Despite not having a master’s degree, Nigerian researcher Kehinde Kolapo has accomplished an incredible academic milestone by obtaining three fully financed PhD scholarships in the United States after four years of constant rejections. He was able to transform setbacks into teaching moments thanks to his perseverance and will, which improved his chances of getting accepted to graduate school.
In 2020, Kehinde, a Pure and Applied Biology graduate of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), started applying to graduate schools abroad. He persisted in pursuing his objective in spite of multiple failed attempts, taking every rejection as an opportunity to strengthen his applications and advance his academic and scientific credentials.
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During the fall 2024 application session, he was rewarded for his perseverance with PhD offers from the University of Vermont, Penn State University, and the University of Texas at Arlington.
In the end, he decided to enrol in Penn State University’s PhD program in entomology, where he will study insects and their effects on both the environment and people. Kehinde attributes his accomplishments to tenacity as well as the priceless assistance of friends and mentors.
Samuel Olumide was important in examining his remarks, and Olamide Adigun introduced him to graduate school applications and him a CV template. He also received academic guidance and encouragement from his mentors, Dr. Titilayo Falade of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and Dr. Nutifafa Doumon, who supported him through difficult times.
As he reflected on his experience, Kehinde underlined the necessity of mentorship and self-belief, saying that success involves more than just applying to elite universities; it also involves realising one’s worth and effectively communicating it. Aspiring academics might find inspiration in his tale, which demonstrates how perseverance and the correct support network can transform obstacles into outstanding accomplishments.
CREDIT: ALLSCHOOL, Allschoolabs
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