Bello Khalilat’s dedication and hard work led her to excel in Applied Chemistry at Usmanu Danfodiyo University.

In a region of Northern Nigeria often burdened by stereotypes and academic obstacles, Bello Khalilat’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence has defied the odds and paved a remarkable path to success. Her journey is not only inspiring but also a powerful testament to perseverance and determination.

Hailing from Offa in Kwara State, Bello came to terms with her fate of studying Applied Chemistry at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), after realizing that pursuing a medical degree would be a forlorn attempt. Accepting her new path, she immersed herself in her studies, determined to make the most of her time at the university.

Reflecting on her past, Bello recounted, “There has never been a record of my struggling in the field of chemistry. When I graduated from secondary school, I was awarded for being the best student in chemistry. My interest in the subject only deepened as I moved forward.”

Fully aware of the volatile academic experiences faced by undergraduates, she bolstered her academic pursuits by attending lectures regularly and taking tutorials on challenging courses. “Earning a 4.89 on a 5.0 CGPA scale in my first year compelled me to give it my all,” she enthused, describing how she persevered in a class of highly competitive students.

“As an ardent believer in hard work, I spent countless hours reading and writing, thoroughly studying the materials. Attending tutorials, brainstorming, and sharing ideas with my classmates helped me tackle some challenging courses,” she added. Regarding long-term concentration during reading, she noted, “The goal I had in mind kept me going and helped manage distractions.”

Despite her active involvement in extracurricular activities and having served as vice president of her departmental association, she said, “All engagements are brought to an abeyance during tests and exams.”

Bello expressed immense gratitude, saying, “I’m immensely grateful to God for being the top student in my department with the highest CGPA of 4.85. I attribute this achievement to the self-discipline I developed early on and the encouragement I received from my friends and family.”

Bello advises undergraduates against inconsistency and emphasizes the importance of commitment and hard work. “Hard work helps mitigate against gratuitous results,” she warns.

Bello Khalilat’s story is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication and resilience, even in the face of significant challenges.