Student review [#22670] for Medical Laboratory Sciences
at University of Nigeria Nsukka - UNN

Who would think that I’ll be writing a review about a program I once cared less about.
When I got admitted into the University, I subtly didn’t like the program largely because I didn’t see the prospects plus I only just wanted to get a degree and then go on to pursue a career in the Fashion industry like I’ve always wanted. Fast forward to fourth year and I think I’m loving it.
The University of Nigeria is fondly called “The Jungle” At first, I thought it was because of the lion figure in the school’s logo. Four years down the line and I totally get why and man, it is a jungle. Not the kind with wild animals, birds and trees but the kind that glorifies tussles, makes one clap and cheer in appreciation for the barest minimum and seeks to rid one of one’s self.
The overpopulated classrooms, the financial exploitations, the outdated academic curriculum, the unconducive hostels, the light and water issues, the stressful and rather unnecessary manual registrations just make one reevaluate the whole essence of formal education.
I honestly wish the school administration can look into population control by admitting less number of students as opposed to the ridiculous number admitted each year. This will definitely solve 60% of the school’s problems. It’s unbelievable how in just my class, there are 450 students. 450 students made to use a small classroom which only contains less than half of that number and a small underequipped laboratory. I didn’t get to learn how to focus a microscope until my 3rd year due to little to no access to one. Even when I could, the long queue of people waiting to use the one or two functional ones were rather discouraging. I still stood no chance at the hospital during clinical postings where we, due to the large population are made to cluster round a scientist working on a sample to try to learn by observation as opposed to the required hands-on practicals. Since the samples and equipment aren’t enough to go round,we are left with nothing to actually practice with. What a reality.
But looking on the good side, I’ve met with and shared moments with beautiful and amazing people.
Conferences, picnics, dinners, departmental and faculty weeks – a whole week dedicated for fun activities such as 90s’ themed day, cultural day, health outreach day are some of the events that make us forget the school tussles and unwind. My 90’s themed outfit on one of the departmental weeks got huge attention and I loved every bit of the experience. Traveling to Benin City for a conference on Antimicrobial Resistance is one of the recent experiences I have had that still warms up my heart each time I remember the beautiful experience and the moments I shared with my colleagues.
My school ranks 4th in Nigeria, 11th in Africa and 1339th in the world so it’s safe to say it is recognized internationally.
I fell in love with the program, a gradual fall that happened over time. I started to genuinely study for knowledge and not just to pass exams(like I used to). The textbooks and study materials didn’t seem boring anymore. The eight hour long classes suddenly didn’t bother me anymore.
My circle of friends had a huge role to play in this somewhat sudden paradigm shift. My lecturers usually are professors in the field. They thought with so much knowledge. One of the lecturers, Dr Azubuike hands down is my favourite lecturer. Her charisma, wit, poise, intelligence and articulation is so beautiful to see. She’s a source of inspiration to me and I always look forward to her classes.
More than anything, I’ve come to realize the beauty and essence of Medical Laboratory Sciences. It is the Oracle of modern Science. It’s mind blowing how the results leaving the laboratory can essentially determine if an individual lives or dies.
Also there are numerous areas in Medical Laboratory Sciences beyond the bench. Areas such as Medical instrumentation, Bioethics, Medical research, Pharmacology, Quality management and assurance that are untapped.
It’s been such a rollercoaster and I feel postalgic writing this review knowing that I have just a few months to the end of my program.