Welcome to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, a prestigious institution of higher learning. Congratulations on being admitted into this great citadel of learning. You are among the best of the best, and we heartily congratulate you on this achievement.
As you enter the school environment, there will be many things to see and experience. Some of you may be leaving home for the first time and may not know what to expect in a tertiary setting. However, it is time to grow and experience life as an adult. We wish you a successful and enjoyable stay on campus.
As a new student at Great Ife, there are a few things that you should expect during your first week of resumption, especially on the first day. While they may seem strange or unusual, they are all part of the experience of being a freshman. Here are just a few examples of what you can anticipate as you settle into your hall of residence.
What to Anticipate as a Freshman at OAU
- Fellowships’ Assistance
Your first experience of Great Ife will be meeting members of different Churches, Campus fellowships, and the Muslim Students Society Nigeria (MSSN) who are ready to assist you with everything you need to put in place. They are willing to help you with your luggage in exchange for your attendance at their fellowship. So, expect all the attention from them on the first day as it’s a give and take situation.
- Early Morning Devotions
Starting your day with morning devotions is highly recommended, and it usually takes place during the first one or two weeks of resumption, especially if you stay in Mozambique or Angola Halls of Residence. The brethren from various fellowships are ready to wake you up as early as 5 am for morning devotions. It may seem surprising, but as time passes, you’ll get used to it.
- Registration Hurdles
Submitting necessary documents and credentials to your department and faculty is a requirement as you resume. Unfortunately, registration processes can be stressful as you may spend a long time standing in a queue under the hot Ife sun, especially for faculties or departments with a large number of students. You must be smart to get things done quickly, as faculty and departmental registrations are essential to complete early. Health center and library registrations can be done later, but stress is unavoidable as it’s part of the school’s culture.
- Freshmen’s Welcome Party
All departments in OAU organize a party for freshmen during the first, second or third week of resumption. It’s more like a “Welcome Party,” where all freshmen get to hang out and know each other, and possibly meet some seniors. It’s always a fun-filled event, but not compulsory. It’s something you should expect as OAU offers you this opportunity.
- The Struggle is Real
The OAU Anthem says it all: “For learning and culture, sports, and struggle.” Be prepared for the struggle in every aspect of OAU, from running from one lecture theatre to another only to find out that the class has been canceled, to struggling for water in the hostel. Some days you won’t even see the water. It’s all part of the struggle, especially if you stay in Angola and Mozambique. You may have to wake up very early to get a good seat in a class slated for 7 am or 8 am, and taking a bath is also a struggle. But you’ll get used to it. If you belong to the “Indomie generation,” then you’re on your own!
OAU is an exciting and challenging university, and I’m certain that you’re eager to discover the adventures that await you. I often share advice with OAU freshmen and aspirants, and if you’re considering attending, there are a few things to keep in mind. You need to be physically fit, mentally stable, and financially secure. If you possess these qualities, then you’ll undoubtedly relish your time at OAU.
Moreover, being socially adept and smart is crucial. Believe me, it will be beneficial for you. Avoid being dull and introverted. Mix and mingle with your peers and get to know them. Keep in mind that you’ll be together for the next several years.