By Angelo Laurence, Gleaner WriterMANDEVILLE, Manchester:
FOR MOST children at age two, learning to grasp the wonders of their environment, while clinging to the protective cloak of their parents is a major pre-occupation.
However, for Nicola Marie Chung learning the contents buried within the pages of books and any other reading material or instrument of learning was just as interesting as playing with the latest toy.
At age two-and-a-half she was in kindergarten already showing signs of her exceptional ability to meet the mental challenges that would normally be beyond that of a child her age.
A former student of Belair High School, she gained a scholarship at age 16 to attend Florida International University (FIU). Needless to say she achieved academic excellence and graduated Magna Cum Laude at age 19 when others are just leaving high school or entering a university.
SCHOLARSHIP
With all this education, one would think she would now opt for a year or two of leisure and take in the fun things of a youthful life. She however continued her journey up the education ladder after being awarded a scholarship to study at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA. Here, she again outpaced the imagination of her parents, friends and others, attaining a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in May this year.
Nicola's proud mother Mrs. Elaine Wilson attributes her success to the dedication and focus with which she tackles any task she takes on. Mrs. Wilson also says it is important that parents show interest in whatever their children want to accomplish and support it with all the parental love and guidance possible.
Step-father Quince is also just as proud and lauds Nicola for her focus and maturity in understanding the importance of a good education in a global world at such an early age. Now a Clinical Psychologist, Nicola's friends and the Belair High School family are all rejoicing in her accomplishments which will be an example for others in years to come.
