Hello everyone and welcome to Student’s Talk with Nancy A. It’s been so long that we interviewed a student on this blog and I am very excited to talk with Omoseni Oluwatimileyin today.
In today’s edition of student talk, she will be discussing with us about her experiences as a student, studying in Nigeria.
In this conversation, we will discuss school life and academic challenges, the opportunities, growth and her strong commitment to finishing strong, against all odds. Everyone, welcome to STUDENT’S TALK
Question: Can you introduce yourself and tell us where in Nigeria you are from?
I am Omoseni Esther Oluwatimileyin. I’m 29 years old. I am originally from Osun State, but I was born and raised in Ore, Ondo State.
Question: What is your current level of education and field of study?
I am a 400-level student studying Environmental Health Science at Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa.
Question: What inspired you to choose your course or area of interest?
Growing up in Ore, I saw how poor sanitation and unsafe water affected people’s health. I wanted to be part of solving that problem. Studying Environmental Health Science gives me the knowledge to protect communities from preventable diseases.
Question: How would you describe the quality of education in your school?
It’s practical and field-oriented, which I like. Our lecturers are experienced, but we sometimes lack modern lab equipment and enough practical exposure outside the classroom.
Question: What are the biggest challenges you face as a student in Nigeria?
Unstable electricity, high cost of study materials, and balancing school with family responsibilities. Sometimes strike actions also disrupt our academic calendar.
Question: How do you balance your academics with personal or family responsibilities?
I create a weekly schedule and communicate with my family about my exam periods. On weekends I make time for family duties so I can focus fully during week days.
Question: How important is access to the internet for your studies?
Very important. I use the internet for research, assignments, and watching tutorials on public health and sanitation. Without access to the internet, it’s difficult to keep up.
Question: Do you use online platforms or apps to support your learning?
Yes. I use YouTube for health lectures, Google Scholar for research papers, and WhatsApp groups to share notes and past questions with classmates.
Question: What challenges do you face with electricity?
Power outages are frequent. I rely on rechargeable lamps and plan my reading around when light is available. It makes late-night studying difficult.
Question: How does Nigerian culture influence your education or career choices?
In my community, health-related careers are respected because people see their direct impact. There’s also pressure to choose courses that will ensure prompt employment, so Environmental Health Science fits because of its relevance in both public and private sectors.
Question: Do your parents or community play a role in your academic decisions?
Yes. My family supports me and encourages me to finish strong. They see my course as a way to help not just myself but the community back home.
Question: What values are most important to you as a student?
Discipline, perseverance, and integrity. I believe if you’re disciplined, you can overcome most challenges here.
Question: What financial challenges do students commonly face?
Paying school fees, buying textbooks and materials, and covering transport and data costs. Some of us also send money home, which makes it tighter.
Question: Have you ever considered studying abroad? Why or why not?
Yes, for postgraduate studies. I’d love exposure to better facilities in environmental health. But right now, my focus is to finish here and gain practical experience in Nigeria first.
Question: What changes would you like to see in the Nigerian education system?
More funding for practical training, updated labs, and fewer disruptions from strikes. I’d also like more partnerships between schools and health agencies for internships.
Question: What are your career aspirations after graduation?
I want to work in public health and environmental sanitation, helping communities improve hygiene and prevent disease outbreaks. Long-term, I hope to lead health projects in my state.
Question: Do you feel prepared for the job market in Nigeria?
I feel prepared in theory and field practice, but I know I’ll need more hands-on experience through internships and volunteering to be fully competitive.
Question: What skills do you think are most important for your future?
Analytical skills, community engagement, data collection and analysis, and good communication. Health education is as much about people skills as it is about science.
Question: What does success mean to you as a Nigerian student?
Success means graduating with knowledge I can use to make a real difference, making my family proud, and being able to stand on my own financially.
Question: What advice would you give to younger students in Nigeria?
Stay focused and don’t let the challenges discourage you. Use every opportunity to learn, volunteer for practical experience early, and always remember why you started.