As I sat in class, the teacher's words cut deep: “Don't ever allow her in Science class, she can't survive there.” Hot tears streamed down my face, and I couldn't hold back the sobs. I was overwhelmed. Why me? I asked myself that question repeatedly, but the answer eluded me. Being the best student in my class wasn't enough, it seemed.

Determined to prove my teacher wrong, I made up my mind to become a Science student. Weeks passed, and I worked tirelessly to excel. But those words lingered, replaying in my head like a broken record. I failed my first set of exams, and frustration washed over me. I wanted to tell my dad that I'd rather study Law, but his supportive words kept me going: “You're the best version of yourself.” I realized I had to let go of the pain and focus on my academics. My dad's words replaced the negative ones, and I studied harder. The next exam, I did well, and confidence began to bloom within me.

But in SS2, the struggle began, then the voice whispered again: “You can't do it, give up.”

Another teacher's words pierced my heart: “Work more on yourself, you're not that brilliant... You're just confident about the rubbish you know.” My self-esteem plummeted. But I refused to give up. I created a study timetable and poured my heart into my books. Slowly, I began to improve. The day I scored 90% in that subject, confidence surged through me. My teacher's words, though still painful, became a catalyst for growth: “You said it and you did it. I've never seen a resilient student like you before.”

Self-discovery revealed my own self-doubt—I’d let negative voices define me. I knew I had to build my self-esteem.

I wrote JAMB, determined to study Medicine and Surgery. Despite setbacks and doubters, I persisted. When I didn't get admitted, I wrote JAMB again, fueled by determination. This time, I scored over 300 and I got into medical school. Success became my silent rebuke to those who doubted me. Those negative voices may have fueled my journey, but it's my resilience and self-belief that have brought me here.

Today, I tell myself: “Keep being resilient, the world is ready to support you.”

You can do it, if you believe in yourself and know that self-discovery is the first step to success.