This Taekwondo Black Belt Doesn’t Shy Away From A Challenge
Prisha, 10-years-old, Math Level I, Reading Level K
When 10-year-old Prisha is competing in a Taekwondo match, she leverages the extreme focus and perseverance she has worked so hard to obtain in order to power through. Achieving the rank of 2nd degree black belt is just one of the many challenges the fifth grader has tackled head-on. Whether it’s winning sport competitions or math awards, Prisha makes sure to give each challenge her all. On a weekly basis, Prisha juggles many commitments and responsibilities beyond Taekwondo, including soccer, piano and violin lessons, and Math Olympiad. Many might wonder how Prisha has the time to be able to dedicate to excel at all of her activities. Prisha attributes much of that to her time spent in the Kumon Math and Reading Program.
Prisha first enrolled in Kumon five years ago. In the beginning, she started out learning simple addition and subtraction in the Kumon Math Program, along with simple sentence structure in the Kumon Reading Program. She quickly advanced to learning years beyond her grade level – learning quadratic equations and the critical analysis of advanced literature.
Prisha has gained such a strong self-learning ability, which has opened the door to many opportunities in an out of the classroom.
“Kumon’s method of self-learning helps students of all levels become independent learners,” said Prisha. “Now, I am more patient in figuring out solutions on my own. This method also allows me the opportunity to learn from my mistakes and move to the next level at my own pace. The process encourages me to keep trying and not give up while giving me the confidence that I can always learn more and do better.”
Prisha’s hard work in Kumon is paying off, as she’s just a few weeks from completing the Kumon Reading Program. She’s also close to achieving the coveted “J by 6” milestone in the Kumon Math Program. This milestone will be met when Prisha reaches Math Level J by or before the end of sixth grade. She is currently one level away and has no doubt she will achieve her goal.
Prisha’s goals help to motivate her to remain disciplined, organized, and dedicated.
“Studying at a level significantly higher than my school grade level requires constant focus and dedication that can be challenging, but being able to balance school and other activities successfully has motivated me to never give up,” said Prisha. “It also requires me to be extremely disciplined and organized. My goal of achieving J by 6 is another great incentive to keep me going, and I’m looking forward to receiving the recognition of reaching that goal.”
Prisha’s consistent commitment and drive were recognized as she was one of 56 Kumon Students from across North America that was selected to attend Kumon’s 3rd Annual Student Conference. She traveled to the city of Chicago to connect with like-minded peers who show the same motivation to unlocking their full potential.
We had a chance to talk with Prisha about what she is most proud of, her experience at the event, along with her plans for the future.
What do you enjoy most about Kumon?
I enjoy the flexibility that it allows for me to learn at my own pace. Standing out as a good student and continuing to be selected in advanced programs like gifted and talented, are added reminders to persist at Kumon because it’s worth it.
How has Kumon helped you outside of the classroom?
Kumon has made me more advanced in school. I regularly use the methods and strategies that I have learned in Kumon at school to help both myself and my peers.
What achievements are you most proud of?
I am most proud of earning my 2nd degree black belt in Taekwondo in less than six years, and am honored that I had the opportunity to attend the Student Conference.
What advice would you give to kids just starting Kumon?
I would tell the kids who have just started Kumon to pay close attention to the directions given by their Instructor, to do Kumon every day, and to never forget to have fun.
What is your favorite book and why?
My favorite book is “Left Out” by Tim Green. This book is about a boy named Landon. He has cochlear implants and is passionate about football. Despite some difficulties, he comes out as a winner. This is because of his focus and dedication – he never lost hope and faced the challenges head on, even though everyone told him that he was not fit to play football. The book is inspiring since it teaches that with hard work and focus, a person can overcome all obstacles to reach the goal.
What was your experience like at the Student Conference, and what was your favorite part?
I found the Student Conference a very good opportunity to learn from former Kumon Students and I got to meet other Kumon Students from all over the world. I really enjoyed the debate sessions which were competitive but also fun at the same time.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration in life is the soccer player Pele. His story is inspiring because he overcame a lot of obstacles in life to become one of the greatest soccer players in the world