AFRICA | A determined Nigerian man finally wins scholarship at US university four years after suffering rejections, celebrates success.
A determined Nigerian man named Ujah Godswill has finally earned a scholarship to study in the United States after facing four years of rejections from different universities while pursuing graduate studies.
Reflecting on his journey, Godswill shared on LinkedIn that the past four years after his undergraduate studies had been filled with challenges—rejections, disappointments, mixed emotions, doubts, and questions about his dream of earning a graduate degree.
Despite graduating with an outstanding grade, the road to furthering his education was not easy. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Crop Production and Soil Science with a remarkable 4.72 First-Class GPA from Ladoke Akintola University of Science and Technology (LAUTECH).
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During this time, Godswill sent countless cold emails, applied to numerous universities, was shortlisted for scholarships only to face disappointments, and attended several interviews that did not yield positive outcomes.
However, despite these setbacks, Godswill remained resilient, and his efforts finally paid off. He was awarded a Graduate Research Assistantship to pursue a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science at Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Kentucky, United States.
Through the years of applying, Godswill said he learned valuable lessons that extend beyond scholarship applications and apply to life. He learned that rejection does not define his worth. It is crucial to surround yourself with a supportive network – people who believe in you, offer guidance and connect you with opportunities.
Furthermore, Godswill emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and development. Do not put life on hold while waiting for opportunities; keep learning and improving yourself.
He also highlights that being qualified does not guarantee selection; timing plays a significant role. Opportunities may arise unexpectedly, even when you feel like giving up, reminding you to persevere.
Finally, Godswill emphasizes the importance of his faith. He believes that divine support is crucial and that without it, all his efforts might be in vain. This belief reinforces the importance of perseverance and trusting in a higher power during challenging times.
Goodswill expressed deep gratitude to his parents for their unwavering belief in him, his siblings for their prayers and encouragement, and his lecturers at LAUTECH—whom he affectionately calls his mentors—for their guidance and continued support.
He also thanked members of the Church of Christ, friends, and all the incredible people who assisted him in different ways—from application reviews to visa processes and mock interviews.
To those facing similar struggles, Godswill offers these words of encouragement. ”Remember: your dreams are valid. Keep going; your success is closer than you think,” he said.
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