Can we meet you?

My name is Oyindamola Akerele. I’m a final year student of the Department of English. I’m the third child of four children. I’m a born again Christian.

I’m a production Designer, an event planner (in the making) and an event anchor/host. I’m also the General Secretary of this association- NASELS.

Why are you studying English?

Well, well…. Studying English for me is something I’ve always wanted right from primary school. I’ve always wanted just English Literature but then UI does not offer it as a course on its own. So yeah, I’m studying English because I love to speak good English, I love to write and also love to know what went on in the head of the writer of a book before the book was written. I’m studying English literature because I love it.

So, how does it feel being a finalist?

It feels good. It’s the best feeling, really. For someone like me it comes with a whole lot of responsibilities but it feels good to know that I’m about to round up a major phase of my life and I’m ready for the next phase.

Lovely. What are the life and/or business skills you’ve learnt?

Staying in the university has taught me a lot about Friendships,tolerance and teamwork. Tolerance is one thing that has helped me so well because we are all coming from different backgrounds and don’t have the same kind of upbringing so being able to tolerate people is what helps in making sure good relationships work.

One major business skill I’ve learnt is being able to be honest in whatever line of business you find myself in. Honesty and integrity are two major business skills I’ve learnt that have helped me. Because I know I have my reputation to protect and I won’t delve into deals or make decisions that would cause a dent on my integrity.

Interesting. So, as one of the executives of the present administration, what should NASELSites be expecting?

As an executive, members of this association should expect transparency and honesty from the members of the executive council. They should expect a different approach to the way things have been done and more engagement from the executive council. As an executive body we plan to effectively engage everyone in the department and foster unity and reduce the level of segregation that exists in the department. We would want to use our administration as a time to create relationships amongst members of the association

Have you had any challenges so far?

I would not consider them challenges yet. I would just say it’s time consuming and it’s really demanding but I signed up for it so yes it’s not something I can’t cope with so I won’t consider them challenges.

How do you intend to balance your responsibility with your academics?

Basically, being able to effectively balance responsibilities is also being able to manage time effectively. One skill I’ve learnt before assuming this role is time management. Being able to prioritize the things I have to do and doing them according to their order of importance. 

My academics is a vital and important part of my being able to remain in this position so that means my academics is very important. So if I know my academics is very important I’ll prioritize it and make more time for it.

What are the things you enjoy doing (hobbies), your likes, and dislikes?

I love reading books (that have characters,it helps my imagination). I love daydreaming and imagining how my future would look like with the help of God. I love spending quality time with the people I love i.e my family and my inner circle of friends. I also live helping people. 

One of the things I hate is laziness and dishonesty. I love being proactive so I don’t like when people are being lackadaisical with duties given to them

What is your relationship status?

As at the time of this interview,I’m still single😂. Anything can happen anytime soon though. I’m not single to stupor yet😂.

What would you like to become in future?

A lot of things really. I’d love to be a successful event planner. I’ve always wanted to own a farm which I will very soon. Basically, a successful Production Designer, Event Planner, Farmer, MC/Event Host. 

I’ll also love to teach children both the word of God and life skills.

Impressive. What advice would you give to freshers and stalites alike?

Honestly, give your academics your best. Your primary reason for being in UI is because you came to study but also don’t  neglect the place of God and friendships in your life. It helps a lot.

Thank you so much for your time.

You’re welcome.