Exclusive Interview with the First Graduate with Distinction from the Department of Medical Rehabilitation

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By Omotara Adesina 
Ibrahim Rasaq, on Friday, November 2022, became the first person in the history of the Department of Medical Rehabilitation at OAU to graduate with a distinction.
The Icons Organisation had an exclusive interview with Ibrahim Rasaq.

Personal Background and Journey
Question: Can you tell us about yourself and your educational background? 
Answer: My name is Ibrahim Rasaq Bolaji, and I recently got inducted into the physiotherapy profession with a distinction from the Department of Medical Rehabilitation at Obafemi Awolowo University. I am honored to be the first in my department's history to achieve this distinction.

Question: What motivated you to pursue this field of study? Answer: I was inspired by my uncle who is a medical doctor and also graduated from this university

Question: Did you always envision yourself achieving this level of success in school? Why or why not?
Answer: I did not specifically envision myself achieving a distinction. I was just focused on passing each exam but I was informed of the possibility in my early final year by one of my lecturers.

READ ALSO: Hike in Electricity Tariff: OAU Begins Electricity Rationing

Question: How do you feel now being recognized as the 1st best graduating student in your department, coming out with distinctions?
Answer: I feel deeply honored and humbled to be recognized as the first best graduating student with a distinction in my department. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering support of my family, friends, and mentors.

How about we dive a bit into your study habits and how you were able to balance it all.

Question: What study techniques or habits do you believe contributed the most to your success?
Answer: Time management and consistent reading was the key. Being ahead of the class too.

Question: How did you handle challenges or difficult courses during your studies?
Answer: Well, with challenging courses, I just invested extra time in them. I made sure I read materials and textbooks to get deeper understandings.

Question: Was there a particular class or project that stood out as the most challenging or rewarding? And how did it shape your academics journey? 
Answer: I would say Zoology in Part 1, Anatomy (Histology and Embryology) in part 2 and Project work in part 5 were the most challenging courses I encountered. Successfully completing these courses significantly boosted my confidence. I realized that with dedication, I could overcome any academic hurdle. These experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic and a belief in my ability to achieve my goals.

Question: Did you have any mentors or support systems that played a significant role in your success?
Answer: My support systems were my friends that we went through it together. Also, my family’s unwavering belief in me. Lastly, my supervisor's guidance too. All these helped me preserve and achieve this goal.

Question: Was there ever a time when you felt like giving up? How did you stay motivated?
Answer: There were many challenges but I never really felt like giving up.


Question: Do you have any memorable experiences or achievements during your studies that stand out?
Answer: Maybe getting 80s in my exams

Question: Who or what was your biggest source of inspiration throughout your academic journey?
Answer: My biggest source of inspiration was my family.

Question: Were you involved in any organizations, internships, or community service during your studies? How did they contribute to your growth?
Answer: I was involved in my department’s Journal Club. The experience provided me opportunity to delve deeper into research aside my final year project work. 

Question: How did you balance academics with extracurricular activities, social activities or personal life?
Answer: I prioritized academics over other activities. I was mindful of my time and avoided activities that would have affected my study plan. When it was time for a test or exam, I put other things on hold until I was done. This allowed me to balance my academic commitments with my personal life effectively

Question: Did you have a particular routine or system for managing your time and workload?  
 Answer: I primarily relied on mental notes to manage my time and workload. However, during exam periods, I created detailed daily schedules to prioritize tasks and allocate specific time slots for studying.

Alright, let’s do a bit of reflection.

Question: What lessons have you learned from this experience that you’ll carry into the future?
Answer: I have learned that with dedication and perseverance, I can achieve my goals, no matter how challenging they may seem

Question: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently or changed during your academic journey? 
Answer: Maybe I could have socialized a bit more.

Question: How do you intend to use your knowledge and achievements to make an impact in your field and society at large?
Answer: In my field of physiotherapy, I aspire to contribute to public health and neurology. By empowering individuals to manage their conditions and regain their independence, I hope to make a significant impact on public health and well-being.

Question: What are your plans now that you have graduated? How do you see your achievements contributing to your long-term goals? 
Answer: I plan to start my internship at a reputable hospital very soon. As for the future, I am open to various opportunities and will continue to strive for excellence.

Question: What advice would you give to students who aspire to achieve similar success?
 Answer: I would advise aspiring students to prioritize time management and effective study habits. Finding a study plan that works for you is key. Do not be afraid to seek help or learn from your mates when needed. Consistency and perseverance are crucial for success.

Question: What message do you have for your department, lecturers, and fellow students?
Answer: I want to express my sincere gratitude to my department, lecturers especially my supervisor, Dr. Okonji, and fellow students for their unwavering support and guidance throughout my academic journey. Your encouragement and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today. Thank you all. 

Question: Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience or achievements?
Answer: I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Almighty God for blessing me with this honor. 










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