Peter Ashigbor

 

I found a home at BNU faster than I expected. In under six weeks it started feeling like a space where I could properly explore my potential. The culture of conversation and community. There were many that cared enough to show up, challenge things, and try to make life better for one another. Being named Valedictorian was a genuine honour. It felt like a responsibility and a chance to represent my peers one final time on a day that mattered deeply to all of us. What I saw on that stage was a cohort that had grown together. That moment was a direct reflection of the spaces I found myself in throughout university. Working with the Students’ Union Leadership and Trustees, engaging with Business and Law School leadership, and collaborating alongside driven student leaders shaped me as much as any module. It also reflected a willingness to see things through, to put the work in, and to apply myself consistently. I believe those habits matter for any success you’re aiming for. Academic, Social, or Career. Looking ahead, my goal is to stay curious for as long as possible without falling into tunnel vision. I want to keep learning, building, and contributing  by staying open to ideas, people, and problems worth solving.

What are your memories of being a student at BNU?

BNU quickly felt like home. It was a place defined by conversation, community, and people who genuinely cared enough to show up, challenge ideas, and improve life for one another. It felt like an environment where potential could be explored.

Why did you join the course?

The course offered more than academic content. It placed the author in spaces that encouraged growth through dialogue, leadership, and engagement with people who were actively shaping the university experience.

What did being named valedictorian mean to you personally?

It was both an honour and a responsibility. It represented a chance to speak for peers one last time and to acknowledge a cohort that had grown collectively.

What helped you achieve this accomplishment?

Consistent effort, a willingness to see things through, and immersion in meaningful environments played a major role. Engagement beyond lectures, through leadership, collaboration, and contribution, was just as important as academic work.

What advice would you give to students aiming for academic excellence?

Apply yourself consistently and commit to finishing what you start. The habits that lead to academic success are the same ones that matter socially and professionally.

What skills developed during your studies have been most useful after graduating?

The ability to engage in constructive conversation, work with diverse stakeholders, lead responsibly, and remain committed over time.

What goals or aspirations are you currently working toward?

Staying curious without narrowing perspective too early. Continuing to learn, build, and contribute by remaining open to new ideas, people, and problems worth solving.