What I Ordered vs What I Got - CMUL Edition

APSULites share their expectations on crossing over to CMUL and the reality of what they experienced.

There’s always something about crossing over into CMUL—the joy, the thrill of finally being called a “medical student,” the feeling that you’re one step closer to wearing that white coat for real, and the bitter-sweet feeling of kissing your casual dressing goodbye and saying “hello!” to corporate wear. I remember feeling all of that. We all did.

Getting into the College of Medicine is every UNILAG health student’s dream… until reality sets in.

Now, after almost two years here, I sure have a lot to say, but instead of centering my own stories, I decided to ask the 200-level APSULites who are already one semester into their journey. What did they expect before crossing over into CMUL? And now that they’re here, how has it been going? Let’s hear what some of the Dynamos have to say.

Impressive, But Demanding

I came to CMUL with high hopes, and the journey has been a mix of fulfillment and reality checks.

Before crossing into CMUL, I had big expectations — and in many ways, CMUL delivered. The structure, organization, and leadership, from COMPSSA to departmental bodies like APSUL, are impressive. The environment is peaceful, secure, and clearly built for serious academics. I’ve also grown to appreciate the corporate dress code; it gives a strong sense of purpose. Access to classrooms and shops 24/7 is a major upgrade from Akoka, and even the hostel conditions, though needing repairs, are a step up.

That said, not everything met expectations. Hostel allocation was a major letdown. After struggling in the 100 level, we hoped for better at CMUL, but many of us still didn’t get hostels, with no clear explanation. It was disappointing and frustrating. The lack of relaxation spaces for non-residents also made things harder.

Power supply issues during exams added to the stress. Writing papers without steady electricity was tough.

“The challenges were real, but so was the growth — and for that, I’m grateful.

~ Asuni Folarin

A Real Challenge

Before coming to CMUL, I thought I'd have a great campus life, good teachers, and chances to learn new things. I expected it to be fun and challenging. Now, as a 200L student, I've met some great people and had some good experiences. But the reality is tough – limited resources, frequent electricity issues, and rough living conditions. Despite these challenges, I'm trying to make the best of it.

~ Hassan Fareedah

A Mix of Both

My experience at CMUL has been a mix of expectations and surprises. Initially, I thought accommodation would be readily available, but it took until the middle of the semester for 200-level students to get hostels. Despite this, the hostels exceeded my expectations in terms of cleanliness and spaciousness.

There were a lot of rumors that CMUL was just a boring place where everybody just studied all day long, but I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant social life, which included various fun activities and events that positively impacted my academic, spiritual, and physical well-being.

Although I expected lectures to be significantly better than my previous experience at Akoka, they were only marginally improved – better organized and easier to understand, but not perfect.

Overall, CMUL has met most of my expectations, and my time here has been both intriguing and exciting.

~ Okechukwu Chioma

Room for Improvement

Honestly, my expectations were high, and I envisioned a more conducive learning environment. Specifically, I expected:

1. Better learning facilities

2. Reliable electricity supply

3. Accessible hostel accommodations with good living conditions

4. Strong and stable internet connectivity

5. A more rigorous academic environment

However, some expectations weren't met, particularly regarding hostel accommodations and electricity supply. Some of my coursemates were denied hostel space, forcing them to commute from afar. Additionally, electricity and free internet connectivity could be improved, especially considering our research needs as medical students.

I wish that the College Management would address these challenges to enhance our learning experience.

~ Oyeniran Samuel

A Final Note to the Dynamos

It’s no doubt that crossing into CMUL is a dream, but living in it is a whole different story.

You come in with a bunch of expectations until reality hits you: cramped lecture halls, confusing lecture schedules, little to no accommodation, epileptic power supply, and an academic system that expects you to be on your feet before you even find them.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or underwhelmed, trust me, you’re not crazy, and you’re definitely not alone. Many of us felt the same way when we arrived.

So here’s the thing: CMUL will stretch you, no doubt. If you’re not careful and strategic enough, it might even break you a little. But it will also build you, if you let it. You’ll find your people, your pace, and your flow. And sooner than you think, you’ll learn some survival skills you didn’t even know you needed.

Here are a few things I’ve learned that might help you:

1. Structure is your best friend: CMUL can be chaotic. Learn what works for you and stick with it.

2. Ask questions: Don’t suffer in silence. Ask your seniors, lecturers, or even your classmates - somebody knows what you don’t.

3. Don’t do it alone: This place is tough, but the right community makes it bearable. Find yours.

4. Protect your mental health: Very important! Take breaks. Sleep. Breathe.

CMUL may not always be what you ordered, and honestly, it might never be. But if there is one thing I’m grateful for, it’s growth. This little but chaotic space of ours offers growth, resilience, and clarity.

Hold on, ask for help, find your people, and most importantly, have fun!

Chronic Events

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In The Lab

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