One of the high points of every Convocation and Pledge ceremony at the American University of Nigeria is the quality of motivational speeches flowing from academic and student leaders. These speeches introduce incoming students to this learning community's high standards and expectations. Entering students also have the privilege of listening to inspiring testimonies from those living the AUN dream of self-discovery and transformation. Alums from around the globe send in words of appreciation and proudly recount how their AUN experience has prepared them for success and to make better life choices. At this year's Fall semester event, the Vice President of the Student Government Association, Ms. Safiya Auwal, delivered a flawless and delectable talk that underlines the trademark excellence and confidence of students who passed through these walls.
The VP of the SGA urged the new students to make optimal use of their time and the opportunities they get at AUN. She challenged them to set relevant priorities and watch AUN propel them to higher grounds.
"At AUN, you will be spoilt for choice of resources and things to do. There is a variety of exciting, informative and inspiring things available to you that can serve to enrich your learning experiences in many ways and help you hone your leadership and diplomatic skills, while also helping you develop compassion and a good sense of responsibility."
Ms. Safiya said it was after she enrolled at AUN that she "finally began to understand and enjoy studying law, with the number of resources and the amazing instructors and the challenging assignments that had me learning so much; I was given everything, all I had to do was learn."
Like the Interim President Professor Attahir Yusuf also told the new students, the SGA Vice President drew the students' attention to the array of available extracurricular activities on campus.
"We have the Campus Activities Board, different kinds of sporting activities, Community Service, unobtrusive religious activities. There are other mind-stimulating ones like the Honor Society and a Presidential Internship program which helps you gain outstanding work experience while studying.
"I know firsthand that you will not only learn to explore yourself as a leader but you also learn to look out for others, build resilience and make your voice heard. When I first joined the SGA, I discovered strength I didn't know I possessed and I have grown immensely."
Reported by Tina Bitrus