Nigerian Lady Earns Double Masters Degrees, wins scholarships to UK and Europe at the same time after 2 years of rejection
A remarkable student, Lila Fernandez, has earned the distinction of being the valedictorian of Westwood High School, graduating with an exceptional 4.86 GPA. Her academic success has secured her a full scholarship to the prestigious Harvard University, marking a milestone in her education journey.
Lila applied to 35 universities, including Yale, Columbia, and Stanford, but ultimately selected Harvard, a dream she's harbored since the eighth grade. "Honestly, it felt far-fetched at first, but I couldn't let go of the idea. Harvard has been my top choice for as long as I can remember," she shared.
Raised in a neighborhood with limited educational resources, Lila's academic journey wasn't without its struggles. During middle school, she faced difficulties with her coursework, particularly in science and mathematics. However, with consistent effort and encouragement from her family, she was able to turn things around and gradually excel in her studies.
Lila is the first in her family to attend a university, an achievement that has filled her parents with immense pride. They supported her every step of the way, never doubting her potential. "My parents always told me that it didn't matter where I went, as long as I was pursuing my passion, they would be proud," Lila reflected.
Her dedication to community involvement was a key factor in her college applications. Through various volunteer projects, Lila has been committed to giving back to her local community, something she highlighted in her essays. She expressed a strong desire to improve the lives of those in her hometown, particularly those facing financial hardships.
Despite her success, Lila admits that staying focused in high school was sometimes a challenge. Social media and the constant pressure to measure up to others often caused her to doubt herself. "There were days when I struggled to stay motivated, but I kept reminding myself of why I started and what this meant for my future," she explained.
Looking ahead, Lila plans to pursue a degree in public policy at Harvard, with the goal of advocating for social reforms. Her ambition is to ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and represented. "I've seen firsthand the struggles that come from inequality, and I want to be part of the solution," she said.