Here you are, in the final lap.
You survived the lectures, the exams, the sleepless nights, the endless assignments, and the moments you almost gave up. Graduation is finally in sight.
It would have been perfect if all that was left was to submit a project and take pictures in a gown.
But nobody really prepares you for this part of university life, nobody sits you down to explain what it feels like to have a strict, demanding, unavailable, or unpredictable project supervisor — the person who holds the final gate between you and graduation, the one with the power to delay or release you.
This relationship can feel overwhelming, emotionally draining, and deeply discouraging.
We asked some university graduates how they faced shege, endured it, and still crossed the finish line, and you might learn a lesson or two from their experiences.
Taiwo
My Project Supervisor was a Professor, and as an English Language student, she wanted everything to be perfect. She read my work line by line, and because of this, I ended up doing so many corrections and a lot of printing 😭
I did each chapter twice, and a funny thing was that when everyone else under her was already done, I was still in Chapter 2 or 3. It was really overwhelming, I won’t lie — especially because exams were going on at the same time.
Omooo!! I prayed, cried, and prayed. I was seriously burnt out during that period. I felt like giving up on everything because I was stressed all around. My rent was due at that time, and I even had to squat with a friend.
Thank God for a place like Potters Centre(My Church), where I could pour out my heart to God in tears and receive strength. I remember those moments so clearly. Kaiii… God is good!!
Hold God tight. Pray well, because you need wholeness and a sound mind when you get overwhelmed. Don’t be scared to get help or talk to people about what you’re going through. Strength and favour are found in the place of prayer. These experiences shaped my mindset and helped me stand strong in difficult situations. I pray God helps you too. Amen.
Ademola
My supervisor changed my project topic after I had already submitted Chapter 3 (Methodology). He said my topic would not be accepted by the faculty for defence.
It wasn’t easy at all. I pleaded a lot, but eventually, I had to oblige. He told me that it was what he felt was best for the two of us.
I’ll advice you to just calm down and listen to them. If you don’t do what they want, they won’t stop rejecting your work. They believe that since their name will be attached to the project, it has to be a perfect work.
Abisola
Mine was during my MSc. The major challenge with my supervisor was unavailability.
To survive it, I had to follow him on social media and intentionally create time to know him better. That helped me understand how to approach him and handle the situation.
If you are in a similar situation, just relax and get to know your supervisor first.
Finally, if dealing with your supervisor has made you anxious, tired, or discouraged, be assured that you will graduate.
This season will pass.
And one day, this story of yours in process will be something you survived — and maybe even help someone else survive too.
