Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad - Student Voices

Heaven is a lifetime away…The Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad is just an hour away. A picture-perfect piece of heaven, a cradle of green and blue emeralds!

A world of its own- The Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad.

I was introduced to the Academy by my cousin who studied here. Over a conversation, one fine day, my cousin spoke of the incredible opportunities that awaited us at the Academy. I was made to picture the campus and told of the gigantic swimming pool and the diving pool that allowed for enthusiasts to practice their diving skills. I was excited to learn that each sport had its own field – cricket, football, hockey…then there was the athletic tracks and running spaces. All of this amazed me as I always wanted to balance mental and physical health. When I saw photographs, would stood out was the architecture – well planned and executed. And finally, I asked “How is the food?” well, now I am a student here, I can assure you that it is outstanding!

Any student hearing these descriptions would immediately stand on their toes to do anything it required to get in! I did the same without thinking whether I’d adjust well to change? Whether I’d get used to IB curriculum? If I would be able to make friends?

I once was a little girl who really couldn’t walk on the side of the road without assistance, I couldn’t handle spice in my food, I avoided being integral to any event or speak of current affairs. I just stuck to what the teacher told me, did my homework on time, I was a good student overall. My life was nothing better than a porridge without salt. It was continuous, repetitive and although I had what a good student needed, I wasn’t growing as a global citizen. And that’s when I decided to walk on the outer side of the road on my own. 

I joined the Academy 2 months late due to issues with traveling and settling down. Other than the fact that I was shaking with excitement on entering the Academy, my heart accelerated with nervousness, fear, the anxiety of whether or not I would have friends to sit with during lunch or if someone would help me borrow an eraser if I were to lose mine? To my surprise, despite being the odd one out I wasn’t left out. Those around me catered to my needs. It went beyond the eraser.

What I am trying to share with the new members joining our family, it’s not going to be a roller coaster ride as long as you are open-minded. Those who are here are not here to criticize but to help you grow as a person. To grow with the skills that will help you develop. 

You’re going to be a leader that people look up to, you’re going to be a person that is going to voice your concerns, you’re going to be a family member that helps this family grow and one thing I can assure you of is we’re always here for you!

Heaven might seem a lifetime away but this home, the academy would be just an hour away, if you’re a day student!

I am proud to be at AKA Hyderabad.

Kainaz Pattani

DP2