US: Alaba, 20-year-old Nigerian, emerges 2021 overall best scholar at Syracuse university

MISS Alaba Ann Tam Danagogo, a 20-year-old indigene of Rivers State, has been named  the 2021 overall best scholar at the Syracuse University in New York.

Alaba, who graduated with distinctions in Biology Major and Minor in English and Textual Studies, among other academic accomplishments, was also awarded the prestigious 1870 scholarship by the university for another four-year Medical Studies.

The Nigerian’s academic accomplishments include the Deans List Honors, Distinction in Biology and the highest recognised 1870 Syracuse University scholarship offered by the Office of Admission of the university, said Dean of the School of Arts and Science of the school.

“The journey was tough but I made the promise to myself to do my best and make my time at Syracuse University special for me,” stated Alaba after she received her valedictory award.

“I hope to gain the necessary scientific skills to care for those in need and also bring my thoughts to bear through literature and creative writing.”

Addressing fellow students, she revealed that flexibility and resilience were the keys to her academic success.

Alaba was Students’ Speaker (valedictorian) for 2021 and she was selected as a Senior Class Marshall of the university, recognised as a Distinguished Syracuse University Scholar, having graduated summa cum laude with a 3.97 CGPA in a four-point system.

“Alaba’s study in Biology also includes independent research related to the development of the brain’s neocotext which will eventually help scientists understand certain new developmental disorders, said Ruhlandt.

He continued, “In addition to her academics, Alaba has volunteered at hospitals in Syracuse. She was also a student tutor and Event Coordinator for the Food Recovery Network and international student mentor at the Connection Programme in the Centre of International Services and serves as Vice-President of the Aikido Sports Club in Syracuse.”

President Joe Biden, who is also a 1968 Law graduate of Syracuse University, in a message posted on the university’s website, charged the 2021 graduating class to remain resilient and purposeful to positively change the trajectory of their world.