Nationwide — Gabriel Eze, a 23-year-old from Nigeria, recently graduated with honors in Petroleum Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. What is remarkable about Gabriel’s journey is that he worked as a plumber to fund his college education.
Gabriel’s interest in plumbing began in secondary school when he assisted a plumber working at his school. Due to financial constraints, he decided to pursue plumbing at the age of 14 and completed a four-year apprenticeship while juggling his studies.
Driven by his passion for mathematics and engineering, Gabriel transitioned to Petroleum Engineering, attracted by its ties to Nigeria’s petroleum industry. His background in plumbing provided him with a solid foundation in understanding fluid dynamics, a critical aspect of his new field.
Despite facing financial challenges, Gabriel secured scholarships and ran a plumbing business to finance his education. With unwavering determination and the support of mentors and family, he stayed motivated through tough times.
Gabriel’s hard work paid off when he graduated with an impressive cumulative GPA of 4.65, a moment celebrated by his community and peers. Moving forward, he plans to pursue advanced studies like a master’s or PhD and complete the National Youth Service Corps program, with aspirations of collaborating with reputable organizations in his industry.
While proud of his academic accomplishments, Gabriel remains dedicated to plumbing, highlighting that success goes beyond academic achievements and underscores the significance of diligence and focus in every pursuit.
