“We joined ANC after O/Ls and prepared for a unique learning experience in the U.S.”
Aaron Segaram, CPL (MEL), BBA (Northwood, USA) ChandulaSamarakoon, PPL, IR, CPL;BBA (Northwood, USA)
ANC alumni, Aaron and Chandula, are well prepared to embark on a career in aviation and are grateful to ANC for preparing them for a successful learning experience in the USA.
They studied in the local curriculum, Aaron at S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia and Chandula in Nalanda College, Colombo, and joined ANC right after their O Levels to complete the Bachelor’s in Business degree awarded by the Northwood University, USA. Chandula pursued a double major in International Business and Management, whereas Aaron majored in Marketing.
Both of them graduated in 2016 and went to America to start a career as commercial pilots: Chandula turned his passion for aeroplanes into a lucrative career and Aaron followed in his father’s footsteps. ANC congratulates both of them on their accomplishments at a young age.
Given below are some excerpts from the interview with Aaron and Chandula:
Q: Why did you want to join ANC right after O Levels, whereas your peers opted for A Levels?
Chandula: I studied in the local curriculum. Everyone who completes A Levels successfully is not guaranteed a place in a state university in Sri Lanka; on the other hand, US colleges and universities accept O levels for admission. And one can choose among thousands of majors in the areas of business, engineering, medicine, healthcare, arts and social sciences, natural sciences, and many more. This is a great opportunity, for it enables students to be career- ready at a young age. It’s thanks to ANC I could graduate at the age of 19 and join Skymates Flight Academy in Texas to get my professional flying career certificate.
Q: Can you describe your learning experience at ANC?
Chandula: Northwood is a specialized business school in the US, and its curriculums are industryfocused. ANC also offers educational opportunities that combine academics and career skills. The most important feature of our education was that our professors encouraged us to think critically, analyze the subject matter, and transfer knowledge from theory to practice.They discouraged competition in class but encouraged participation and team work through group projects, presentations, field visits and assignments. We also had access to online lesson mat e r i a l s t h rough Northwood’s Blackboard Learn in addition to materials available in the ANC librarybooks, magazines, and eBooks prescribed by US partner universities. Getting good grades was only a part of our learning experience. I maintained a GPA above 3.5 and notched up “High Achiever’s Award” throughout my stay at ANC. Our exposure to US education system came in handy once I started my studies and professional training in the US.
In addition to academics, what are the other opportunities for growth and advancement?
Aaron: It’s not only academics, we had abundant opportunities to pursue our hobbies and develop a good personality. I was an active member of the Performing Arts Club to enjoy a number of opportunities to showcase my music skills on stage.I have taken part in ANC annual fashion show, which was so much fun! It was also a great place to make good friends. Yeah, I had accomplished so much within a period of three years before moving to America for professional qualifications at the US Aviation Academy.
Q: What are the opportunities available for international students in the US?
Aaron: The US is still the land of opportunity, and it’s a transformative experience for international students. You gain a quality education, enjoy prestige, and have a unique college experience at beautiful college campuses. Students return to their countries with what it takes to secure a rewarding job. If one wants to work for a multinational, US qualifications are well regarded by many employers across the world. US institutions have invested on student success.Besides learning from world renowned professors, additional funding per student often supports top notch resources, such as first class equipment in laboratories and workshops, impressive libraries, ample study and social spaces and other facilities. There are post-study work opportunitiesand internshipsas well. For local students, they can always start at ANC, earn US qualifications through Northwood and go to the US for Master’s or professional training, or they can transfer to a US university under ANC’s 2+2 program.
For more information, please
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