Meet 22 years old best graduating student in BABCOCK university

With a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4 . 90 , Alexandria Braie of the Department of Accounting , Babcock University, Ilishan Remo , Ogun State , emerged the best graduating student of the institution . In this interview with
FOLASHADE ADEBAYO, the 22 - year -old discusses her next steps .
You emerged the best graduating student despite having the second highest cumulative grade point average of your set. What qualified you for the honour ?
There were other criteria taken into consideration , such as leadership skills , spirituality and community service . I was a leader in church and although there were no specific projects in these areas , my service in church and citizenship grade were considered .
Were you expecting it?
No . I was shocked . I feel blessed and honoured . I was not expecting it because someone else was already announced as the student with the highest CGPA. I had the second highest CGPA. Today is my happiest day and I am grateful to God , my parents and friends who have always supported me.
Did you consider yourself studious?
I was a balanced student . Reading everyday does not come to me , but I also took notes in class . I took notes to have a basic understanding and I guess it helps when you are not reading . I used the library because I like to read in a serene and quiet environment . The Internet played a very big role also. I got so many materials that you would not ordinarily get in textbooks . I feel that people should utilise the Internet more for its positive sides . Social media is good , but one can leverage on the internet to acquire academic knowledge . I would put the role the internet played in my success at 70 per cent .
How easy was it to make a first class ?
I have always been a bright student . I was the best graduating student in the university, the best Accounting student and the best student in the School of Management Sciences . I also won the ICAN prize for best Accounting student . I attended the University of Lagos Staff School , Akoka, and the Redeemer ’ s International Secondary School , Maryland , for my primary and secondary school education .
I have always been brilliant and I have always been very determined to succeed in whatever I do . I look up to my mother because of her drive and determination to be successful . She is a facility manager and she inspires me to do more. I also ensure that I don ’ t give in to distractions and remain focused . However , I cannot do anything without God . He is the path to my success .
Do you have a boyfriend?
Can I say no comment?
Would you say that bright students get the same reward as winners of talent and reality shows ?
I think there is an imbalance , but it is important that one derive satisfaction from what one does . I know that I can participate in a talent show and be presented with N10 m , but I might not earn that amount in three years in a regular job . But , am I doing it for the money ? Do I love what I am doing ? The basic thing is to love what one is doing .
What are the next steps for you ?
I am looking at studying for my masters. I have always wanted to be a chartered accountant and later on a consultant. I would love to work in big accounting firms around the world .
Why opt for Accounting ?
I have always wanted to be an accountant because figures and numbers come easy to me . It was not a difficult choice at all because I enjoy working with numbers . You need accountants everywhere and there are different aspects of accounting such as tax and consultancy. There is a big tax drive to generate revenue at the moment .
What were your challenges in school and how did you surmount them ?
It was basically about trying to create time for other things . The university obviously has restrictions, in terms of leaving school . But it was challenging trying to balance my professional exams and school exams . But I overcame by planning ahead .