From induction hall to our interview spotlight!
Following the induction ceremony for the 2023/2024 MBBS and BDS class of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL) on the 27th of June 2025, our correspondent – Hafsat Inuwa – caught up with one of the top graduating students to discuss her strategy and share insights from her achievement.
MM: Can you tell us about yourself briefly?
My name is Dr. Adebola Tijani, a recent graduate of College of Medicine, University of Lagos. I’m a passionate, purpose-driven individual who believes deeply in the power of compassion, precision, and persistence—qualities that have shaped my journey in dentistry. My academic path has been one of resilience, faith, and sheer determination, and I’m honoured to be here.
MM: Talking about your journey in dentistry, was it your chosen course or something that just came to be?
Dentistry was not necessarily a chosen path, but over the years I realized I’ve always had a fascination with the intricate link between oral health and overall well-being. So yes, this was more of something that came to be.
MM: Interesting. So, what drove your passion and kept you motivated in your academic pursuits?
Impact. Knowing that every lecture I absorb, every patient I treat, and every skill I refine brings me one step closer to changing lives keeps me going. Also, my faith, family support, and the desire to make the most of every opportunity God has given me drive me daily. When the “why” is clear, the discipline becomes easier.
MM: How do you set and prioritize your academic goals?
I always start with clarity—understanding the scope of what’s expected, then breaking that down into manageable targets. I use to-do lists, study plans aligned with the school calendar, and weekly reflection to stay on track. I prioritize based on deadlines, relevance, and difficulty, and I give more attention to areas I find challenging.
MM: How do you manage your time effectively?
Balance is everything. I treat my time like currency – budgeted and spent wisely. I won’t lie that it wasn’t difficult, but I managed. I’ve learned not to chase perfection, but consistency. I also learned to say no to distractions that don’t align with my priorities.
MM: What strategies do you use to overcome obstacles, stay focused, and achieve your goals?
Prayer and planning. I don’t face challenges alone – I seek help, ask questions, and reach out to mentors. I also joined a group study, it’s important to know that you can’t do this alone. I also keep affirmations, which fuel my belief in what’s possible. Even when overwhelmed, I take things one step at a time. Focus comes from knowing your destination.
MM: What tools or techniques do you use to stay organized?
Having notebooks and a journal also helped me keep each course organized and helped me stay grounded. Most importantly, I review my goals to ensure I’m staying aligned.
MM: How do you handle academic setbacks or failures?
I reflect, not retreat. I allow myself to feel the disappointment briefly, then ask – what went wrong? What can I do better? I’ve learned that failure isn’t final; it’s feedback.
MM: What do you consider your greatest academic achievement, and why?
Being named the Best Student in Paediatric Dentistry and Periodontology is truly the highlight of my academic journey. It’s a culmination of years of hard work, sleepless nights. More than the title, it’s proof to me that excellence is always rewarded – even if delayed.
MM: How do you see these academic achievements impacting your future?
They’ve built my confidence and laid a solid foundation for excellence. Awards may open doors, but the discipline behind them will keep those doors open. My achievements fuel my vision for global impact, and also keep me in line for opportunities.
MM: Now that you are done with this degree, could you share some of your plans?
Yes, I plan to pursue advanced training and certifications. I also want to give back through outreach, mentorship, and possibly lecturing someday. Ultimately, I hope to build a practice that combines empathy, excellence, and innovation.
MM: How do you evaluate your performance and identify areas for improvement?
I regularly review my test scores, clinical evaluations, and personal reflections.
Feedback from lecturers and supervisors is gold to me. I’m honest with myself—if I didn’t give my best, I hold myself accountable and do better next time.
MM: If you could go back in time, what would you have done better?
I would have embraced rest and self-compassion sooner. There were times I pushed myself to exhaustion. I’ve learned that taking care of yourself doesn’t slow you down; it sustains your pace. Also, I would’ve documented more of my journey – it’s easy to forget how far you’ve come.
MM: Aside from academics, what do you enjoy at leisure?
I enjoy spending time with family. I also love reflecting through music and soaking in quiet moments, it helps me reconnect with myself.
MM: What advice would you give to junior colleagues aspiring to be celebrated academically?
Believe in your journey, even if it looks different from others. Show up every day with intention.
Excellence is a habit, not an accident. Be teachable, stay consistent, and lean on God. You don’t need to be perfect—just committed.
MM: Final words?
Just a word of gratitude—to every mentor, classmate, lecturer, and patient that was part of my growth. Thank you for shaping my journey. This is only the beginning. I look forward to giving back, growing more, and healing smiles all over the world.
MM: Thank you for sharing your thoughts and documenting your journey with us. We wish you the absolute best in all your endeavours!
