Nine ones no surprise for Kayann

Shanique Samuels, Gleaner Writer

Kayann Boucher found herself among the island's top achievers when she was awarded nine distinctions in the 2013 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC).

Boucher, who has since matriculated to sixth form at Clarendon College, said she was delighted to be the top student this year.

"I knew I had the potential. I had put out every effort, so I wasn't really surprised when the results came out because I had expected it, but I'm happy nonetheless."

But all this overwhelming success didn't come easy. She said the preparation process was hectic, but she remained focused. "I spent lots of late nights crying and praying when I was studying. I talked to God about it every single night." She recounted being motivated by another female student at the school who had got nine grade ones at CSEC the previous year.

Kayann said she was highly self-motivated, but additionally, she had strong support from family and friends. "My family, friends, and classmates were my main driving force," she said, smiling. "They contributed greatly to me excelling so far above and beyond my perceived potential.

"There was always friendly rivalry between me and my classmates, but I was determined to come out on top, so I spent the time and put in the extra work, but we always had good camaraderie," she said with a chuckle.

She said she always loved the science subjects, but it was one of Ben Carson's books - coupled with the burning passion for the sciences - that provided inspiration for wanting to become a neurosurgeon.

Challenges

Behind every success story there are always challenges, and Kayann's was no exception.

She recalled having numerous financial constraints leading up to the external examinations. These ranged from very little lunch money to many other school-related expenses. Yet through it all, she stayed focused, maintained her goal, and prayed a little harder.

Kayann said having lost her father when she was only 10 years old affected her as her financial situation grew dim over time, but she was determined to make her dream a reality.

Peer pressure also crept in. Kayann recalled declining and passing up many an invitation. "My friends were always going out, but I opted to stay home and study. It's as if my social life was literally on pause," she said.

She said she would be pulling out all the stops this year for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations. "I feel a bit pressured because I was the top student this year, so everybody is expecting me to come out on top again next year. But this is nothing I can't handle because I have every confidence in myself and my abilities."

She said her peers looked up to her and the teachers are depending on her to maintain her standards and make them proud once more. "In spite of the mounting pressure, I will remain focused because I know I can do this again."

Boucher said the search is now on for scholarships to pursue medicine full time at a local university or overseas if the opportunity presents itself. She is also encouraging students who are about to sit the CSEC examinations next year to stay focused, be steadfast, and pray because prayer is a major part of any preparation process.