VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 14 I am not a quitter. Therefore, not finishing my degree was not an option. Secondly, I am a firm believer in doing all things well. Doing things to the best of my ability motivated me to succeed despite the challenges. Last but not least, I am a believer in the God of the Bible, and I take His word seriously. He promised that He would be with me wherever I go. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 ESV. So, I really had no doubt that regardless of the challenges I was going to finish and finish well. Not because of any special abilities on my part, but because of the Lord to whom I submit. We asked First Class Honours graduates of the Graduating Class of 2021 about their experiences and journey to academic excellence at UTech, Jamaica. Read on for their responses. One of the greatest blessings I got during my time at UTech, Jamaica was becoming a Student Ambassador. I got thrusted into public speaking, I was able to go on student recruitment and I was able to represent the university that I love so much. I really evolved a lot after being appointed this role and I’m forever grateful to the University for giving me that opportunity. Another great experience was tutoring. There were many students in my classes that were struggling to understand the material that I was an expert in. I took it upon myself to meet up with them for maybe an hour or two a week basically tutoring them and practicing questions with them. I just tried to help anywhere possible. This was my form of community service. By the end of the semester, most of us would get A’s for those courses and for sure I was way happier about their grades than mine. I don’t think succeeding by myself is all that great. What’s the point of reaching the top of a mountain if you have no one to share that moment with? The idea of succeeding together is so wholesome for me. I also always encourage others to do the same. So that experience was also something I’m very proud of. STUDENT VOICES Dr. Julian Walters Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law (First Class Honours) What motivated you to succeed, despite challenges? What was your best experience at UTech, Jamaica? Neethu Manianghattu Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (First Class Honours)
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