He Lost His Dad, Worked Odd Jobs, Yet Graduated First-Class from FUOYE—Now, He’s Been Selected for a Bill Gates Program

A young Nigerian, Adedeji Ayomide Samuel, has proven that perseverance and hard work can open doors to remarkable opportunities. Samuel, a graduate of the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), finished with a First-Class degree in Mathematics, achieving an impressive 4.68 CGPA. His academic excellence has now earned him a place in the prestigious International Centre for Applied Mathematical Modeling and Data Analytics (ICAMMDA) internship, a program funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Overcoming Personal and Financial Struggles

Samuel’s journey to success was not easy. He faced immense challenges, including the tragic loss of his father just before gaining admission into FUOYE. This loss left him in a difficult financial situation, forcing him to take on menial jobs to support himself through school. Despite these struggles, he remained determined to succeed.

His university journey began with a CGPA of 3.7 in his first semester, which was already an impressive feat given his circumstances. However, he was not satisfied. With dedication, improved study habits, and a strong will to succeed, he steadily improved his academic performance. Over time, he ranked among the top three students in his department, proving that hard work truly pays off.

Selection for a Prestigious Global Internship

Samuel’s outstanding academic performance and passion for mathematics led to his selection for the ICAMMDA internship. The program, backed by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focuses on applying mathematical modeling and data analysis to real-world problems, particularly in public health and development.

This opportunity marks a major step forward in his career. Samuel hopes to use the knowledge and experience gained from the program to contribute to Nigeria’s fight against malaria and other public health challenges. His goal is to leverage data-driven solutions to tackle pressing issues, making a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.

An Inspiration to Other Students

Samuel’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and determination. Despite financial struggles and personal losses, he remained focused on his goals, ultimately achieving academic excellence and securing an opportunity that many dream of.

His journey serves as motivation for students across Nigeria and beyond, proving that no challenge is too great to overcome with perseverance. As he embarks on this new chapter, many look forward to seeing the impact he will make in his field and beyond.