- Current Graduate Program: Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering
- Program Schedule: Full-Time
- Delivery Method: In-Person
- Current Supervisor: Professor John Daniels
- Position: GPSG Vice President
- Anticipated Graduation: May 2027
- Undergraduate Institution: Federal University of Technology, Akure. (FUTA)
- Undergraduate Degree: Civil Engineering
- Hometown: Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Dream Job: Consulting Professor
What do you hope to accomplish this year in your role as an Executive Board member of the Graduate & Professional Student Government?
I am working towards accomplishing at least these two goals:
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To work with my co-executive members on making the 23rd Graduate Research Symposium a big success for the UNC Charlotte Research Community.
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To provide graduate students with important information and resources that would make graduate student life more memorable and enjoyable. Such as to research and share uncommon opportunities that many graduate students don’t easily come by.
What’s your favorite graduate school memory so far?
I think the Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG) election period is one of my favorites. In retrospect, it is interesting to think about how I engaged people to vote and shared my plans with them. I think I might like to do something like that again, not necessarily for politics or for a position, but to engage a larger audience about a goal and make it happen.
How can a new student make the most of their semester/graduate experience?
From experience, one of the important skills a new student needs for an awesome graduate school life is to practice “Effective Communication”. I am not referring to the ability to make a good presentation or pitch investment, these are great! However, I am referring to asking people questions when and where necessary, asking people for help, discussing difficult moments with friends, and creating a community of friends that communicate with one another. In my opinion, this is also effective communication, and it is very crucial for a graduate student. A lone-wolf strategy must be avoided at all costs because it does not help you maximize your time, and the resources UNC Charlotte has provided. The people around you; friends, research group mates, faculties and lots more are all part of the resources in my opinion.
How did you find a work-life balance?
I believe rest is as important as meeting deadlines. I plan according to deadlines and in between meeting these deadlines, I enjoy the process by taking myself out for a treat, talking to my family, watching soccer games, listening to music, attending church services, and going out with friends.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Fantasies and Realities are divergent”, I heard this from a friend, and it stuck! So, as you are trying to make your fantasies become a reality (it could be anything like making your aspirations come true), do not forget it is a huge task, so enjoy the moment and appreciate some of the converged fantasies-the little big wins!