Kumon Student Uses Three A’s to Master Productivity
Mahek, Math Level J, Reading Level HII
At only 11 years old, Mahek has mastered what most adults are still working towards: the art of productivity. Whether she’s playing sports competitively or giving back to her community, her time management skills have allowed her to fit all her favorite activities into her busy schedule.
Mahek is devoted to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon) and is part of The Hare Krishna Community of Dallas-Fort Worth. She participates in weekly volunteer activities which include distributing books, serving food, and assisting with fundraising activities. Additionally, she has taken part in many skits/plays and given speeches in front of up to one thousand people at her temple. When she’s not contributing to her community, she is busy with many sports and hobbies. She enjoys competitive swimming, bike riding, watching movies, reading, and more.
“My hobbies keep me energized and provide a good balance between studies and having fun,” says Mahek.
Academically, Mahek has always been two levels ahead of grade level. Her academic performance has led her to receive many awards and recognitions. She was selected to be part of the Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) due to her 100% score in Math and Reading for both the 4th and 5th grade STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Test. While she has many achievements to be proud of, her proudest is earning the Presidential Gold Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence in 6th grade.
Mahek was one of 56 students selected for Kumon’s 3rd Annual Student Conference in Chicago, Illinois. She thanks Kumon for her boosted confidence to work independently without fearing the unknown.
“Kumon has helped me achieve my 3 A’s- Ascend, Autonomous, and Ameliorate,” says Mahek.
She breaks them down below:
- Ascend: To move forward. “As a competitive swimmer I practice perseverance and diligence which have helped my ascendency.”
- Autonomous: To be independent. “As an 11-year-old, I make several decisions about my academic and social life, especially to find a fair balance.”
- Ameliorate: To make better. “Kumon has made my life better by not only putting me ahead in curriculum but also by opening doors to new friends and challenging my thinking.”
“I am grateful to Toru Kumon, for making me an overall more confident and better individual,” says Mahek.
That’s not the only person Mahek is influenced by. Though Mahek is driven by her diligence, accomplishments, and recognition, she is greatly inspired by the support she receives from her family, friends, and community.
We had a chance to speak with Mahek to learn more about her interests and experiences both in and out of Kumon.
What do you think of Kumon’s method of thinking for oneself?
Kumon helped me gain independence and increase my self-confidence and I love that! The Instructors are there to guide me through the worksheets, but always encourage me to find answers myself! This may sound useless strategy, but I can definitely claim that it’s not. Kumon helps students like me to think outside of the box and it makes easier for me to grasp concepts more effectively. Sometime thinking for yourself without opinions, ideas can help you to succeed beyond what you thought others could do for you!
What do you feel most proud of about yourself?
There are many things that I feel proud about including recognitions, accomplishments, and my diligence. Just the fact I have countless people in my life that believe in me! These are the people who support me, even If I don’t want to do my homework or study. They motivate me and remind me of what I am trying to achieve in long run. I may be in the worst mood that day, but they are always there to offer me a hand. I feel blessed. I can’t say how I push through all the challenges I face, but I overcome them, especially with the help of my parents and Kumon Instructors who are always there to cheer me on!
How has Kumon helped you academically?
Since I joined Kumon, I have always been at least 2 grade levels ahead. School work seems so easy, as I have already mastered the content ahead of time at Kumon. This has helped me to score 95’s or above which in turn has helped me to gain several recognitions at school.
What is your favorite book and why?
I have read the entire series of Harry Potter and yet out of all the 8 books, my favorite one is the last one – Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. That is my favorite book. It is action packed and full of excitement. I love how J.K. Rowling made this one unique by writing in a Play format. I am fond of how Harry has so much audacity to go up against the malicious Lord Voldemort. It’s a very breathtaking book with many cliffhangers!
How has Kumon helped you outside of the classroom?
Being already exposed to the material, I can finish my homework quickly, and that in turn gives me time to concentrate on other activities like swimming, reading novels, and playing with my brother. It has also boosted my confidence to work independently without fearing the unknown. I have learned time management skills too.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I want to explore my career in medical science.
How did you feel when you found out you were selected to attend the Student Conference?
I was amazed and felt so lucky to be accepted! I was jumping up and down for joy! It was one of the most special feelings I had ever experienced, too exciting to even describe.
What advice would you give to kids just starting Kumon?
I would give them the advice to never give up and stick to the program until the end because it is really beneficial!