You are Not Yet a Finalist

By: Adeniji Sodiq Ademola

As a final year student of a National Diploma programme in a Nigerian Polytechnic, it is important to remember that graduation is not the end of your educational journey. While it may feel like a significant accomplishment to have completed your ND programme, it is important to recognize that you are not yet a finalist in your education.

As the academic year comes to an end, final year students of National Diploma in The Polytechnic, Ibadan are filled with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds. Many of them are already planning graduation parties and looking forward to taking a break from education. However, it is important to remind these students that they are not yet finalists but just taking a break from education as they would be going back for Higher National Diploma (HND) or a First Degree programme.

Taking a break from education after obtaining a National Diploma is not the end of the road. It is just a stepping stone towards achieving greater academic heights. The HND or First Degree is the next level of education that will help students gain more knowledge and skills in their chosen field of study. It is therefore important for final year students to approach this break with caution and not get too relaxed or carried away.

One of the dangers of being too joyous and relaxed during this break is that it can lead to complacency. Some students may feel that they have achieved their goals and do not need to put in any more effort. This can be detrimental to their future aspirations, as it may affect their performance when they eventually go back for their HND or First Degree programme.

Another danger of being too relaxed during this break is that it can lead to a loss of momentum. Students who take too much time off may find it difficult to get back into the academic mindset when they eventually return to school. This can lead to poor performance and even failure.

It is therefore important for final year students of National Diploma to use this break wisely. They should take time to reflect on their academic journey so far and set goals for themselves for the future. They should also engage in activities that will help them stay mentally alert and academically focused, such as reading books related to their field of study, attending seminars, or taking online courses.

In conclusion, while it is important for final year students of National Diploma to celebrate their achievements, they should not get too relaxed during this break. They should use this time wisely and prepare themselves for the next level of education. By doing so, they will be better equipped to achieve their academic goals and succeed in their chosen careers.