Student Spotlight - Lizna Lakhani

If you could be magically transported to one specific location right now, where would it be?

I would definitely want to be at the Academy. As I am now a part of the AKA Hyderabad family, I am eagerly waiting to meet my teachers and my fellow classmates. Being a new student to the Academy, I am looking forward to making new friends, learning in an actual classroom instead of a virtual one, participating in all the activities the Academy offers and finally experiencing residential life on campus! 

As a new student, what are the top three things you liked about the academy?

As a new student at the Academy this year I think the best part about the Academy is the support that it provides to the students. As a part of Distance Learning Programme, I thought it would be difficult for me to communicate with teachers and students here. Having attended three weeks of classes, I can say that it wasn’t challenging at all,  the Academy feels like family to me now. The second thing I would say is students, everyone is so supportive and ready to help anytime. The third thing on my list would be the Distance Learning Programme, the way the Academy has planned the Programme is so incredible, there is a proper schedule for students, keeping in mind their screen time and health.

What is keeping you focused and positive?

I am one of the students who got a full scholarship to study at the Academy this year. I feel like it is my responsibility to work hard and release my highest potential. Moreover, I feel like my parents are also my source of motivation. Whenever I need help, they are right there to help me. This keeps me inspired and focused to study hard and prove myself.

Biggest cause of frustration/ challenge during lockdown.

As students we have never had online classes. We are used to physical classes, meeting our teachers, learning and having fun with our friends. The lack of a physical campus is what has been the biggest source of frustration for me.

Any things you are finding really beneficial about the lockdown?

My family had decided to get me admissions in a school in my city but things fell into place and I got admitted into the Academy, which was such a dream! I think because things happened so fast, if the physical campus would have been open, it might have been difficult for me to leave my parents.  It is an advantage that I am getting to spend quality time with my family while also preparing myself for the future.

If you had a chance to pass on one piece of advice to your fellow students right now, what would it be?

One piece of advice that I would like to give to my fellow students is to reduce their screen time. Apart from school teaching hours, most of the students tend to spend a lot of time on their smartphones and laptops. I think one must use them only when required. I would also say everyone needs to be patient. The time will come when we will all be together.