An Open Letter to Graduates with Lower Class of Degree- MS Ingawa
Graduating with a lower grade can be deeply frustrating, especially when navigating the job market. However, it is important to understand that a lower grade is neither a death sentence nor a predictor of failure in life. Many highly successful professionals began their journeys with modest academic results. While the path may be different and sometimes longer, success remains entirely achievable.
Below are practical steps that can help you move forward with confidence and clarity:
1. Remedy It
Many top employers set minimum grade requirements (often a 2:1 and above), not because candidates with lower grades are incapable, but because grades provide a convenient way to filter large volumes of applications. One effective way to address this is by pursuing an advanced degree. Most postgraduate programs accept candidates with lower classifications, and a master’s degree can significantly strengthen your profile and improve employability. That said, be mindful of timing; consider age, career goals, and opportunity cost when making this decision.
2. Skill Up
Recent hiring trends, including moves by firms like KPMG and EY to consider candidates with second-class lower (2:2), signal a shift in focus from grades to skills. Skills are fast becoming the real gatekeepers. Take professional certifications seriously and invest in developing relevant, in-demand competencies within your field. Strong skills can distinguish you from peers and make you valuable to employers, especially when specific expertise is urgently needed.
3. Volunteer
Sometimes, all that stands between you and better opportunities is relevant work experience. If your grade is limiting your chances of securing a first formal role, consider volunteering or interning with organizations aligned with your background. Prioritize places close to you to reduce costs, particularly if the role is unpaid. Use the opportunity to learn, contribute meaningfully, and demonstrate your value. Many people have secured strong recommendations and landed their dream roles through this route.
4. Start Small
Life is a journey taken step by step. Wanting to work with IOCs, Big Four firms, or top-tier banks does not mean you must start there as a graduate trainee. Smaller firms, emerging consultancies, oil servicing companies, and new-generation banks often have more flexible entry requirements. Starting small allows you to build skills, gain experience, and grow professional networks. Over time, these experiences can make you even more valuable to larger organizations.
5. Be Ready to Hustle
Sometimes, despite best efforts, conventional routes may not work out. In such moments, it helps to “act like a dropout”, set aside academic pride and focus on survival, learning, and growth. Be willing to take on humble or unconventional roles. There are countless stories of degree holders who started with menial jobs, proved their dedication, and were later absorbed into senior roles based purely on performance and understanding of the system. Experience, attitude, and work ethic can speak louder than certificates.
6. Keep the Faith
Beyond effort and strategy, faith matters. Life unfolds by the will of Allah, and success ultimately requires grace. Keep praying for guidance, opportunities, and favour. At the same time, remember that grace often meets hard work. Consistent effort, patience, and sincerity invite blessings in ways we may not immediately see.
Finally, your grade may shape your starting point, but it does not define your destination. Stay resilient, keep learning, work hard, and trust the process. Your journey is valid, and your success is still within reach.
MS Ingawa is the founder of Ingawa Fellowship Forum (IFF), an educational and community-driven foundation.
Thats sort of a good reply there😂
But Mr ingawa has a point !
Though, the question here is how would he be able to transform the whole tax reform thing into music that all can comprehend. But surely it will reach like –All.
He is not just useless, he is extremely useless. Do you really think he has any genuine concern for the North? In his own state, countless people have been killed or kidnapped by bandits, yet he is busy dancing omologo. If that isn’t the definition of uselessness, then what is?
He is not just useless, he is extremely useless. Do you really think he has any genuine concern for the North? In his own state, countless people have been killed or kidnapped by bandits, yet he is busy dancing omologo. If that isn’t the definition of uselessness, then what is?