In this interview, Faith Aduragbemi Olabisi, an 18-year-old undergraduate of the University of Ilorin, who recently became a chartered accountant, spoke with BIOLA AZEEZ on how she was able to achieve the feat.
What is your background?
My name is Faith Aduragbemi Olabisi. I hail from Osun State and I’m the first child in my family. I am a Christian.
Are your parents (or relatives) chartered accountants?
Yes, my mother is a chartered accountant. My mother is a tax specialist with Africa’s leading cement company, Dangote Cement Plc, Ikoyi, Lagos.
In first instance, why Accounting?
When I was young, my mother taught Business Studies and from there I picked so much interest in trial balance and ledger preparation while also assisting her in grading her students’ scripts.
Why are you studying Accounting?
I have observed over time that Accounting is a stable profession with regular demand. With the right certifications and experience, accountants can move to senior roles with beautiful career growth. They can even start their own accounting practices.
What was the motivation to aspire to become chartered accountant?
I always listen to my mother’s conversations with her bosses and colleagues which always motivate me. I discovered that accountants are well respected in the society and they have integrity and credibility. They also hold senior positions like CEOs and CFOs.
How did University of Ilorin helped to actualise your dream?
Both the University of Ilorin and my ICAN Tuition center in Ilorin, Springboard Associates, helped me to actualise my dream. I appreciate the university because of the excellent teaching skills in the lecturers. The university also ensured that the school exams do not clash with ICAN exams at any point. Springboard Associates on the other hand is the best tuition centre I could ever ask for; my lecturers are the best. All courses which appeared difficult were demystified by these tutors.
What are the forms of assistance that your parents gave you to attain this feat?
My mother gave a standing rule which was binding on me throughout my professional exam journey: I must neither cook nor wash clothes two weeks before the exams. She will send in money for me to order all my meals and pay the person who will do my laundry. My mother completed all my ICAN registrations. She will even download my dockets for me two days to exam. The only thing I do is to print it out and wait for the exam day to come. Constant encouragement is her way of life. She usually says that, “the only thing for you to do is read and pass, leave every other thing to me.” Her support and assistance in all aspects have really helped me in this area.
What advice do you have for your peers?
Hardwork pays. No positive step in the right direction is unachievable. Just put in your best, pray hard and watch how event will unfold excellently for you.
Where do we see you in the nearest future?
I aspire to get added qualifications like ACCA UK & CISA by God’s grace. I hope to work with the Big 4 Accounting firms. So help me God.
What are your favourite food, song and hobbies?
I’m neutral about my choice of food. I have no favourite song but I love watching movies at my leisure.
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