The GST Blueprint: How I Maintained a Perfect Record at FUL
The GST Computer Based Test (CBT) is often described as the "GPA Killer" at Federal University Lokoja. Whether you're navigating the Adankolo or Permanent Site, the fear is constant.
In my first year (100 Level), I took three GST courses in the first semester and another three in the second semester. Moving into 200 Level, I took one GST course in the first semester and the final one in the second semester. By God's grace, I had straight A's in all of them. The tips that helped me achieve this record are the same ones I’ve detailed below to help you succeed.
The Power of a Positive Mindset
During my time, I heard it all. Students who were about to write or those that had already written the exams would say, "The exam is too difficult," or "Nobody can ever get an A in this course."
I refused to listen. I did not allow any student to discourage me. I rejected their claims and entered the exam hall with a positive mind. Staying positive is the first step to victory!
The Attendance Rule
I hardly missed a class. Even without marks for attendance, being in the room allows you to "download" the lecturer's logic and emphasis. The real advantage? Lecturers often drop "off-the-record" hints about what they consider most important, which helps you narrow down exactly what to master for the exam.
Front Row Strategy
I sat at the front to create a 'bubble' of total immersion. By sitting close to the lecturer, you are forced to stay alert and engaged. No noise, no phone scrolling, and no side-talk—just me and the information. This 'distraction-free zone' ensured I captured subtle exam hints that students at the back completely missed.
Active Jotting
Buying the manual is only the beginning; writing your own notes is where mastery happens. Even with materials available, I jotted down "pungent" and direct points mentioned in class. These notes became so valuable that junior students were still using them to excel long after I left that level. By combining the official GST manual with my own distilled notes, I created a bulletproof study system that guaranteed excellence.
Early Mastery & The Success Ladder
I started climbing my ladder of success from Day 1. By taking my studies seriously from the start of the semester—not just in GST, but in all courses—I built a foundation that held firm when the "trial time" of exams arrived. Early mastery gives you the luxury of time for thorough work: reading, revising, and solving past questions without the panic of a looming deadline. If you want excellence, spend your time at the beginning of the semester, not just at the end.
The 4x Repeat Rule
I studied past questions at least 3-4 times each. By the time I entered the CBT hall, I could spot the correct answer in seconds. This helps the brain to remember anything easily. Try it!
Time Management
In the CBT hall, time is your biggest enemy. I used a "momentum" strategy—securing the easy marks first to build confidence. This disciplined approach kept me calm and ensured I finished every question before the timer hit zero.
The God Factor
Hard work was the fuel, but God was the engine. My academic journey took a definitive turn when I gave my life to Christ; I realized I wasn't walking alone. I committed every course to Him in prayer, trusting the "God of Success" to crown my efforts with clarity and favor. True excellence isn't just about human effort—it’s about a divine partnership that brings ease where others find struggle.