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Interview: "I Planned to Study Pharmacy, but..." Says Graduate of Veterinary Medicine

In this interview, Sulaimon Eyinade, a graduate of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and two-time Chairman of the Hospital Visitation Committee (HVC), Muslim Students' Society of Nigeria, University of Ibadan (MSSNUI), shares insights from his university journey. He reflects on his experiences, challenges, and the valuable lessons he gained during his time at the University of Ibadan.

How did you sustain your motivation for high academic achievement throughout your time at the University of Ibadan?

It was basically the love for my profession. I love veterinary medicine, I love caring for animals and helping my clients. Of course, there were tough times, but the motivation from my friends and family always kept me going. And Alhamdulillah, it was a success.

Flashing back to the beginning of your journey, what initially inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?

Well, I planned to choose Pharmacy, but it wasn't accredited the year I took my UTME, which was 2017. The next best option at my disposal was veterinary medicine, and then I developed a passion for it. Alhamdulillah, I’ve never regretted that choice.

Why didn't you consider going to another school with accredited Pharmacy, which was your initial choice, instead of choosing veterinary medicine at the University of Ibadan?

It was only UI I saw as the institution worth picking. I didn’t even consider any other institutions. Once Pharmacy wasn’t accredited, I opted for another course. Managing livestock was the next option on my list, so veterinary medicine it was.

How has studying veterinary medicine shaped your preparedness for the career path you envision?

My goal lies in not only practising vet medicine but also researching in Parasitology. I prefer practising first before going into research, as it gives one more insight into what one want to research. The course has prepared me to practise veterinary medicine anywhere in the country. It has also prepared us for the challenges we might face out there. If you can pass through vet, you can face any challenges life might present to you.

Looking back, what’s a memory from your university days that you cherish most?

Do I actually have one in particular? Not really. I have a lot of memorable experiences. The execution of the HVC & CSVC seminars, the last day at the OASIS administration, and the day I finished my final exam—the day I finally said goodbye to undergraduate life—all stood out, and the memory lingers till today.

How did you handle setbacks or failures during your time at the University?

God bless my friend, Toyyib Okewale. He was the shoulder I always leaned on during that time. He always gave hope when I thought there was no way out. He pushed me to keep going when I was about to give up. He's indeed a friend I would love to have again and again. I handled setbacks and failures by sharing them with a friend I knew would always encourage and motivate me to move forward. Again, may Allah bless Toyyib.

Describe your experience as the Chairman of the Hospital Visitation Committee, MSSNUI.

The post was actually demanding, yet it came with its benefits. As the Chairman of the HVC, I was concerned with the health and wellbeing of Muslim students on campus. At times, I would be called to attend to a student very late at night, but since I was doing it for Allah's sake, I never relented. I always jumped into action whenever my attention was needed. The benefits came from being part of the Excos; I really learnt a lot from the MSSNUI members – leadership, project management, Islamic knowledge, teamwork, and much more. Many thanks to my committee members who always responded whenever I called. We indeed did the work together. Jaza'kumullahu Khairan to them all.

Aside from MSSNUI, were you a member of any other organisation?

Yes, I was involved with the International Veterinary Students' Association (IVSA), the Veterinary News Organisation (VNO), and Independence Hall L&D, to mention a few.

How did you balance your academic pursuits with your leadership responsibilities and other extracurricular activities?

I tried to read on a daily basis. Even if it was just a page, I made sure not to skip a day without reading. And when exams came, I would hibernate myself in my room, doing just two things: reading and eating. Basically, I showed up for reading daily and did other tasks as necessary as well.

How do you think your leadership roles, particularly in MSSNUI, prepared you for life after university?

Even before life after university, I had been using what I learned from MSSNUI to lead other organisations I headed. The knowledge I gained is still what I’m using in some organisations I continue to lead now. Alhamdulillah, that I passed through MSSNUI and MSSNUI passed through me too. The lessons I learned will remain with me forever. The confidence to stand up for our rights, speak up when needed, and coordinate our followers calmly and gently while getting things done were all learned from MSSNUI.

Drawing from your journey, what key pieces of wisdom would you share with new UI students hoping to thrive academically, socially, and professionally?

Academics should come first on the list. Work hard and smart. Start your preparation as early as possible, move close to seniors, and get familiar with how questions are set. Solve past questions too. In addition, join organisations that will not only shape your thinking but also teach you how to relate with and perhaps lead people. More importantly, I recommend MSSN for Muslim students; mix with the society as you have a lot to gain from it.

As you step into this new chapter, what message would you like to share with your fellow graduates?

In everything, clarity. Be clear about what you want, as it will not only save time but also energy. John Maxwell said in one of his books that if we are clear about what we want, the world will respond with clarity. As we go into the world proper, let's know exactly what we want and go for it. Trust me, the sky is never our limit; it's just the starting point. Cheers to a bright future.