What were you doing before you came to Keele?

“I actually had this one year national service in Nigeria, because it’s mandatory for any Nigerian graduate to undergo a one year service after the normal degree, it’s like a community service to your fatherland. So I completed that in early February, and since then I’ve been trying to apply to schools, for my MSc. My first degree was in Zoology at the University of Lagos, Nigeria.”

Why did you choose Keele?

“From undergraduate I had this interest in an Environment course, even my undergraduate thesis was on the effects of industrial effluents on fishes in the Lagos lagoon -- Many of our animals are going extinct mainly due to anthropogenic activities. So the Environmental Sustainability in Keele offered a focus on my interests and the opportunity to further my interests.”

Describe how you felt when you learnt that you had received the scholarship?

“Actually I made the scholarship application to two schools and I wasn’t offered Commonwealth scholarship at the first school… but I was still optimistic, I just felt like maybe there was still a chance. Late June I was just watching TV and then I got this mail and it was the best news of the year. So I checked the mail and I couldn’t even believe any more I had to go to my parents and tell them see... I had to get someone else to read the mail because sometimes you get so elated and excited that you feel that it’s not possible. And so I was happy!”

How have your first few weeks been – what are your first impressions of Keele?

“Before I came I actually, you’d see me downloading lots of Youtube videos on Keele University, so I kind of familiarised myself with some of the systems  like the library. Coming here, it was like you’re dreaming and then seeing the dream come true. I entered Keele, and everything is green and cool. So it’s okay in terms of academic too, I’ve attended some lectures and the conversation has been okay – it’s kind of a friendly interaction between you and your colleagues, even the lecturers! It’s a big difference to where I come from and I appreciate the fact that I have an opportunity to learn in this kind of system.”

What are you hopes, dreams and ambitions for the year ahead?

“Over the years I just keep learning - I just keep improving from secondary school to university. I want to create an excellent impression – I’m going higher now, being in Keele and I want to be better than what I actually did for my undergraduate. I’m optimistic, I know I will do it. It’s a new environment, and it’s a challenge actually, but I know I will do well with God’s help!”