Featured: Hafsoh Alli’s Journey: From Rejection to Academic Excellence

By Ibrahim Ridwanullahi

Upon receiving news of her recent academic achievement, Hafsoh Okikiola Alli reflected on the challenges she had overcome—two unsuccessful attempts at gaining admission to medical school and numerous nights dedicated to studying various textbooks and conducting research to distinguish herself among her peers. Despite these obstacles, she emerged as one of the top scholars at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS).

In a nation where the sentiment “School Na Scam” resonates among disillusioned youths questioning the value of formal education, Hafsoh’s journey exemplifies that academic excellence remains a viable path to success. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

A Dream Redirected

Born in Edo State and originally from Ekiti, Hafsoh spent her early years in Ondo and Ekiti States, laying the groundwork for her educational journey. She attended At-Tawheed Model Primary School in Ondo, then proceeded to Khadob College, Akure, for her secondary education, and later returned to At-Tawheed Model College, completing her studies in 2017.

Aspiring to study Medicine at the University of Ibadan (UI) or Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Hafsoh faced two unsuccessful admission attempts, leaving her with a pivotal decision: to abandon her dream or to pivot.

Choosing not to be defined by disappointment, she opted for a new path—Chemistry at UDUS. What began as an alternative soon became her passion.

“I knew that whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well, so I decided to give my best to Chemistry,” she recalled.

From her first day at UDUS, Hafsoh distinguished herself as an exceptional student, maintaining the top position in her department from her first year through her final year—an accomplishment unmatched by her coursemates.

A Record-Breaking Academic Journey

Hafsoh’s brilliance was evident from the start. In her first year, she achieved a near-perfect 4.98 GPA. As her coursework became more challenging, she remained consistent, attaining a 4.95 GPA in both her second and third years. By graduation, she had secured an impressive 4.85 CGPA out of 5.0, solidifying her status among the university’s top scholars.

Her academic excellence was recognized through multiple honors. For four consecutive years, she was featured on the Dean’s List (Hall of Fame) for maintaining the highest CGPA in her department. In her third year, she was acknowledged as the Best Student in the Faculty of Science, standing out among hundreds of students.

Beyond academics, Hafsoh actively participated in the University Scholars’ Forum, a platform that fosters academic excellence and leadership. She also played a significant role in the Students’ Chemical Society of Nigeria (SCSN), deepening her involvement in the field.

Overcoming Challenges

While Hafsoh’s accomplishments may appear effortless, her journey was fraught with challenges. Certain courses were particularly demanding, prompting her to adopt new strategies to excel.

“I remember struggling with certain courses during my stay in the campus,” she admitted. “Despite attending lectures and studying hard, I still found them difficult. I had to seek extra materials, consult my lecturers, and form study groups just to understand them better.”

“There were moments when I had to go extra-mile just to achieve the difficulties of certain courses just to learn more about them. Gathering information through online resources because I want to know more as little about any courses,” she recalled. “But I never let that be an excuse to give up.”

Beyond academics, Hafsoh navigated social pressures. While some peers adopted a more relaxed approach to university life, she remained focused.


Inspired by Excellence

Hafsoh found inspiration in those who had preceded her, particularly Scholar Stella Chinelo Emelife, an alumna of the UDUS Chemistry Department. Emelife not only graduated with first-class honors but also broke a century-old academic record in India during her M.Sc. and is now pursuing a Ph.D. in the United States.

“She showed me that excellence knows no boundaries. Her story motivated me to push harder,” Hafsoh said.

Emulating her role model, Hafsoh extended her learning beyond self-study, attended seminars, and engaged in research beyond the curriculum.

“I realized that to be truly excellent, I had to go beyond just classroom lectures. I spent time reading research papers, watching academic videos, and practicing beyond what was required,” she explained.

Looking Ahead: A Future in Science

With her undergraduate journey concluded, Hafsoh is focusing on the future. She aims to further her studies in pharmaceutical or analytical chemistry abroad, aspiring to contribute to scientific research that enhances healthcare and environmental safety.

Her passion for knowledge is driven by a desire to make a tangible impact. “I want to be part of groundbreaking research that solves real-world problems, especially in medicine and environmental sustainability,” she noted.

Hafsoh Alli encourages students striving for academic excellence to maintain consistent attendance and disciplined study habits, emphasizing that regularity is crucial. She advises staying focused, as dedication and perseverance are key to academic success. Trusting in God is also important to her, as she believes that “nothing is impossible with Him.” Hafsoh stresses the importance of going beyond the classroom by engaging in self-research and exploring opportunities in other fields. Additionally, she highlights the value of surrounding oneself with the right people, choosing friends and mentors who encourage growth.

Through her journey, Hafsoh aims to inspire the next generation of students to believe in the power of education and hard work. She concludes, “If my story proves anything, it’s that hard work and faith can take you anywhere. If you dream big and stay dedicated, success will follow.”

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