Hi, I’m Durojaiye Michael Kolade, and I have a passion for spreading joy and laughter. Coming from a large, close-knit family in Nigeria, my path has taken me far from home to study Bioprocess Engineering at Dublin City University in Ireland. Beyond my engineering pursuits, I am an artist who loves drawing and creating music. My ultimate ambition is to develop sustainable waste management solutions and launch a plastic recycling plant in Nigeria, significantly reducing pollution in our oceans and landfills.
My academic journey is about much more than just earning a degree; it is a profound story of resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for both myself and my home country.
How I became passionate about Bioprocess Engineering
Raised in an average-income household with strong moral values and an emphasis on education, I attended the World of Faith Group of Schools before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Science from Wesley University of Science and Technology. While I initially considered a Master’s in Biotechnology and Brain Innovation, I soon discovered that the constant evolution within the field of Bioprocessing offered the most impactful way to drive real change in Nigeria.
My vision is to transform Nigeria into a welcoming global destination, much like Dublin. I aim to construct bioreactor plants, starting with a pilot project in my local community to provide essential light and water resources.
When I’m not focused on my studies or these professional goals, I enjoy unwinding with a game of basketball with my friends.
Why I chose Ireland to study abroad
Studying abroad was more than just academic advancement; it was about shifting my environment to spark curiosity. I wanted to immerse myself in new pedagogical approaches, believing that experiencing education through a different lens would fundamentally enhance how I process and synthesize information.
This felt like a personal social experiment. Previously, while working with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development in Nigeria, I served as a lead trainer and project manager. Teaching new skills to underserved populations taught me firsthand the transformative power of education.
Though I initially looked toward Japan, I ultimately chose Dublin to put my mother's mind at ease regarding my safety. Given my family history, finding a secure environment was paramount, and she felt reassured by the choice to find a city that prioritizes peace and stability.
My advice for other international students
Online Result was an invaluable resource for navigating the university selection process. My biggest advice for prospective international students is to conduct thorough research, particularly regarding accommodation and financial planning.
While budget constraints can make choosing a university difficult, it is crucial to remember that you can apply for grants and scholarships. Securing an Online Result grant felt like a dream; I never imagined it would be possible. I strongly encourage others to research all available funding opportunities diligently.
Moving abroad always comes with challenges, particularly when acclimating to a completely different culture. Yet, I remained steadfast in my plan to connect with fellow intellectuals from around the world—though I certainly wasn't prepared for how cold Ireland would be!
Financial hurdles initially delayed my visa, but I stayed resilient, continuing my community work by funding the school expenses for three young girls in need. I refused to let discouragement derail my long-term goals.
After finally securing my finances and visa, I arrived late and had to work hard to catch up with my peers. Receiving the grant award felt like a profound blessing, and sharing the news with my mother—who was understandably overwhelmed—was a moment I will never forget.
Living in Ireland has been an incredible experience filled with cultural discoveries. I have even embraced local traditions, like carving my first pumpkin—something I had never heard of before arriving here!
My cohort is a vibrant mix of students from Nigeria, India, Brazil, and China. Dublin has truly been a dream come true; I am surrounded by diverse perspectives and have been met with such kindness from everyone I encounter.
I am continuously grateful for the willingness of those around me to go the extra mile. I feel truly privileged to have this experience and am deeply thankful for the support I have received.
My plans for the future
My current focus is absorbing as much knowledge as possible to realize my goals. By addressing Nigeria's waste management and landfill crisis, I hope to contribute to a cleaner, more developed nation. Ireland’s immaculate environment serves as a constant inspiration for what I want to achieve at home.
Don’t forget
Education is our most powerful tool for societal progress. Engaging with different cultures broadens our perspectives and fuels personal growth. While the path hasn't always been easy, my faith and resilience keep me focused on turning these dreams into reality.