CEDARVILLE — A 19-year-old graduated Cedarville University Saturday, May 6, after skipping several grades and emigrating out of his home country of Nigeria.
David-Bryne Adedeji proudly showed himself getting a diploma and walking off stage during the graduation ceremony.
“Remember that name because you’ll probably be hearing it again one day,” News Center 7 Reporter Brandon Lewis claimed after digging deeper into the mangenue’s history and potential future with his newly earned degree in computer science.
Adedeji began his academic career in his hometown of Lagos, Nigeria.
After excelling in his school work, he was able to skip several grades, take on the challenge of leaving home to immigrate to the United States, and then complete his final high school year at a West Virginia school. What was more remarkable was that he accomplished this feat at just 15 years old.
Upon completion of his final high school year, he was accepted into Cedarville University at the young age of 16 years old.
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Adedeji admitted this transition had its own challenges.
“My time at Cedarville University, it was interesting. The first year was rough. I was a 16-year-old with freedom. Let’s put it that way,” Adedeji explained.
His sophomore year did not get any easier. His father passed away, causing Adedeji to contemplate dropping out.
“My mom was like, absolutely not. Whatever we’re going to, whatever it takes, we’re going to make sure you finish college,” Adedeji said. “And so, it was like a week after he passed, I came back to school, finished up that semester. Wasn’t the greatest grades but after things kind of picked up and I got comfortable in the environment and setting.”
Through the hardships, he persevered and was able to walk across the graduation stage at 19 years old.
“In the grand scheme of things, it’s just a stepping stone to get where I want to be. So, I know I’m doing well, but I’m not where I want to be yet,” Adedeji stated.
Adedeji continued to explain that his ultimate goal was to work in the education field to help others.
“In my ideal universe, I want to create a school for high school and under that allows you to do whatever you want,” Adedeji explained. “You tell us what you want to do. We’re going to help you get there. And, it’s fully paid for as well. And then if possible, if I have that kind of money, I will sort of put kids through college and like fund scholarships.”
His final advice to others was to press on.
“Give it your all. Give it 1,000% and 1. But, enjoy what you’re doing. It’ll make it so much easier and you’re going to accomplish so much more,” Adedeji said.