From Struggles to Success: My 4-Year Academic Journey Ends in Victory

My journey of 4years ago finally came to a glorious and Victorious end yesterday 6th August, 2025. My final year project defense. This mark a great milestone in my life.

I woke up with a strange mix of emotions, joy, tension, and an unexplainable excitement. As I lay there, I asked myself, “Emmalex, what comes after today? Is it the labour market… or the path of self-development?” That single thought stirred up a whirlwind of feelings within me. It wasn’t just the end of a chapter, it was the beginning of something entirely new. The me in me has just started to be revealed.

I picked myself up, put on my shoes, dressed sharply, looked at myself in the mirror and smiled. I carried my copy of the project and headed to our defense lab.
It was already 9 a.m., and the rain was blessing us with nature’s own water.

When I arrived, the atmosphere was tense. Some students were pacing restlessly, others whispering last-minute rehearsals to themselves. A few clutched their projects tightly like lifelines, eyes darting anxiously toward the door. Those who had faced the panel either wore triumphant smiles or walked out with sighs and heavy faces, silently praying for mercy.

Then came the moment I had been waiting for…
“Emmanuel Ubokudom!”
The sound of my name filled the room, sending a rush through my entire body, Without hesitation, I was ready. I had worked too hard not to be. I walked in with confidence and boldness, fully believing in myself.
I greeted the panel, “Good morning, professors.”
They responded, “Good morning, Emmanuel. You may have a seat.”
I sat down, and then I was given the floor to present my project.

Firstly, I introduced my topic and defined the independent variables. I explained how I carried how the research and the results I got. Gave the summary and the conclusion,. It was not time for Question. The first question came, I tackle it with ease, that alone boost my confidence level, until I correctly answered all the questions I was asked. But somehow annoying because some corrections were made in my work. At the end, I heard, congratulations Emmanuel, you can go.

I walked out of that room not just as a student, but as someone who had crossed a major line between hard work and success.

Yes, I stood before the panel and defended my project But in that moment, I was also defending my journey.
Every doubt that once held me back was silenced with proof that I made it.
I stood up for the version of me that wanted to quit and showed her how far we've come.

My defense yesterday was more than academic, it was a declaration that I endured, I evolved, I persevered, and I excelled. I stood strong, not because the journey was easy, but because I refused to let it break me or give up.

To God be the glory.
CONGRATULATIONS To my humble self.