Victory Abanjo, the overall best graduating student of the University of Port Harcourt with a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.89, has revealed how hard work, consistency, and a unique study system helped her achieve academic excellence.
Abanjo, who studied Educational Psychology, Guidance, and Counselling, told The Punch that graduating top of her class was a result of discovering a personal method that worked for her and sticking with it. “I discovered that I learnt better when I studied alone rather than in groups, and I didn’t have fixed hours or times for study. Instead, I maximised the moments when I truly felt like reading,” she explained.
The graduate said she often studied in three-hour stretches and prioritised class attendance, which made exam preparation easier. “Since I was always present in class, revising my notes came naturally. I didn’t need to start afresh every exam period,” she added.
Despite excelling academically, Abanjo admitted that her journey was not without challenges. She cited financial struggles during her first year as her greatest hurdle. To cope, she ventured into online business, vending airtime, while later earning cash awards from organisations that recognised her outstanding academic performance.
Abanjo also revealed that she deliberately stayed away from romantic relationships after 200-Level to remain focused. “The last relationship I had ended because I realised it wasn’t what I wanted. I decided to concentrate fully on my academics,” she said.
Her achievements, she noted, have created opportunities for mentorship, especially among young people aspiring for academic success. She expressed a passion for youth guidance, industrial psychology, and counselling, fields she believes are often overlooked in Nigeria.
“Counselling is very important, but in this part of the world people don’t take it seriously. They prefer prayers or punishment to addressing issues through counselling. My vision is to change that perception and contribute to building young people,” Abanjo stated.
She advised students to identify what works for them academically, remain consistent, and avoid distractions. “Hard work truly pays, but only when you discover your system and stay disciplined,” she concluded.
