“Yes! Yes! Yes, yes, yes!” was Nile Anderson’s words upon discovering that he was not only successful in the 16 subjects he sat in the recent exams, but received 13 ones and three twos.

His journey, however, started before that.

“In second form, I attained a grade one and grade two in human and social biology and social studies, respectively. I once more attained a grade one and two in third form in principles of business and principles of accounts, which I sat once more in the past examinations,” the 17-year-old Manning’s School student stated.

“Finally, at the end of fifth form, I sat 16 subjects,” he continued.

“I received grade ones in English language, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, additional mathematics, Spanish, information technology, integrated science, agricultural science, office administration, principles of accounts, and electrical and electronic technology and then twos in geography, English literature and economics.”

Anderson shared that apart from being self-motivated, he was inspired by greats before him who scored no less than 10 ones. He confessed that he had wanted to make a name for himself. He was able to do just that and at the same time, drown “unintelligent and uninspired” names that taunted him throughout his high school journey.

“I have a condition that causes one of my shoulders to be higher than the other and throughout my entire school life, I was mocked about it, but I have tried not to let it get to me, especially since some of the names they came up with were very unintelligent and uninspired,” Anderson disclosed with a smile.

“At times, there were also financial challenges, as my mother is a single parent with two biological children. I say that because as a teacher, she would try her best to help students [who] had any challenges, which is something that deserves great merit.”

Anderson ended by imploring all students to remain positive.

“Never give up. No matter how dark the tunnel seems, keep walking because as sure as there is a sun in the sky, there is definitely a light at the end of that tunnel,” the future paediatrician/engineer encouraged.

“Whatever pain or problems you may be going through, think of it as a rung on your ladder to success. It is your life, your story. You are the hero and the hero never gives up.”