The Inspiring Journey of Aderolayo Olowodola a Student of Corona Secondary School Agbara, Ogun State, Nigeria accepted into 44 US Colleges and Universities with 33 awarding him scholarships worth $3.5m
Would it not be stating the obvious if we said that college admissions have become more competitive? Hence, it is remarkable to witness a student defy all odds and be accepted to multiple prestigious universities. Such is the story of Aderolayo Olowodola, an exceptional individual whose unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements enable him to gain acceptance to a staggering 44 universities across the United States of America. Join us as we explore this inspiring journey together and discover the lessons we can learn from this extraordinary achievement.
From an early age, Rolayo, as we fondly call him defined his future goals and strived to reach them. He set ambitious goals and consistently strived to surpass his own expectations. His dedication and focus to academic excellence played a vital role in his remarkable journey.
In Rolayo’s words:
”As a younger child, I had faced a few health challenges that could have impeded my achievements, but I forged ahead in areas that people thought I could not succeed in. I was one of those children who took every opportunity that came my way and succeeded. Despite my quiet nature, I am an achiever. Focus and discipline are keys to accomplishing set goals. I am a multi-talented individual”.
To stand out among thousands of applicants, Rolayo recognized the importance of demonstrating excellence in academics. He maintained a good GPA, and consistently sought opportunities for intellectual growth. By demonstrating a genuine thirst for knowledge, he attracted the attention of admissions committees.
While grades are important, universities seek well-rounded students who contribute to their community and demonstrate leadership potential. In addition to his academic pursuit, Rolayo has been actively engaged in a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, community service, and internships. It was evident from his co-curricular involvement that he was committed, passionate and made an impactful contribution. He shares his college application experience below:
During my college application process, I realized the importance of experience outside the classroom. Every student has the classroom grades that colleges desire, but each college is looking for that student who brings extras to their schools. A college offered me a $100,000 scholarship as a result of the skills I acquired while playing Rugby. They did not even ask me to play Rugby for their University. Every School seeks to find a talented student not just a brilliant one.
Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT play a significant role in college admissions. Rolayo diligently prepared for these exams, seeking resources, and utilizing practice materials to achieve exceptional scores. His impressive results demonstrated his ability to excel under pressure. Though conscious of a strong academic achievement, Rolayo opines:
”My college application experience started from my primary school years. I was already building my curriculum vitae from then. In Primary five, I was the assistant captain of the Rugby Team, and I became the Captain in Primary 6. We won the ARS/EDP Rugby League for three consecutive years. In my primary six, I had written and passed the Associated British Royal School of Music Grade 3 Theory and Piano Practical Grade 1 examinations with distinction. I graduated from Corona School Gbagada as the Head boy of my set.
When I resumed at CSS Agbara, I had a goal in mind. I intended to commit to many activities as my talent could drive me. I actively played Soccer. Basketball and Rugby for the school Team. I continued with my ABRSM piano examinations and presently have 6 ABRSM Certifications. I initiated the CAN-CAN Project whereby I collect plastic waste for recycling and sell off. The income from the project in 2021 was used in sponsoring twenty students for a term at Morit International School and in 2022 I donated School Sandals and stationeries to students at a school in Ogun State.
I ranked as the gold medalist of the weeklong Manga High Mathematics competition in 2021 and 2022 where CSS Agbara was ranked 2nd and 1st respectively in the world. I currently serve as the Deputy Head boy at Corona Secondary School, Agbara.
Every achievement helped me with my college application. It made it easier to apply because I met all criteria that are required by colleges. I started early in August 2022. I got vital recommendations from a few teachers who have played integral roles in my life at CSS Agbara. I targeted Colleges to apply to and put in my applications early.
Crafting compelling personal statements and essays is a crucial aspect of the application process. Rolayo poured his heart and soul into his written submissions, showcasing his unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. His essays resonated with admissions officers, enabling them to stand out from the competition.
A key factor in Rolayo’s astounding achievement was his well-informed college selection process. He meticulously researched universities, evaluated their academic programs, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities. By aligning his aspirations and interests with each institution, he created a strong foundation for his applications. On what Aderolayo considers his greatest selling point, he says:
The selling point during my application process was the balance between my academics and my co-curricular activities. Every activity and achievement were documented through presentation of Certificates, Awards, Photographs, Videos and most importantly recommendations written by my teachers about me.
Managing 44 university applications required a strategic approach. Rolayo created a comprehensive plan, organizing deadlines, recommendation letters, and other application components. His attention to detail and organizational skills ensured that each application received the attention it deserved, enabling him to present a well-rounded profile to each university. Why did Rolayo apply to many colleges and universities?
To begin with, I applied to so many colleges firstly because there is no penalty in doing so. I also wanted to have variety of schools to choose from. The more scholarships I got from schools, the more I applied because I wanted to ease the burden of my parents who had always given me the best opportunities in life.
The journey of Rolayo serves as an inspiration to aspiring students and highlights the rewards of hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. By setting ambitious goals, excelling academically, engaging in meaningful extracurricular activities, and presenting a well-rounded profile, he achieved an unprecedented feat of acceptance into 44 US universities and Colleges. His accomplishment reminds us that with determination, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth, we can overcome any obstacles and achieve our dreams. As our principal would always say: you will never be able to score a goal until you take a shot.
In retrospect, Aderolayo advises:
“My advice to any student who wishes to study in the USA is to start early. Acquaint yourself with your teachers so they can write you a fantastic recommendation. If they do not know you, they may choose not to write it. Build your C.V. It is yours. You will use it for the rest of your life. Make Mr. Ngwoke your bus stop at every opportunity you get. Spread your wings and fly. Remember, if you do not take a shot, you will never score a goal”.
At Corona Schools, we take great pride in our unwavering commitment to nurturing the holistic development of each child. Our focus extends beyond academics, as we actively encourage participation by every student in extracurricular pursuits that distinguish them from their peers. Rolayo’s outstanding accomplishment serves as a powerful testament to the significance of dedication, diligence, and tenacity.
Congratulations Rolayo, keep soaring high!
To learn more about all our schools and for information about how to enrol your child(ren), kindly call our admission team on:
+234-9031110555,
+234-9031110999
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Credit:
Ike Ngwoke
Careers and Admissions Manager
Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Nigeria
