“It was at ANC I found an avenue for my aspirations”
Amaani graduat e d magna cum laude with a B.S. in Psychology from the State University of New York, completing her full degree at ANC. A perfectly balanced student between academics and extra- curricular activities, she strived for excellence and took the full advantage of all the opportunities ANC offered her. She is grateful to ANC for the holistic learning experience of international standards that inspired and equipped her with what it takes to launch a rewarding career as a primary teacher; an allrounder herself, Amaani is undoubtedly “teacher material” and well- poised to guide and support young children on their long journey.
It is also an opportunity for her to return to where it all started: Gateway College. Besides near perfect grades at Edexcel A- Levels, her notable achievements at Gateway College include several positions as a senior prefect, member of the senior choir, the editor of the school newspaper, secretary of the broadcasting unit, and a member of the MUN. Amaani was also the co- founder of “Education for All” project ( 2012) and in charge of “Stroke project” ( 2013), two community service projects completed successfully. While Gateway College had provided her with abundant opportunities to develop her engaging and positive attitude as well as leadership skills, ANC offered her a well- designed pathway to career success.
Given below are a few excerpts from the interview with Amaani:
Q: Why did you choose ANC for your higher studies?
A: After ALs when I felt ready to take the next step, I researched my options. Although many people suggested that I go abroad, I found that ANC provided the same qualification here at home. ANC collaborates with SUNY to offer a B. S. in Psychology. With a qualification from one of the most prestigious university systems in the world, I was convinced, I will have abundant opportunities in today’s globally competi- Amaani Shifka Amith Past Student – Gateway College tive market.
Once I started classes, I discovered that the psychology program gave us the same ‘foreign exposure’ many people go abroad for, as we were able to communicate with students around the world following the same program and discuss various topics and also work together through the blended learning platform. Also, Psychology students are given supervised internship opportunities in the senior year.
Q: How could you maintain a GPA of 3.8 throughout?
A: It was a team effort of the lecturers, especially the head of psychology, and myself. The lecturers at ANC had flexible schedules and were always ready to support us with advice, explanations, examples, etc. They also went the extra mile guiding us on projecting a career path that fits with our aspirations. The closeness with the faculty allowed for an easier and more in- depth communication.
Q: What are the special features of the SUNY education at ANC?
A: The continuous assessment system allowed me to understand each component of my subjects well, thereby giving me a thorough understanding of the subject within the 3 months of studying it. The online education at SUNY was challenging, but I was able to adapt to it with the help of the lecturers at ANC. The online environment provided us with a platform to display our work, and also for other students from different parts of the world to comment on our work, which in turn helped us broaden
our perspective of the subject and lesson. The online learning environment also helped me be a more independent learner, and ANC provided me with many resources such as extra reading material in the library, which made selflearning easier.
Q: In addition to academics, what were the other opportunities for growth and advancement?
A: The experiences ANC students have outside of the classroom are also wonderful: we had many opportunities to extend our learning beyond the classroom. Opportunities for involvement include several student clubs and societies. I was initially a member of the Performing Arts Club at ANC and was also its vice president later. The extra- curricular involvement helped me explore and enhance a number of transferrable skills, organizing events, for example, which are valuable for me at work and in life.
Q: What is your message for prospective students?
A: ANC provides abundant opportunities for all students to reach their maximum potential. However, it is in our hands to make use of what is provided. As success is never an accident, you need to strive for it.
ANC’s good wishes are with Amaani for her to accomplish greater feats and excel in all areas of her life!
Be the Next!
Students finishing ALs are welcome to be enrolled on any of our undergraduate degree programs. Those who have gained satisfactory A/ L grades will be eligible to claim exemptions & scholarships; nevertheless, not getting the grades you were expecting doesn’t have to be demotivating, for U.S. universities accept GCSEs and O levels for admission.
For more information, please contact 0773 957070, visit ANC at www. ancedu. com| No.308 – 310, R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 03, or follow us on Facebook: https:// www. facebook. com/ancedu/