
In an exclusive interview with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI, Oluwatobiloba shares the story of his academic journey and the challenges he overcame to attain this prestigious accolade.
"I gained admission to UNILAG in 2017," Oluwatobiloba recounts, reflecting on the beginnings of his educational pursuit.
Despite facing initial hurdles, including delayed admission and accommodation issues in his first year, Oluwatobiloba persevered with determination and resilience.
His hard work and dedication culminated in an outstanding academic performance, with a remarkable Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.93.
Notably, he emerged as the best student in the Faculty of Science, a testament to his exceptional aptitude and commitment to excellence.
Throughout his academic journey, Oluwatobiloba actively engaged in various extracurricular activities and academic initiatives. He represented his department in competitions, attended conferences on forensics, and participated in Health Safety and Environment training, demonstrating a holistic approach to his education.
One of the highlights of Oluwatobiloba's academic endeavors was his research project on cloning the gene of the Chitinase enzyme in the African palm weevil. This project holds significant implications for waste disposal, agricultural pest control, and healthcare, showcasing Oluwatobiloba's dedication to contributing to scientific advancement and real-world problem-solving.
Looking ahead, Oluwatobiloba is passionate about applying his knowledge and skills in Cell Biology and Genetics to address real-world issues and scientific challenges.
He expresses particular interest in computer-aided drug design and gene editing with CRISPR, recognizing their potential to revolutionize healthcare and pharmaceutical research.
As he embarks on his professional journey, Oluwatobiloba is determined to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community. He plans to pursue a career in Bioinformatics, leveraging his expertise to attend conferences, publish research papers, and collaborate with fellow experts in the field.
For aspiring students in the field of Cell Biology and Genetics, Oluwatobiloba offers valuable advice: "Study hard, read journals, and apply for internships." He emphasizes the importance of academic dedication, intellectual curiosity, and practical experience in achieving success in this dynamic field.
Oluwatobiloba Osedimilehin's remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to young scholars across Nigeria, showcasing the power of perseverance, passion, and dedication in pursuit of academic excellence and scientific innovation.