In a time when academic excellence is often seen as an uphill battle, Oluwanifemi Ogunmodede stands out as a shining example of what determination, focus, and resilience can achieve. Graduating with first-class honors, his story is not just about grades, but about grit—the quiet strength to push forward despite obstacles, distractions, and doubts.
PurpleWorld correspondent Sarah Adeyemo sat down with the brilliant scholar to uncover the story behind the success.
From sleepless nights and moments of self-doubt to the unrelenting drive that carried him through, Oluwanifemi shares it all. His journey is one that resonates deeply with young Nigerians pursuing their goals in the face of uncertainty.
In this candid interview, he opens up about what it truly takes to earn a first-class degree—not just the books, but the mindset.
Can we meet you?
Hello, I’m Oluwanifemi Ogunmodede, a recent graduate of Ekiti State University(EKSU) with a first-class degree in Law. I am also a content creator and social media influencer who goes by nifemi.eo.
What inspired you to pursue a law degree?
Honestly, I chose law because it was the non math related course, but I’ve grown to love the course especially knowing that I can work in different fields that I love such as entertainment, banking, corporate, the list is endless.
Can you share the study methods and strategies that contributed to your success in earning a first-class degree with a CGPA of 4.66 at Ekiti State University?
What helped me was knowing what worked for me and filtering out everything else. I didn’t have to ever do a night class because I knew I assimilate better in the morning before doing any other activity. I could be washing clothes and be revising in my head at the same time anything that is unclear I go back to check . Understanding my lecturers helped in answering questions the way they structured their explanations in classes. Having a study group with friends who had similar goals. Reading extensively and also explaining to my course-mates. The strategies are endless.
What challenges did you encounter while in school, and how did you overcome them?
Firstly, there was never electricity in school area for the 6 years I spent in School which hindered a lot of things and made spending higher, we just had to adapt. Also, the lockdown in 2020 affected my result because we wrote examination immediately we resumed.
How did you balance academics with social life?
Just to restate that I found what worked for me, I am a very social person who is outgoing and loves to maintain relationship with my friends. I was a morning reader and I always said to myself before socializing that I must understand a topic or two. I even force my friends to read with me even if they had no idea what I was reading. On days I had classes or content creation days, I’d wake up earlier to read before stepping out. I never compromised on my studies, I’ve been able to master this right from high school where I received award for being most sociable whilst being the Library prefect.
How did you stay organized and manage your time effectively?
I plan every week ahead, I know what topics I’m reading and where I’m going by the beginning of the week, not to say that I followed them rigorously as there were times other things came up asides what I planned but I place all on a scale of importance.
What extracurricular activities were you involved in while in school?
Well, I was intentional not to join any extracurricular activities. Though I wasn’t actively engaged in the faculty and internships I have a freelance content creation career on the side which took most of my time as well. It was a conscious effort not to overburden myself. I tried to get involved sometimes like I applied to be a Court Registrar at SUG level but got no reply. Then I also served as my class FYB head of content team in my final year.
What role did mentorship or guidance play in your academic journey?
Well, I’ve not been the one to have a mentor but it’s something I look forward to having one in kickstarting my career, My brother a law Student showed me mistakes he made and how I could avoid them. Also, I have a cousin who graduated with first class from EKSU, who encouraged me it could be possible, some seniors in the faculty as well like Moyin Aribisala and Justice who would advice on how to go about certain courses. Of Course, my parents, especially my Dad came out best in his class in UI so that was a big inspiration as well!
What skills did you develop or acquire during your undergraduate studies?
Time management, critical thinking, research and analysis, collaboration and ability to work under pressure. You could be having exams next week and getting 100paged PDFs today and you have to cover everything.
Were there times you almost gave up on your goals?
Oh the time I got rejected by EKSU after my first application in 2018 and the late admission I got in 2019 it seemed like the odds were already against me before getting in. Also the 2022 strike made it seemed like I was never meant to get a degree.
How has your academic journey impacted your personal growth and development?
My academic journey indeed helped me socialize even more, when I got the Raymond Zards Award at 400 level which was a list always anticipated by each set in the faculty I had to be more open with my coursemates. It has also paved way for easier applications and offers from several enterprises. My academic journey has taught me the importance of self-discipline, hard work, and dedication. I’ve learned to set goals, prioritize tasks, and stay focused on achieving my objectives.
What are your academic projections after achieving this feat?
Currently looking towards Law School admission, to become a qualified lawyer. I have completed my AICMC training and exams and I’m currently awaiting certification to become a chartered Mediator and Conciliator.
I’m also interested in obtaining professional certifications, such as ICSAN and ACARB.
What advice would you give to students striving for academic excellence?
Know what works for you, set goals and work towards them. Understand your lecturers, study hard, don’t be discouraged and stay positive. It’s never too late to start.
