AFRICA | A brilliant Nigerian lady named Adeola Abilawon has achieved an impressive academic milestone in the United States, earning a master’s degree in Political Science with outstanding results and advancing immediately to a PhD program at West Virginia University.
Adeola’s journey began at the University of Lagos, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government in 2019. But her road to university was not smooth.
Before gaining admission, she faced setbacks that required her to take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) four times. Despite the repeated challenges, she remained focused, determined that her fourth attempt would be her last—and it was.
Driven by a strong passion for politics and governance, Adeola continued her academic pursuit in the United States. She enrolled at West Virginia University, where she recently completed her master’s degree in 2025.
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Her academic excellence earned her a direct offer to proceed with her doctoral studies at the same institution, marking a significant step forward in her research journey.
Reflecting on her path, Adeola shared a message that captured the heart of her experience:
“Ten years ago, you were so scared of such different things, but you survived them anyway… everything that has ever felt like a hurdle you’ve passed through.”
This quote resonated deeply with her, especially as she remembered preparing for her fourth JAMB exam a decade agohoping, praying, and telling herself it would be the last.
She recalled having the same kind of fear while preparing for her comprehensive exams, another major hurdle that tested her strength and resolve. But today, she stands as a PhD candidate, proud of how far she has come.
Adeola expressed gratitude to her family, mentors, and peers who have supported her throughout the journey.
Looking ahead with her growing interest in comparative public policy, bureaucracy, and agenda-setting, Adeola is eager to contribute meaningfully to research and real-world governance practices.
“This journey has taught me that fear may be loud, but it doesn’t get the final word. What feels like a mountain today will one day be a quiet reminder of your growth. Just keep going,” she said.
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