Interview with Dr Jadesola Ajao: The Best Female Graduating Student and Accomplished Freelance writer

Dr Jadesola Ajao, the best female graduating student of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan in the 2021/2022 academic session, attained six distinctions and an impressive average score of 75.3%. In this exclusive interview with VNO, she shares insight into her journey revealing the meticulous techniques and unwavering determination that led to her outstanding achievement.

VNO: Could you please introduce yourself?

Dr Jadesola: I'm Dr. Jadesola Ajao, a recently inducted veterinary medical doctor. I graduated as the Best Graduating Female Student in my class with six distinctions. I'm also a Top Rated Plus Freelance writer on Upwork.

VNO: What motivated you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
Dr Jadesola: Since I was eight years old, I've known that I wanted to become a Veterinary Medical Doctor. While my initial preference was English Literature, my parents guided me towards veterinary medicine, believing it would lead to a successful future. I'm grateful that I embraced this path and excelled in it.

VNO: How did you effectively balance your academic excellence and freelance writing?
Dr Jadesola: Skillful time management was key. I established clear priorities and divided my study hours between veterinary medicine and freelance writing. I even studied during unconventional times, such as reading while in class. To me, passing exams was about what I studied, not just what was taught in class. I also incorporated writing into my daily routine, maintaining a focus on both academic success and freelance achievements.

VNO: Could you share the journey that led to your remarkable achievement as the best graduating female student?
Dr Jadesola: Although veterinary medicine wasn't my first choice, I embraced it wholeheartedly and I believe that what's worth doing is worth doing well. I aimed for excellence and became the top student in my 100-level. Once I achieved that, I remained determined to maintain that position, setting my mind on excelling in the field. It was initially challenging, but with support from mentors like Professor Olopade and Dr Ajibade and a strategic approach to studying, I managed to excel and achieve my goal.

VNO: Did you initially aim to be the best graduating student?
Dr Jadesola: Yes, initially, becoming the best graduating student was my goal. However, my priorities shifted during my 500-level year as I became more involved in freelance writing and my Christian faith. Despite this shift, I continued to strive for academic excellence.

VNO: What study techniques or habits contributed to your academic success?
Dr Jadesola: I employed various study techniques, such as repetitively reviewing course materials to enhance retention. I started studying from the first day of class, gradually building my knowledge. By the time exam came, I would have studied a lot and just had my jottings to review. Even when I didn't feel like studying, I maintained consistency and rewarded myself as motivation. During exams, I carefully observed my lecturers' preferences and focused on answering questions based on their areas of interest. I approached each course with a tailored strategy, prioritizing subjects where I aimed to achieve distinctions.

VNO: What courses did you earn distinctions in?
Dr Jadesola: I earned distinctions in Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, Theriogenology, and Medicine.

VNO: How did you balance your academic commitment with extracurricular activities?
Dr Jadesola: Despite being an introvert, I managed to engage in various extracurricular activities. I participated in press organizations, contributed to writing initiatives, opened a YouTube channel, and even gave a TED talk. My interests mainly revolved around reading and writing, allowing me to strike a balance between academics and extracurricular pursuits.

VNO: How did you handle stress during your demanding veterinary medicine studies?
Dr Jadesola: Vet school can be stressful especially if you're someone that is pursuing distinctions. I committed my journey to God and sought guidance from friends and relied on my faith to navigate the challenging moments.

VNO: Did you always believe you would achieve distinctions at the start of each session?
Dr Jadesola: Yes, I maintained a strong belief in my ability to achieve distinctions. I planned ahead, identified courses I aimed to excel/get distinction in, and approached my studies strategically to increase my chances of achieving my goals.

VNO: Any regrets or things you wish you had done differently during vet school?
Dr Jadesola: While I am proud of my accomplishments, I do regret not dedicating more time to developing leadership skills and contributing to faculty events.

VNO: What's your current relationship status?
Dr Jadesola: I prefer not to disclose my relationship status.

VNO: Are you planning to specialize in a particular aspect of veterinary medicine?
Dr Jadesola: While I'm not currently focused on practicing or specializing in veterinary medicine, I am aiming to pursue a Master's degree. However, in the long term, I'm open to exploring different fields.

VNO: Which department are you considering for your Master's, and what other fields are you interested in?
Dr Jadesola: I'm planning to specialize in Pathology for my Master's. As for other fields, I haven't finalized my decisions, but I can see writing playing a role in my future.

VNO: Did you hold any significant roles in school?
Dr Jadesola: Yes, I held several significant roles during my time in school, including Deputy E in C and Archilles at VNO, Senator at UCJ, UI, Deputy Head of the Academic Mentors Committee, and Group Rep on multiple occasions.

VNO: You haven't pursued international internships, could you explain why?
Dr Jadesola: The concept of international internships wasn't widespread until Dr. Richard Adeleke popularized it by applying for one. It wasn't a consideration for many of my classmates. Also, my focus during vet school was on academic excellence rather than research. While I did apply once, I wasn't selected. I prioritized excelling academically and aimed to gain research experience post-graduation instead. International internships weren't a priority for me given my other commitments.

VNO: Can you share your life philosophy and how it influences you?
Dr Jadesola: My life philosophy is that God has already planned my life's events. I see my life as a predetermined series of events, which allows me to stay calm when things don't go as planned, knowing that the outcome is beyond my control.

VNO: How do you assess the state of veterinary practice in Nigeria?
Dr Jadesola: Based on my experiences during my IT at various veterinary hospitals, I would say veterinary practice is amazing. While some areas, especially in the north with large animals, there are issues with unqualified practitioners. There is progress being made in the field.

VNO: What are your future plans, where do you see yourself in the next 5years?
Dr Jadesola: In the next five years, I envision being happily married with children and devoted to serving God. Professionally, I am exploring various options, including research, writing, and potentially venturing into veterinary practice.

VNO: What advice do you have for current and future veterinary students?
Dr Jadesola: Whatever you choose to do, do it with excellence. Even if your path wasn't your first choice, commit to it fully and strive for success. Prioritize your studies while also exploring other interests that can complement your journey.

VNO: Is there a possibility of you pursuing opportunities abroad?
Dr Jadesola: I have no immediate plans to pursue opportunities abroad. I'm still fond of Nigeria and it's comfortable being here.

VNO: Who would you like to acknowledge for supporting you during your journey?
Dr Jadesola: I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Ajibade, Dr. Akinrinde, and Prof Olopade for their unwavering support throughout my challenging moments in vet school.

VNO: It was a pleasure having this session with you. Thank you for your time and insights.
Dr Jadesola: You're welcome. Thanks for having me.