Every journey has its highlights. While the final peak of academic studies is graduation day, there are palpable moments of victory along the way to graduation. At KDI School, one such moment is making it to the Dean’s List. This coveted accomplishment is an impressive achievement and a testament to academic excellence. I sat down with 3 students who attained this scholarly award for their stellar performance in the Fall 2024 semester to hear their stories and gather some tips to share with readers.  

What do you believe was the most significant factor that contributed to your inclusion on the Dean's List?

Sofía Narváez (MDP 2024): The most significant factor that contributed to my inclusion on the Dean’s List was my strong dedication to academic excellence and continuous learning. I have always approached my studies with curiosity and discipline, ensuring that I fully engage with the material and seek deeper understanding beyond what is required. Additionally, maintaining a proactive attitude, seeking support from professors and peers, and staying committed to my long-term goals have been essential in achieving this recognition.

Elena Elizabeth Dimas Jimenez (MDP 2024): I’m lucky to have amazing people in my life who believe in me and always remind me of my potential when things get tough. The support from my family, my boyfriend, and my friends has been the most significant factor for me, as it has motivated me to give my best in my studies and strive to be the best version of myself.

Richmond Kwadwo Fosu (MPP 2024): I think the most important factor was having an interest in each course that I picked. Most of the classes I took were very interesting and it made studying very fun even though it was hard. I sincerely believe that having a genuine interest in each of the courses contributed to my inclusion on the Dean’s List. 

Who has been your most influential mentor or source of inspiration during your academic journey, and how have they shaped your approach to learning and personal growth?

Sofía: During my academic journey, my greatest mentors have been my classmates and the incredible support I received from the Latin American and Caribbean community. Their encouragement, shared experiences, and collaborative spirit played a crucial role in my adaptation process and academic performance. Learning from their resilience, diverse perspectives, and unwavering support have shaped my approach to education, reinforcing the importance of community, perseverance, and mutual growth. Their influence has taught me that success is not just an individual achievement but a collective effort built on shared knowledge and support.

Elena: Honestly, I don’t have a specific mentor or source of inspiration. I simply try to become a better version of myself every day, both professionally and personally. When it comes to my studies, I give my best effort so that the knowledge I’m gaining helps me become a positive agent of change in my country.

Richmond: Not just one person but, during my first semester, the group members I had for most of my classes were exceptional people. The way they studied, how they conducted themselves, and how open-minded they were, influenced me very much and it still does. Another person is Nana Yaa Osaa Agyenim Boateng who encouraged me a lot and mostly stayed up late with me at the library just so that I could finish my work. 

Achieving academic excellence often requires effective time management. What strategies have you found effective for balancing academic commitments with personal life and extracurricular activities?

Elena: I use a planner where I write down every task and exam I have. This helps me manage my time effectively and give each responsibility the attention it deserves. I am also available for extracurricular activities that allow me to relax and create a balance between my university workload and daily life. Additionally, I try to work on challenging tasks in inspiring places to change my environment and avoid feeling stuck in a routine of just being at the university.

Richmond: So, I use a technique called BiB, which stands for Business is Business. I mostly schedule 2 hours a day for studies and the rest for other stuff. And in days where I don’t stick to 2 hours, I make sure to compensate for the hours in my next studies. Once I lock into BiB mode, I don’t pay attention to the world until it is over. When I am studying, no games. And when I decide to play games, there is no studying. That is how I do it to maintain the balance. 

Sofía: Balancing academic commitments with personal life and extracurricular activities requires a structured approach to time management. I have found that setting clear priorities, planning, and maintaining a detailed schedule helps me stay on track. I allocate specific time blocks for studying, attending extracurricular events, and self-care, ensuring that I do not compromise my well-being. Additionally, I practice efficiency by breaking down tasks into manageable steps and staying disciplined with deadlines, which allows me to remain productive without feeling overwhelmed.

What word of advice would you give to the students reading this that aspire to make the Dean’s List?

Sofía: To students aspiring to achieve this milestone, my advice is to stay committed, be consistent, and embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Academic excellence is not just about intelligence but about perseverance, discipline, and a proactive approach to learning. Seek guidance when needed, build a strong support system, and remember that progress comes with effort and dedication. Most importantly, stay passionate about what you are learning, as genuine interest will always drive success. 

Richmond: Please section your academic and social time very well, make use of your friends who are good in subjects you find difficult, and please pick courses you have a genuine interest in and easy-to-understand courses.

Elena: Your grades don’t define you, but the effort and dedication you put into achieving them do. We all have the potential to earn outstanding grades, it’s just a matter of staying organized. Don’t leave tasks for later; try to complete assignments and projects as soon as possible instead of waiting until the last minute. If a subject is particularly difficult for you, the best solution is to dedicate more study time to it. And if you’re struggling to understand something, ask for help, there will always be someone willing to support you. Also, take breaks to manage stress. If making the Dean’s List is your goal this semester, you still have time. Stay motivated! You can do it!