“From salesgirl to master’s degree holder – 70-Year-old woman shares her inspiring graduation journey

• A 70-year-old woman, Onikeoke Mabel Ayodele Ayodeji, shares her inspirational journey of obtaining a master’s degree against all odds.
• Hailing from Ondo state, she moved to Ibadan in 1967 as her parents couldn’t afford her education.
• Financial constraints led her to work as a salesgirl in a canteen, where she endured hardship and mistreatment.
• A teacher’s encouragement after a surprise test fueled her determination to excel academically.

A 70-year-old woman, Onikeoke Mabel Ayodele Ayodeji, shared her inspiring journey of achieving a master’s degree despite numerous challenges and setbacks.

Hailing from Ondo state, Ayodele recounted her arduous journey, which began in 1967 when her parents were unable to afford her education.

Undeterred by financial constraints, she made a decision to relocate to Ibadan in pursuit of her dreams.

Initially, Ayodele completed her “Modern 3” education but found herself unable to continue her studies due to financial constraints, leaving her feeling despondent as her friends moved on without her.

To make ends meet, she took up a job as a salesgirl in a canteen, a job that exposed her to countless challenges, as the canteen was often filled with unruly patrons.

Recalling her experiences, Ayodele revealed the harsh treatment she endured from the canteen’s patrons.

She faced adversity head-on, working tirelessly to support herself and persevere in her education.

A turning point in her journey came when one of her teachers recognized her academic potential.

After a surprise test, the teacher commended her on her outstanding performance and expressed a wish that she would become a professor in ten years.

“One day, my teacher came to class when I was in Modern school and asked us to prepare for an impromptu test. After he had marked my script, he commended me and said he wished I’d become a professor by the time he returns in 10 years’ time!” she shared.

Those encouraging words ignited a spark within Ayodele, propelling her to strive for excellence despite limited financial resources and overwhelming odds.

Having successfully earned her master’s degree, Ayodele is now contemplating her next academic venture – a doctorate degree.

She humbly states that she will rely on prayer to guide her decision on whether to pursue further education.

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