Two Years of Learning, Growth, and Personal Sacrifice: My Master’s Degree Journey
Today, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and fulfilment.
Two years ago, I took a bold step to return to school and pursue a Master’s degree at Kwara State University (KWASU). This decision came seven years after I earned my first degree in Business Administration from the University of Ilorin, and six years after I became a Chartered Manager through the Nigerian Institute of Management.
Going back to school after such a long break wasn’t ever going to be easy. My life had changed, responsibilities had increased, and the idea of sitting in classrooms again felt strange to me. However, I believed it was the right step to take for my personal growth and long-term goals.
The past two years have been filled with challenges. There were moments when I felt completely overwhelmed. In fact, I thought about quitting more than four times. Lol.
The financial stress was much more than I had expected, and nobody will tell you about our educational system. Beyond paying school fees, there were many hidden costs, such as transportation, learning materials, data for online classes, class contributions, and day-to-day living expenses.
Then came the academic pressure. The lectures weren’t as intense as I expected, but the assignment deadlines were always crazily fast. I often found myself juggling multiple tasks, being someone who has to be online to work, staying up late to complete assignments, and waking up early for classes during weekends.
One thing that caught me off guard was dealing with different personalities in the classroom. While everyone was there to learn, we all had different life experiences and mindsets, which shaped how we behaved. Some people were easy to work with, while others were difficult, which challenged my patience and understanding. But this also helped me grow.
Serving as Class Representative
One of the biggest turning points during this journey was being selected as the Class Representative for a group of over 70 students during our first week.
Many of my classmates were older than I — some were even old enough to be my parents. Yet, they accepted me and trusted me to lead. This role helped me build important life skills. I learned how to listen, manage people, and remain calm in stressful situations.
It also helped me build meaningful relationships. I have made friends with people from different walks of life, people I may never have met otherwise. I am grateful to every classmate who showed me respect, support, and understanding along the way. And to a few, we had altercations; it’s normal for that to happen. I know there were times I didn’t meet expectations, but I always tried to give my best sincerely.
This also showed me the enormous sacrifices our leaders have to make at different times. It was surprising that there was no honorarium for class reps in the discharge of their duties. Most of the time, I have had to use personal funds to sort out some class itineraries. This was a great learning curve for me. I appreciate the people who always come at odd times to show support both morally and financially.
Also, it was surreal that people could feel so intensely entitled to your time and attention simply because you are a class governor, especially on days there will be no school. I found it strange, and it opened my eyes to what most of our leaders have had to face.
Will I love to serve again as a lead in class? Absolutely!
May Mrs. Aina Oladimeji’s soul continue to rest in peace. She was one of the earliest to show me support in my class, but unfortunately, she couldn’t finish the program with us.
Friendships That Made the Journey Lighter and More Meaningful
Another important part of my journey was the friendships I formed. I am sincerely grateful to the gift of my assistant class rep, Glorious Issa, an understanding deputy and a friend who always looked out for me. I also appreciate Majid, Kemi Olaoye, my besties (lol) Mariam Abdulsalam and Halimah Abdulsalam, Sammie, Tomiwa, Aroyehun Azeezah and Paul Oyediran, all of whom were great allies in the classroom. The classroom eventually became more than a learning space and became a place to share ideas, laugh, and grow together.
Some of my classmates amazed me with how much they knew. But what impressed me even more was their humility. Despite their knowledge and experience, they were always willing to learn from others. That taught me a very important lesson. No matter how much you think you know, there is always room to learn more.
We helped each other through tough times, encouraged each other before exams, and celebrated each other’s wins. I remember some of these people came to witness the naming of my baby, even at times that were not convenient for them. These are friendships I will always value.
The Role of Family
Throughout this entire journey, my family stood by me every step of the way.
My wife was incredibly patient and supportive. She understood the demands of school and encouraged me even when I was tired or unavailable. She stood by me on the days I had to answer class calls late at night or when I had to study for hours. Her support made a big difference.
I am also eternally thankful to my father. Even though he didn’t have the chance to go far in school, he made it his mission to support his children’s education. He always reminded me of the importance of getting a Master’s degree, not just for the certificate, but for the legacy it represents.
As the first child in my family, I know my actions set the tone for my younger siblings. I hope this achievement encourages them to keep learning and striving for more. I am proud to be the example my father wanted me to be.
What Comes After Graduation: Rest, Reflection, and the Road Ahead
Now that this journey has ended, I first need to rest. These past two years have taken a toll on me mentally, financially, physically, and emotionally. I need time to reflect and recover.
There are so many things I’ve missed. I haven’t been to the gym in two years, and I truly miss it. It used to help me stay healthy and balanced. I also miss spending quality time with my family during weekends, which I plan to do more often now.
One thing I am also looking forward to is volunteering again. Giving back to my community has always been important to me, and I hope to return to that in the coming months.
As for the future, I am keeping an open mind. I’m considering the possibility of pursuing another Master’s degree or even a PhD in Management Administration. But first, I plan to get a good job, rest properly, and rebuild the parts of my life I had to pause for this degree.
Appreciating Everyone Who Walked This Path With Me
Before I end this, I want to say a big thank you to all the friends who stood by me. Your constant check-ins, kind words, and understanding meant a lot. You reminded me to care for myself, even when I was too busy to realise I needed it.
I want to give special thanks to Yusuf Oyindamola who I always complain to and first asked about Master Degree from, Faith Adejunmobi who we decided on my course together at the library, Oke Jemeelah who always check in with me, Mr. Kamal Ashimiyu who supported my school fees and encouraged me to go to school, and others who encouraged me from the very beginning. Without your support, I may never have started this journey.
You believed in me, and I will always be grateful.
Thank you for reading my story. It’s been a long road, but I’m thankful for every step, every lesson, and every person who made this experience worth it.
With love and gratitude,
Kazeem, I.I
B.Sc., Business Administration (University of Ilorin)
Diploma in Management (Chartered), NIM, Lagos
MBA, Information Technology (Kwara State University, Malete)
