Nigerian scholar Oladimeji Shotunde, after graduating as the best student at LASU, earned two Master’s degrees with distinction from University College London and the University of Cambridge through fully funded scholarships, overcoming early uncertainties, cultural challenges, and funding setbacks with resilience and mentorship.
From Lagos to Cambridge: Oladimeji Shotunde’s Inspirational Academic Journey
Oladimeji Shotunde, a remarkable Nigerian scholar and former best-graduating student of Lagos State University (LASU), has achieved an exceptional academic feat—earning two Master’s degrees with distinction from top UK universities, University College London (UCL) and the University of Cambridge.
In 2021, Shotunde gained national attention by graduating as LASU’s overall best student, breaking a 37-year record. Despite the accolades, he was at a crossroads—torn between pursuing further studies or entering the workforce. After receiving offers from both the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and KPMG Nigeria, he chose KPMG, driven by his passion for strategy.
While preparing for NYSC, Shotunde began applying for international scholarships. Although it was his first attempt and he had modest expectations, he received a nomination from UCL for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship. This fully funded opportunity covered tuition, living expenses, flights, and visa—worth close to ₦30 million.
He enrolled at UCL for a Master’s in Innovation and Public Policy. Although adjusting to life in a new country was initially challenging—especially as one of the few Black students in his class—he gradually found confidence and support, learning to overcome imposter syndrome and thrive academically.
Encouraged by one of his mentors, Professor Tayo Otubanjo, Shotunde set a bold new goal: pursue a PhD-track program at either Oxford or Cambridge. With just days left to apply, he submitted his application to Cambridge’s prestigious MPhil program—and was shortlisted for an interview.
Though he was not selected for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, a setback that momentarily discouraged him, hope was reignited when he was nominated for the Standard Bank Africa Chairman’s Scholarship. The award came with one crucial condition: he had to graduate from UCL with distinction. Determined, he met that requirement and officially secured his place at Cambridge.
In July 2024, Shotunde proudly completed his second Master’s degree at Cambridge, fulfilling a dream that once felt far beyond reach.
“Seeing my parents at Cambridge, knowing the sacrifices they made — I’ll never forget that moment,” he shared in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Shotunde’s journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, the value of mentorship, and the transformative power of global education.
READ ALSO : Nigerian Man Bags 100% Distinction in Both MBA and phD from UK University Despite All Odds
SOURCES: SCHOLARSHIPPARK, SCHOLARSHIP REGION
