An Exclusive Interview with
First female LUMS NOP Scholar from GB

|Anila Shafa|

Part Two

In part one, she discussed about her background, reason behind pursuing education at LUMS, and majoring in Economics. Additionally, she explained about her ideal/dream job, and  inspiration in life. Furthermore, she presented her definition of success.

To Read Part One Click Here

Part Two

Educure: The toughest time of your education? And what motivated you while facing a challenging situation?

Whenever I had to compete with a pool of students from various regions inside and outside Northern areas, I have found it hard. Starting from admitting to AKHSS, appearing in board examinations, sitting among thousands of students from all over Pakistan for an entrance exam and until now. All of such times have been passed through with a zeal of hard work which was and is a motivation resulted from the only asset that I provide my parents with; “Happiness”.

Educure: Has money got a role in one’s education?

Quite so. Education is one of the two necessities; the other being health, whose monetary value is increasing every day. Acquiring education is made possible because of money, either be it money paid by the student or one through a scholarship program. One or the other has to pay whatever the source of money is. Therefore, I must say money has a crucial role in one’s education.

Educure: How would you compare Local and foreign universities? Given the choice would you prefer a local or foreign university?

The extent of diversity of students, the faculty and the atmosphere differentiate local and foreign universities. Local universities accommodate lower degree of diversity among students compared to the foreign ones. Local faculty may or may not be as competent as foreign one. While, no such distinctions can be made explicit, until and unless we are not considering the Ivy League institutions or the best of UK which undoubtedly are the world’s best institutions in all aspects.

Personally, I would prefer a foreign university due to the notion that exposure is the key to grooming. And that exposure is surely strength of universities abroad.

Educure: In your opinion what are the challenges currently faced by upcoming students?

In terms of study, I am of the opinion that students do not know how to perform certain tasks in the correct ways. There is no lack of information, knowledge or awareness in them, rather they are utterly confused of what should they pursue and how might that be possible at the required time.

Educure: In your opinion what is education?

It is a blend of knowledge, awareness and personal growth which is capable of solving timely hitches leading to a successful and smooth pathway ready to take more challenges ahead of time.

Educure: How has education changed your life in terms of character and quality of living?

Education has built me and my character particularly. It has broadened my horizons, groomed my personality, awarded and prepared me for all possible challenges that may come my way at any point in time in my life. In terms of quality of life, education has taught me to maximize utility from minimal and scarce resources. Thus, it has improved my character and quality of life.

Educure: What is failure? Have u ever failed in your life? What have you learned from your failures?

Failure is only a demotivating word for me. I would prefer using unsuccessful instead. And I take it as being not successful ‘yet’. I have been unsuccessful in my life many a times. Being unsuccessful has given me motivation and more optimism towards being successful in future. Also, it has compelled me to put in greater effort and made me dream higher and has enlightened me with more hopes.

Educure: Are you planning on coming back to GB to serve your people? If yes How?

I am hoping to serve my people back in GB. I am a believer in community service and voluntary work. It gives me satisfaction of heart. I would like to spend my semester breaks in teaching and counseling my juniors as much as I can.

After my graduation, I would like to work in AKDN along with continuing my voluntary work which I consider my duty besides a hobby.

Educure: What volunteer or social activities have helped you develop professional skills?

I taught the students of my village basic grammar and spoken English for a month during my higher secondary school years. Later, I have been teaching students at home during my semester breaks. Moreover, I am a part of LCSS and LUMS arts society in which I assist arranging various events held during the semester. Also, I visit SOS children’s village weekly to spend some time with the kids who need moral support. I have also been a part of the project of ‘MY WORLD, MY CHOICE’. This project aims at creating awareness among young generation throughout the developing countries. Furthermore, I was a counselor of the TCF (The Citizens Foundation) students during the LUMS open day. Currently, I am volunteering in CSO (Career Services Office) at LUMS to assist get done the career events held in the university. Apart from that I have also volunteered for many social events here at LUMS such as the MBA marketing colloquium.

Educure: Favorite time pass/hobby?

Voluntary work and community service.

Educure: Your vision for your life and your community?

My society has been a victim of crippling poverty, exponential inflation, high levels of political corruption and a crumbling economic system. I have an optimistic outlook for this society and its women in light of an economic revolution which I would someday like to be capable of bringing about myself.

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