Ayodeji Akinsanya, who emerged as the best graduating student of the University of Ilorin for the 2023/2024 academic session with an outstanding CGPA of 4.97, has commenced a fully funded Doctor of Philosophy programme in Mathematics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, United States, where he will also serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant.
Akinsanya, who arrived in the United States three weeks ago, described the new phase as the beginning of a journey focused on advanced research, teaching and academic growth.
The 2023 valedictorian, who had earlier spoken about the challenges that shaped his academic path, recalled writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination four times before eventually securing admission into the University of Ilorin. The experience taught him resilience and helped him develop a disciplined and strategic approach to learning.
He developed a study method that involved reading materials several times to ensure deep understanding. After gaining admission, he further refined this approach by using holidays to prepare for upcoming courses, thereby building a strong academic foundation each semester.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Akinsanya expressed profound gratitude to the mentors, recommenders and supporters who contributed to his success. He acknowledged their encouragement and guidance as instrumental in reaching this milestone.
He noted that graduating as the best student at the University of Ilorin marked the conclusion of one phase of his life, while the commencement of his doctoral programme represents the beginning of another.
He expressed optimism about the future and readiness to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead.
