Paula-Kay's 11 distinctions bring tears of joy

Nadisha Hunter, Staff Reporter

Generating results among the best in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations is not an easy task for students and, indeed, it wasn't for Paula-Kay Cousins of Glenmuir High School, who got distinctions in 11 subjects.

The 17-year-old got distinctions in English language, English literature, mathematics, Caribbean history, economics, chemistry, Spanish, principles of business, religious education, principles of accounts, and information technology.

Paula-Kay said she had worked hard over the years and so she had mixed reactions when she found out about her achievements.

"I am very elated, I was so happy the night I found out about the result that I cried," she disclosed.

The confident Paula-Kay said she knew she would have done well, as she had been dedicated to her studies from an early stage.

"I was excited from about two days before the results. I expected it because I worked hard for it. I have always been a hard worker, and so my hard work has paid off," she said.

Difficult study period

Paula Kay added that her study period was extremely difficult, especially because she had done two of the subjects on her own.

"I had to go to extra classes basically every day until late in the evening, so it was very difficult. But I had a timetable outlining everything I had to do from Monday to Sunday and my days started very early and ended late, so it was a lot of work," Cousins said. Despite her achievements, she never gave up on recreational activities, which she said helped her to be relaxed.

"I had time to go on Facebook and I watched television, but I managed my time well so that it didn't affect my studies," she added.

Not only that, but the scholar was also involved in the quiz club and debating society at her school.

The honour graduate from Glenmuir High is aiming to either be a lawyer or an economist.

She will be moving on to the United World College in Holland, where she pledges to continue doing well.

She gave credit to her family, friends and teachers for helping her to be successful.

nadisha.hunter@gleanerjm.com