Congratulations to Shining Graduate Tosin Ajibulu

Feeling valued as a student is important to Tosin Ajibulu (BA '22). When selecting a university, she had the opportunity to interact with people from several universities, and she recognized that ULethbridge is filled with people who care about students. Drawn to the beauty of the Lethbridge campus and excited by the opportunity to make connections with professors and peers, Tosin chose the University of Lethbridge.

Having a mindset that sees positive things and opportunities rather than negatives adds so much colour to one's life and makes the journey as a student more enjoyable.

Meet Tosin| Loving. Problem solver. Strong.
Program: Bachelor of Arts | Major: Political Science

What was your most memorable uLethbridge experience

My most memorable moments would have to be in class with my political science professors. I know it may not sound like the most exciting thing, but I genuinely enjoy my political science classes. Picture it. Physically, I am sitting in class. I'm listening to the lecture, and sparks are going off in my mind—I love to think and see the world in a new way and learning new things helps me do just that. When I leave the classroom, I carry with me all that I have learned and share it with anyone willing to listen. Generally, third-year and fourth-year political science classes have fewer students, and there’s this sense of intimacy that you get with the professors.

A typical day in class features me asking three questions and making several comments (HAHAHA, I talk a lot!). Despite this, my political science professors answer my questions diligently and carefully. Their responses are intelligent and are never rushed. I leave the classroom knowing that my thoughts matter.

What is the most important lesson you learned at ULethbridge?

The three most important lessons I have learned so far at the University of Lethbridge are kindness, being understanding, and making the best of what you have got.

I have met so many professors and staff who are always kind and understanding. I am so grateful to them for helping and supporting me during challenging times. They made it easier to navigate student life.

I have also learned that although ULethbridge is a smaller university, the school has various opportunities and resources that more students need to know about and take full advantage of. I do my best to spread information to the students as best as I can concerning these resources, and I am constantly shocked at how many students are unaware of what is available to them. I believe any student can have a successful academic journey at the University of Lethbridge; it's all about making the best of what the university has to offer.

Is there someone specific who has had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

I would say professors John von Heyking and Geoffrey Hale. Sorry, it's so hard to choose between them. Prof JVH taught me about boldness—being bold about what you stand for and believe in. He embodies the core principles of liberal education, and I have learned a lot from watching him. His passion, values, and caring nature have helped and inspired me to become a better student and person.

Prof Hale is knowledgeable, and he believes in pushing his students towards perfection. I have always had the spirit of excellence, but prof Hale helped to further bring that out in me. He always made time for me outside the classroom and always helped me navigate things concerning my future career. He taught me how to think even more intelligently. I am so grateful to him for that.

I would also like to thank God, the most important person in my journey at the U of L. His amazing love, wisdom and counsel got me through everything and made me the individual that I am today. His involvement in the smallest and biggest things in my life made my student journey beautiful. From my outfit planning to my relationships, and even daunting 15-to-20-page papers, He was with me always. With Him, I discovered purpose at the University of Lethbridge and beyond. I couldn’t have done it without Him!

Is there anything you wish you knew in your first semester that you know now?

I wish I knew that the way you think about the University of Lethbridge and the City of Lethbridge matters. Having a mindset that sees positive things and opportunities rather than negatives adds so much colour to one's life and makes the journey as a student more enjoyable.

What advice would you give to those about to begin their ULethbridge journey?

My advice to those beginning their journey at the University of Lethbridge is this:

Relax! You are about to embark on your post-secondary academic journey, but you are also about to embark on a journey that shapes you. You will face challenges, tests, and trials, but more support is available to you than you think. Believe that someone cares about you—because they do—and know that you are not alone. Make up your mind to bring out your best self, showcase your qualities, and use the resources available to you. Be open to meeting new people and partaking in healthy experiences. Ask a lot of questions and find out what is available to you. Refuse to feel disadvantaged regardless of what happens. Love your school, your professors, your classmates, your campus and the daily things of life. Know that you are not just at the University of Lethbridge to get a degree but to impact the school, people and your city with the investment of your personality. Make up your mind to be a problem solver and help the school and students somehow. Be a part of making your environment better than when you arrived. As you serve others, you begin to discover your true self. Much love. - Tosin Ajibulu

Favourite class: political philosophy

Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: volunteering and attending club meetings (held by clubs on campus)

Favourite place to study: library level 10 cubicle closest to the wall at the very end of the section (the more "chatty" section)