Reading Program Completer Dreams of Becoming A Neurosurgeon to Help his Younger Sister
Joseph, 13-years-old, Math Level L & Reading Program Completer
Joseph’s competitive edge and sharp math skills have taken him to the next level, both in and out of the classroom. As an avid competitor for his middle school, Joseph has consistently been leading his team in math competitions such as the Mathematical Association of America’s AMC 8, Noetic Learning Math Contest, and Math Counts.
From an early age, he has learned that success doesn’t come without hard work. While Joseph is an active member on his school’s swim team and is an accomplished pianist, he remains focused on his schoolwork first. Ever since Joseph’s parents enrolled him in Kumon at the early age of three years old, he quickly saw the benefits in his increased focus and determination.
“In Kumon, I’ve learned that good work habits are key to becoming successful in life. In my case, there’s no playing until I finish my work, and I remind myself to remain focused on whatever I am working on,” said Joseph.
Since Joseph is able to complete his homework with ease, he carves out time to do other activities that improve and develop him in all aspects of life. This extra time lets him focus on learning new music and playing the piano, which are two activities he enjoys.
It’s no surprise that with Joseph’s focus and always having his “eye on the prize” mentality, that he successfully completed the Kumon Reading Program in eight years. Now, he’s inspired and close to completing the Kumon Math Program as well.
When we asked Joseph about what he wishes to become when he’s older, he shared with us the true reason on why he sees a future as a neurosurgeon – to help his younger sister.
“I would like to be a successful neurosurgeon one day,” said Joseph. “One of the reasons why I want to become a neurosurgeon is because my younger sister was born with Tetrasomy 18P, a genetic condition related to low muscle tone which causes her to have developmental delays. I want to help her and many others who suffer from these types of conditions when I grow up.”
Among his impressive accomplishments, Joseph was one of 56 students selected for Kumon’s 3rd Annual Student Conference in Chicago, Illinois.
“I was happy, excited, and thankful to be one of the students selected to attend the Student Conference,” said Joseph. “I understand that there were so many bright and talented student who had also submitted their application, so to be selected among all of these kids is a big achievement.”
Joseph and the rest of the attendees had the opportunity to learn from each other through educational activities designed to foster team building, group discussion, critical thinking, and creativity.
Joseph shares with us who his inspiration is and what he enjoys most about Kumon.
Who’s your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration is Elon Musk, because he had a lot of great ideas and turned them all into reality. I admire that he has big dreams and ambitions. They are what drive him to continue to work harder even though he is already successful.
How has Kumon helped you academically?
Kumon has helped me get excellent grades in school and gain the good work habits that help me excel in all of my subjects outside of math and reading.
What achievements are you most proud of?
When I completed the Kumon Reading Program two years ago, I felt that I received that honor not just for myself, but for my family, Instructors, and my Kumon Center.
What do you enjoy most about Kumon?
Becoming an independent learner at a very young age is what I enjoy most about Kumon. I’ve also became responsible and developed good work habits through Kumon.
What advice would you give to kids just starting Kumon?
I would encourage kids to stick with Kumon and give it their full effort, just as I did. If students give it their all, they will reap the benefits in no time, and it will help them school. I have nothing but gratitude for my parents for enrolling me in Kumon. I now have a strong foundation in both math and reading, and learning habits that help me outside of school as well.
What was your experience like at the Student Conference, and what was your favorite part?
I felt so inspired listening to the speakers at the Student Conference. They were all Kumon Program completers themselves and are now very successful in their careers.
If you could sum up your Kumon experience in one word, what would it be?
Beneficial.