Today@Sam Article
Commencement Spotlight: Dorcas Temitope Adetoyinbo
Dec. 8, 2022
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd
Each semester, the Commencement Spotlight series highlights graduating Bearkats with a “can-do” spirit through challenge and service.
Dorcas Temitope Adetoyinbo
Huntsville, Texas
Master of Science in Mathematics
Dorcas Adetoyinbo has an unbeatable passion for teaching that has carried her through her college career despite the tremendous challenges she has faced.
She began her college career as a first-generation student and graduated with a bachelor’s in mathematics and statistics from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, before pursuing a master’s in mathematics at Sam Houston State University.
“In my quest to take my career to another level, I thought getting an international experience was what I needed and discovered SHSU’s history of academic achievement and friendly atmosphere can get me there,” Adetoyinbo said.
Shortly after starting her master’s at SHSU, she was diagnosed with cancer. Her upcoming treatments and degree program presented grueling challenges for her physically, mentally and emotionally. When Adetoyinbo began to feel overwhelmed, she turned to her faith, her campus community and her family for support, understanding and strength.
“I was on the verge of giving up, but I received strength from God and support from my graduate coordinators, professors, husband and daughter while I have undergone my chemotherapy, surgery and radiation. Now here I am planning to graduate,” Adetoyinbo said.
Adetoyinbo has always pursued her education with steadfast determination. She was able to reach the top one percentile in her class while studying the basic principles, theories and practices of mathematics for her bachelor’s degree.
With her impressive academic record and determination for success, she hopes to become a teacher and share her knowledge with others. Adetoyinbo is confident she will be able secure a job as a teacher after graduation with support from her husband and daughter pushing her forward.
“I encourage any student who might be facing similar or worse challenges to believe in themselves and focus on the prize that lies ahead,” she said. “That was what changed the whole game for me, I do not know what the future holds for me, but I believe God holds my future.”
As she moves forward, Adetoyinbo said she will look back fondly at the professors and others she met at SHSU who showed her kindness and supported her while she pursued her degree while fighting her illness.
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