Smart Work Triumphs: Precious Ataro, Babcock University’s Top Graduate

A Journey of Excellence and Curiosity

Precious Orevaoghene Ataro recently graduated from the Department of Mass Communication at Babcock University for the 2024-2025 session, earning a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.69 on a scale of 5.0. In an interview, she reflects on her academic journey, her experiences as a young student, and her future aspirations.

Navigating University Life at a Young Age

At just 15 years old, Ataro entered university, which is typically reserved for students aged 16 and above in Nigeria. She acknowledges the policy behind this requirement, noting that while academic ability is important, emotional and social maturity also play a critical role in university readiness. Despite her age, she managed to excel academically, attributing her success to discipline, a strong support system, and a clear focus on her studies.

Having attended a boarding school, she was already accustomed to independence and managing her responsibilities. This helped her adapt quickly to university life. “Surviving the first few months was not as difficult as some might have thought,” she said. Her experience highlights that age is not always the determining factor in academic success, but rather the presence of maturity, discipline, and support.

Choosing Mass Communication at Babcock University

Ataro’s interest in mass communication began during her secondary school years, where she participated in essay writing competitions. This passion grew into a desire to explore careers in communication and expression. While considering various universities, she opted for a private institution due to factors like distance, age requirements, and ongoing strikes at public universities. Babcock University stood out because of its supportive learning environment and positive testimonials from family friends who were alumni.

Achieving a First Class Degree

Many students dream of graduating with a First Class, but not all achieve it. Ataro feels fulfilled by her accomplishment, viewing it as proof of her commitment to excellence. She emphasizes that smart work often beats hard work, and she did not aim for a First Class initially. Instead, she focused on achieving a 4.0 GPA and then sustained her performance.

Her strategies included seeking additional resources beyond what was provided in class, such as downloading course materials from other universities. She also stressed the importance of understanding different lecturers’ expectations and maintaining a balance between hard work and faith.

Specializing in Broadcasting

Ataro majored in broadcasting, drawn to the technical aspects of TV production and the use of cameras. She excelled in courses such as news writing and reporting, film criticism, and international communication. Her final-year project explored the influence of social media activism on youth participation in protests, revealing how digital platforms shape political engagement.

The Role of Social Media and AI in Mass Communication

Social media, according to Ataro, fits within the definition of mass communication, as it allows information to be transmitted to large audiences simultaneously. However, she expressed concerns about the rise of deepfakes and the need for stricter fact-checking. She emphasized the importance of media literacy, urging individuals to critically evaluate content in an era of information manipulation.

Founding Student Evolve and Sharing Knowledge

After her graduation, Ataro noticed a growing demand for guidance among students seeking academic success. This inspired her to found Student Evolve, a platform aimed at helping students develop the mindset and strategies needed for excellence. She organized a webinar titled “Mastering the Attitude of Excellence: Achieving a First-Class Mindset,” focusing on execution and practical approaches to academic success.

Future Aspirations and Educational Goals

If given a fully funded postgraduate scholarship, Ataro would pursue film and television production at the University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts. Her career aspirations include winning an award for best documentary film and becoming a global storyteller shaping Africa’s narrative. She believes that telling one’s own story is essential to avoid distortion.

The Power of Curiosity

The best advice Ataro received at 15 was to ask questions. This advice has had a lasting impact on her, helping her avoid mistakes and stay curious. She encourages young people to maintain their wonder and invest in self-improvement, emphasizing that curiosity drives growth and success.