How Owobamirin Mercy Overcame Pressure and Self-Doubt to Score 292 in UTME

For Owobamirin Mercy, the journey to her UTME result was anything but straightforward. Starting out as a home-based learner before joining TGS Path Academy, she combined intense self-discipline, emotional struggles, and moments of doubt to arrive at a score of 292. Though it fell short of her initial expectations, the result has become a turning point shaping her resilience, redefining her expectations, and strengthening her ambition to study Medicine and Surgery. In this Edutimes Human Angle Series, she shares the pressure she faced, the support system that kept her going, and why she believes her story is still unfolding.

Can you introduce yourself and your journey at TGS Path Academy?

My name is Owobamirin Mercy. I didn’t start off as a student of TGS Path Academy. I initially studied on my own at home. Later on, I joined the tutorial, and it turned out to be a great decision. It was truly a blessing because I met amazing teachers and connected with supportive people who positively impacted my learning journey.
Honestly, my initial reaction was mixed. I felt sad at first and even cried for a few days because I had set very high expectations for myself. However, with time, I reflected and became grateful to God for the result. I realized that 292 is still a great score, and it motivated me to appreciate my effort while aiming even higher.

Many students struggle with consistency while preparing for exams. What did your daily study routine look like?

My study routine wasn’t exactly perfect—I would describe it as quite intense. At a point, I was studying for about 15–17 hours a day because I was determined to do well in all my subjects. Looking back, it was a bit extreme, and I wouldn’t necessarily advise others to follow that pattern. The main reason was that I started my preparation late, so I had to put in extra hours to catch up. For students preparing for UTME, I would strongly recommend starting early, focusing on understanding concepts, and giving yourself enough time to revise the syllabus properly.

How did you feel when you saw your result?

My initial reaction was mixed. I felt sad and even cried for a few days because I had very high expectations. But with time, I reflected and became grateful. I realized 292 is still a strong score, and it encouraged me to appreciate my effort while aiming higher.

What did your daily study routine look like?

Who Can Nigerian Students Turn to Over Wrong Results?

It was intense—at some point, I studied for about 15 to 17 hours daily because I started late and needed to catch up. Looking back, it was extreme, and I wouldn’t advise it. The better approach is starting early, focusing on understanding, and revising steadily.

What challenges did you face as a young girl preparing for exams?

The biggest challenge was pressure and comparison. I sometimes felt behind and doubted myself. I overcame this by focusing on my own journey and trusting God. A Bible verse that helped me was Isaiah 43:18–19, which reminded me to move forward and trust in new beginnings.

Who played the biggest role in your success?

God played the biggest role by placing the right people around me. I’m also grateful to my friends Rejoice, Eniola, Oreoluwa, Moyinoluwa, Elizabeth, Rachael, and Akoredeand my mentors, including Dr. Durotimi, Dr. Tunde, Prince Emmax, Jayboss, and Mr. TG, for their support and guidance.

How did TGS Path Academy shape your performance?

Even though I didn’t attend many physical classes, the mock exams were very helpful. I scored 305 in one of them, which motivated me to work harder. It helped me understand exam conditions and identify areas for improvement.

Did you feel discouraged at any point?

Yes, I had moments of doubt and fatigue. What kept me going was the mindset of “let me just try and see what happens.” Being around driven friends also helped push me. Even on difficult days, I made sure I studied, no matter how little.

What career path are you pursuing?
I’m passionate about studying Medicine and Surgery (MBBS). Even though my current score may not be enough yet, I’m still trusting God. This result is part of my journey, not the end.

Message to other young girls?
Believe in yourself and stay consistent. Don’t rely on motivation alone. Be disciplined, stay focused, and keep going even on difficult days.

What are your future goals?
My goals are big. I want to grow, improve, and build something meaningful. I hope my story shows others that progress is possible if you don’t give up. Fear should never stop you from pursuing your dreams.

..Pursuing Medicine Against All Odds: Owobamirin Mercy’s Remarkable 292 UTME Story