Cracking the Excellence Code

Cracking the Excellence Code- how to excel in your studies.

When my sister in writing, Chisom, reached out to me, requesting in her usual sweetly persuasive manner, that I write about the theme, I answered, “Yes ma, with all pleasure.” In my mind, it’d be just to tell how I aced the A’s and B’s those days. No biggie!

However, it was when I began to pen down the journey that it dawned on me that, although I’ve received accolades from family, friends and acquaintances alike for my academic feat, no one …and I mean no one had actually asked me to tell them my story.

Well, I’m not much of a storyteller, but I will try; and for the purpose of this theme, I’d like to share with you some tips that helped me in my quest for academic excellence; hoping it helps the one who reads.
May I also say that I’m writing from experience, bearing in mind that our realities differ. So, inasmuch as my story is relatable, I hope you equally appreciate the differences therein.

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It all began from the Freshmen Orientation Centre that year. A girl was still basking in the euphoria of being a new undergrad. As was accustomed to such gatherings, guest speakers admonished us on making the most of our stay in the institution. My attention was held bound when a certain Prof Stella Ekpe talked about making a first class. It’s interesting that, that was the first and last time I’d ever see her. One thing that stood out in her short but powerful speech was her statement that, “Whatever class of degree you want to graduate with begins with your first year results!”
For me, this was the first step to every other action I took regarding my studies. So, here’s me saying:

1. Know what you want from the outset.
I understand that not every student is self aware from the beginning, but it pays to count the cost which building your tower will require from the very start. I highly doubt a person walks into excellence inadvertently, which is why knowing what one wants from the very beginning is the first step towards excelling in your studies. Write it down and run with it.

2. Simplify the Process.
I consider this one of the most effective ways to achieving anything.
Sounds too simple…but it’s essential.
And in the spirit of simplifying things, permit me to tell you that making an ‘A’ is very easy. In plain language, all one needs to do is to score certain marks in tests and exams. For every course I took, I wrote the grade I would have in it. If it will help, give yourself a score limit you must never go below and work towards beating yourself to it. You may notice I emphasize on writing a thing down. It is intentional. There’s something about writing goals down. When you put pen to paper, it’s as if you’re subconsciously giving yourself a command. Your motivation and self accountability increases.

3. Your academic self confidence comes from your within.
Success and failure begin from the mind. I decided ab initio that every course worth passing, was worth passing well. Believing that you need to ‘not fail’ a course comes from a place of inferiority and resignation. No matter how tough a course was said to be, I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself. So, instead of dreading a course everybody is scared of, I loved it. For me, it was a chance to prove a point…not to anybody but myself: that I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.

4. Always raise-the-bar for yourself.
Not to sound cliché but “aim for the moon, so even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
Like I said, after the revision of each course work, I write down the grades I must get for each course. And with due respect, I do not in any way mean a mere wishful thinking or some words of faith. Be very certain of the grades. Don’t look at getting an ‘A’ when you’ve only put in the work for a ‘C’. You will not only get tired of pre-grading yourself, but feel discouraged ere long.

5. Understand your pattern of learning and develop your style of studying.
I discovered quite early that I am a visual learner. I learn better when I’m looking at the lecturer. So, I hardly missed sitting where I could clearly see my lectures cos I grasped better that way. Self discovery is about knowing exactly what works for you. Identifying and developing a pattern of studying that gives you the best result is very important. Once this is done, add the spice of diligence to it. It’s of importance cos there will always be times when you’ll feel like relenting but you must never lose your guard.
Same goes for the reader in you.
Talk about if you are a midnight reader, evening reader, early morning reader, afternoon reader, etc.
It is your duty to know which time of the day you assimilate what you read, better. Don’t copy others. Discover!
I remember when most of my classmates would come to spend the night in my hostel and I’d end up sleeping till day break. They would join me to sleep but when we got to the exams hall the next day, they would be shocked that I’ve got no qualms. I am an early-evening reader; not the usual midnight ‘jacker’. I don’t joke with my night sleep. Until I told them to stop trying to copy my reading style, most people assumed I don’t read at all simply cos I don’t burn the proverbial midnight candle. What rocks another’s boat might sink yours.

6. Above all, Do not forget the God factor.
Yes, I graduated the best in my set, but there were ‘A’s I got that were plain miraculous. I can’t give tips without telling you to put God first! He has given you all that it takes to succeed at whatever you do, it is just for you to believe and tap into His abundant resources. However, putting God first should not in anyway mean that you should focus on prayers at the expense of your studies. Even the scripture admonishes us to study to show ourselves approved….

If you read to this point, it gladdens my heart that you are ready to do the extraordinary as regards your academics. I can assure you that there’s no mountain too high for a determined soul. I hope this helps anyone struggling academically. With sincere efforts, nothing in this world is unachievable. Stay focused.
See you at the top!