My experience 3years after graduation

Three Years of Uncertainty

It's been three years since I graduated from university, but my journey has been far from smooth. Just a few days before my final year exams,  my mother had passed away.

The loss was a crushing blow, and it felt like my world had come crashing down around me. I was consumed by grief and struggled to focus on my studies. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't shake off the feeling of emptiness and despair.

As a result, I didn't get the chance to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, which is a rite of passage for many Nigerian graduates. Instead, I found myself struggling to make ends meet, with no clear direction or purpose.

I remember the days of frustration and desperation, roaming the streets with no clear plan. It was as if I was stuck in limbo, unable to move forward. But then, something inside me clicked. I realized that I couldn't give up, not now, not ever.

With newfound determination, I decided to take a bold step. I signed up for a keke (tricycle) hire purchase, which was a daunting prospect, considering the ₦1.6 million price tag. But I was desperate to turn my life around.

The keke became my lifeline, providing me with a means to earn a living and support myself. It wasn't easy, but I persevered, using the keke to run errands, deliver goods, and even offer transportation services.

As the months went by, I slowly began to rebuild my life. I started saving money, paying off my debts, and even managed to retake some of the courses I had missed(with the help of one barrister ) due to my mother's passing.

Looking back, I realize that those three years were not wasted. They were a testament to my resilience, determination, and refusal to give up. I learned to adapt, to innovate, and to push through even the toughest challenges.

Today, I'm proud to say that I've turned my life around. The keke that was once a symbol of desperation has become a symbol of hope and determination. I've learned to cherish every moment, to appreciate the little things, and to never take anything for granted. Many of the corps members didn't know why I was happy through the camping period because I never  knew that I will one day get there.

As I reflect on my journey, I'm reminded that life is full of twists and turns. But with courage, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

       Nwode Gabriel