Fikunmi Adeyanju is a final-year student of the University of Lagos with a strong passion for technology, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making. She joined AltSchool Africa to expand her knowledge of data science. We had a conversation with Fikunmi about her scholarship journey and here's what she had to say:
What made you choose this tech school + program in the first place?
I joined AltSchool Africa because I was fortunate to receive the CyberData Foundation scholarship, which allowed me to pursue my interest in data science. As child and now an engineering student, I had always been curious and interested in how data can be gotten from every action and it fuels any decision to be made in the real world. This scholarship gave me the opportunity, and AltSchool's practical learning approach made the journey easier for me.
If you could describe your first day vs today in 3 words each, what would they be?
During my first days, I was curious, nervous, excited but after my training with Altschool I became more confident, analytical, empowered
What was the toughest skill or concept you had to conquer? What flipped it for you?
One of the toughest things for me was learning how to think like a data scientist rather than just focusing on tools. At first, I was eager to jump straight into coding, data cleaning and analysis, but then, I realised I struggled with understanding how to approach problems from a data perspective. What changed everything was working on projects and practicing consistently. The more I applied what I learned, the more everything started making sense.
Tell me about a project you're most proud of. What problem did it solve?
One project I'm particularly proud of involved analyzing MTN data churn real-world datasets to uncover patterns on why customers churn/leave and also generate actionable insights and solutions to the issue.
I have learned how to uncover insights, identify trends, and tell stories with data that could actually support decision-making. Seeing my work evolve from simple analysis to meaningful insights has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
Was there a moment you almost quit? What kept you going?
There were moments when balancing engineering coursework, AltSchool assignments, and personal responsibilities felt too overwhelming. Some weeks felt like there weren't enough hours in the day. What kept me going was remembering why I started, my goals, AltSchool community and also the once in a lifetime opportunity provided by the CyberData Foundation scholarship. Each tiny step reminded me that the effort was worth it.
Who here — instructor, classmate, mentor — changed your trajectory? How?
Rather than one person, I'd say the community both from the Foundation and Altschool. Everyone is always checking up and willing to help. Whenever I got stuck, there was always someone willing to explain a concept, share resources, or simply encourage me. Being surrounded by people who were learning, growing, and pushing themselves motivated me to keep showing up too.
What's one thing you believed about tech/yourself on day 1 that you don't believe anymore?
I initially thought you had to know everything before you could contribute meaningfully in tech. Now I know that continuous learning is also a part of the profession. Infact you must never stop learning. You don't need all the answers, you just need the willingness to learn and adapt.
What skill surprised you? Like "I didn't know I'd be good at this."
Data storytelling surprised me. I thought data science would only be about numbers and code, but I discovered that I really enjoy communicating insights and helping people understand what the data is saying. It's a skill I didn't expect to enjoy as much as I do.
How did you handle imposter syndrome or comparison with classmates?
At some point, I realized that everyone has a different background and learning journey. Comparing myself to others only distracted me from my own growth. Instead, I started focusing on becoming better than I was yesterday. Celebrating small wins has helped me build up my confidence.
What are you taking from this school that isn't on the syllabus?
The value of community, resilience, and consistency are my biggest takeaways. Technical skills are important, but learning how to collaborate, ask for help, and keep showing up even when things get difficult is just as valuable.
Where do you want to be 1 year from now? What's the first step you'll take next week?
A year from now, I'd love to be working on impactful data projects and continuing to grow as a data professional. The first step I'll be taking next week is as simple as "Never stop Building". I must engage in more projects, more learning, and more opportunities to apply my skills in real-world situations.
What advice would you give someone just starting this program today?
Don't be intimidated by what you don't know yet. Ask questions, participate in the community, and trust the process. Some days will be challenging than others, but every lesson, assignment, and project adds up.
If you could thank one tool, language, or framework in an Oscar speech, which one? Why?
I'd thank Python. It was one of the first tools that made data science feel accessible to me. It challenged me, frustrated me at times, but ultimately helped me build confidence and bring ideas to life. It also both teary and happy memories.