I refused to be ordinary — UNIBEN first-class Law graduate

Hannah Kintum, a 21-year-old law graduate from the University of Benin, has become the subject of admiration after earning a first-class degree with a cumulative grade point average of 4.69. She completed her studies in three years, demonstrating exceptional dedication and academic rigor. Born and raised in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, Hannah is the third of seven siblings. Her journey to academic success began in secondary school, where she initially struggled with focus on academics until she realized her potential in the first year of secondary school. By the end of her secondary education, she ranked first in her class at Our Lady of Apostles College in Yaba, Lagos. Hannah gained admission to the University of Benin in 2021. She chose law as a career path early in life, influenced by her desire to have her voice heard. Her parents supported this decision, believing it aligned with her aspirations. Despite initial doubts about her ability to compete with peers in her class, Hannah quickly proved herself. In her first year, she achieved the highest CGPA in her class, setting the foundation for her future academic achievements. She resolved to maintain a first-class standing throughout her undergraduate program. Throughout her time at the University of Benin, Hannah faced the challenges inherent in studying law, a course widely recognized for its complexity. However, she found support from both her faculty and the university administration, which ensured students had access to necessary resources. The university’s library remained open on weekends, allowing students to study beyond regular hours. Lecturers also played a crucial role in facilitating learning through engaging instruction. Additionally, the institution encouraged participation in moot court and mock competition activities, providing practical exposure to legal advocacy. Hannah's approach to studying was methodical and disciplined. She emphasized the importance of avoiding mediocrity and striving for distinction. This mindset fueled her efforts to excel academically. During exam periods, she often sacrificed sleep to ensure thorough preparation. Her study strategy involved multiple readings of material, followed by detailed notes on key legal principles and case references. She organized these notes systematically, reviewing them repeatedly before exams. This structured approach enabled her to retain complex information effectively. Time management was another critical factor in her success. Hannah maximized her free days, using weekends for extensive revision. She frequently visited the university’s basement area, where she dedicated long hours to studying. This routine allowed her to maintain a balance between academic work and personal life, ensuring consistent progress throughout her studies. Her commitment to excellence extended beyond classroom learning. Hannah actively participated in both internal and external legal competitions, representing her institution at national and international levels. These experiences honed her skills in argumentation and legal reasoning, further enhancing her academic profile. Her perseverance and strategic approach to studying ultimately led to her achieving a first-class result, marking a remarkable milestone in her educational journey.