An Interviews With OAU First Class Graduate Of Department Of Accounting, Islamiyyah Abdul-Lateef

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I'm Islamiyyah Abdullateef, a first class Accounting graduate, a chartered Accountant, and a Muslimah. I'm an enthusiastic, responsible, flexible and supportive individual who is always willing and ready to learn. I'm also very passionate about personal growth and development.

Can you share your educational background with us?

I had my primary education at Imam Zubair Nursery and Primary School, Ibadan. Then I proceeded to Command Day Secondary School, Ibadan to complete my secondary education. After, I obtained my first degree in Accounting at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

Can you brief us on your Islamic background?

While my father isn't an Imam, my family is very islamic, if there's a word like that, (laughs). My islamic background is a strong one. I attended Modrasah while growing up and I have proficiency in reading the Qur'an. Of course, I also took Arabic lessons.

I hold Islam very dearly and I do not compromise. I have plans never to.

You recently graduated with a first class honours from what is known to be a considerably _stress-full_ institution. How can you relate to this?

It's actually the truth. The stress involved cannot be overemphasized. Except for those who are nonchallant about their grades, every student is kept on his/her toes. From moving around lecture theatres for lectures to studying late in the night... everything was full of stress. However, the dedication, resilience, prayers, perseverance and hard work will pay off. Surely.

Can you narrate at least one particular shege-full experience that you absolutely cannot forget?

I'm still thinking...I haven't found any in my memory

Which level was the toughest for you. And why?

Allah made it easy for me. However, 300 Level seemed the toughest. This is because it was the time when my professional exams got intense. Running both together made it kind of tough.

Some people are of the opinion that to achieve a first class honours in OAU, you most won't be active in extra curricular actives like sports, business, religion and the likes. What do you have to say about that?

What do you think helped you to achieve what you did? You can list several

First, Allah. Because it's simply Allah. And because He made it easy, consistency, hardwork, resilience, good friends, commitment and prayers were other factors.

Second?

Second, third, fourth.... everything after Allah (smiles)

How did you feel being called up for your degree on your convocation?

Elated! Yes, that's the word. I felt honoured, happy, thankful and proud of myself. That the hard work came with evidence, that the resilience didn't just come, that my sleepless nights were now being rewarded, I was particularly happy for that.

In a brief paragraph, how can you summarise your journey in OAU?

In a nutshell, it was worth it. It was beautiful. It still feels surreal that I've left the system, actually. The university is filled with amazing people and I'm grateful for the gift of them. My journey was impactful...it was amazing that I had the opportunity to impart knowledge. Yeah, basically.

An advice for those you leave behind?

To the undergraduates, my advice is to know yourself, know what you're doing, believe in yourself, choose good friends, be determined, stay focused, prioritize (put first things first), pray to God, attend classes, be committed to your primary assignment and if you can, take responsibilities (they'll help you grow).

Thank you so much for your time and pearls of experience

Thank you very much!