My first encounter with Dr Navin Valrani was in 2020 in my year 10, when I joined the Junior MBA programme. As a reticent kid, who was afraid of public speaking and with low self-esteem, the Junior MBA programme was daunting. However, the encouragement and motivation I received from Dr Navin helped me overcome my fear and probably the first time I ever spoke in public was when I presented my business proposal at The Arcadia School. That was the turning point! Soon after this, Dr Navin became my career counsellor and mentor. I looked forward to our sessions where we would have discussions on how I could better myself. He always gave me confidence and helped me discover my strengths and values, equipping me to navigate my career path with confidence. At each meeting, we would discuss what I had achieved and what I needed to do further to develop myself. He also guided and helped me find suitable internships that related to my chosen field. The weekly reports of my internship documented my learning journey helping me track my goals, record challenges, and reflect on my own learning process. Writing exams was a big challenge for me as anxiety would kick in and I would lose confidence. Dr Navin provided a sense of reassurance and supported me through in-person meetings, online calls, or simply a WhatsApp voice message even when he was travelling. He understood who I was and adapted how he could mentor me to ensure my success and happiness. At no point was I ever judged and he was always reassuring me of my abilities. He guided and supported me through the entire process of my university applications, listening very carefully to my apprehensions and also my requests.
I am also indebted to Ms. Jaimie Redgwick. She was my go-to person for everything. She was always willing to help with whatever I needed, kept track of my achievements and also gave me the encouragement I needed, for which I am eternally grateful. I’m extremely excited for my future at university and it’s all thanks to Dr. Navin and Ms. Jaimie. Dr Navin Valrani, thank you for being a big part of my story! Like a puzzle, you helped put the pieces together and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without your unconditional support and guidance.
