A determined young Nigerian man named Godwin Smart has overcome financial challenges and heartbreak in school to achieve a first-class degree and also win a scholarship in the United States.

Godwin Smart faced a tough financial challenge during his undergraduate studies at Tai Solarin University, Nigeria as his parent could not afford to pay for his school fees. In an interview with Legit Nigeria, Godwin narrated that he recalled his mother borrowing money to send to him.

“I remember her borrowing money from our church to pay for my undergraduate school fees from 100 level to 400 level. Despite our financial struggles, she always found a way to prioritize my education,” he said.

Despite the financial struggles that rocked his undergraduate studies, Godwin made an outstanding first-class in Physics.

After earning a First-Class degree in Physics from Tai Solarin University, he was awarded a fully funded tuition scholarship to pursue his Master’s degree at North Carolina University, United States.

Shortly before he could plan his move to the United States, Godwin lost his mother to cancer, giving him heartbreak. He could not afford to sponsor his flight tickets to the United States as his sole sponsor, his mother, had died.

Determined not to let the scholarship slip away, Godwin turned to social media, sharing his story and seeking financial assistance from Nigerians.

Moved by his resilience and determination, Nigerians rallied behind him, contributing funds that enabled him to purchase his ticket just days before his program commenced.

Godwin who had not recovered from his mother’s death at the time of commencing his studies in the United States later lost the funding opportunity. He narrated on LinkedIn that his mother’s death shook him.

“Losing my mother to cancer just months before moving to the USA shattered me. She was my greatest inspiration, sacrificing everything to ensure I had an education. Relocating and trying to focus on my studies while grieving was overwhelming, and I lost my scholarship after struggling academically. It felt like the end of the road,” he said.

However, Godwin was rescued by a mentor Dr Diane Markoff “who became my angel when I needed one most”.

According to him, Dr Diane Markoff not only restored his scholarship but also restored his hope. He emphasised that her patience, mentorship, and motherly care helped him heal and rediscover his passion for physics.

Shortly after, Godwin graduated with a Master of Science (MSc) in Physics from North Carolina Central University, won many awards and is now moving forward to a PhD.

“With her guidance, I went on to win the NSBP Best Poster Award and the APS Cash Prize Award at Houston, Texas, accomplishments that reminded me of what I was capable of,” he said.

“Today, as I prepare to embark on my PhD journey, I am filled with gratitude for her selflessness and belief in me,” he added.

Godwin expressed excitement over his successes over the years. “I am beyond excited and deeply grateful for this moment. It’s a dream come true, and as I reflect on the journey, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness,” he added in an interview,

He dedicated his achievement to the sacrifices and unwavering support of his late mother, who ignited his passion for education.

Looking ahead, Godwin will be embarking on his PhD program immediately at Auburn University, Alabama, filled with gratitude for those who believed in him.