I know my stuff, says Shaniel
Published:Tuesday | August 16, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Nadisha Hunter, Staff Reporter
Gaining nine distinctions in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations was no surprise for 16-year-old Shaniel May of Campion College as, she said, being a top achiever over the years has paved the way for her success.
The scholar is among the top students at the school after scoring high grades in biology, chemistry, Caribbean history, principles of accounts, English A, English B, information technology, mathematics and economics.
Shaniel told The Gleaner yesterday that she was delighted that her hard work has paid off.
"I am very elated. I was so happy. I am very proud of myself," she said at her home in Patrick City, St Andrew.
"It wasn't as hard as people make it seem because two years ago, I would say CSEC is just around the corner, but then I reach and it was just like another internal exam to me," she said.
Shaniel said she had expected to be on top as she had been doing well from an early age.
Most of her preparation took place during class time as she paid close attention to the lessons while they were being taught.
"I don't believe in studying for long hours. The longest I studied was two hours because I know my stuff from what I learn in class," she argued.
She said managing her schoolwork and extra activities were the only challenge she had, but, as a result of her dedication, it wasn't hard for her to pull through.
She played football, netball and held leadership positions in a number of clubs at school.
The future corporate lawyer said the sky is the limit for her as she continues to strive for excellence.
Shaniel said she was working hard as she wanted to make a difference in the justice system and focus on helping the less fortunate get the representation they deserve.
"The big companies are able to get good representation, but the smaller persons are not able to keep up with that and so I am planning to help the smaller people out there so that they can be successful as well," she explained.
Shaniel credits her mother and school community for her achievements in the examination and for maintaining an A average throughout her school life, so far.