St Ann teen earns brilliant CSEC passes despite heart condition
CHANOYE Lee always knew he would do well in his Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams. But when his father died in March, it became increasingly difficult for the 17-year-old York Castle High School student to focus.
“I lost my father just this year, so finances were lacking,” Lee said.
Despite this obvious setback, the young man earned nine distinctions and one pass at the CSEC level, and a pass at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) level.
He earned distinctions in mathematics, English language, principles of business, principles of accounts, chemistry, biology, physics, human and social biology, and social studies. He earned passes in additional mathematics and Communication Studies.
“I expected to do well except for additional math,” Lee said.
He explained that following the death of his father, he was unable to attend most of the Saturday classes he had registered for to sit additional math.
He said he was only able to go through the period after his father died with support from relatives and friends.
“My mother was there to support me; my friends and my teachers were there for me,” he added.
The teen said being able accomplish so much at this level makes him extremely happy.
“I feel great knowing that I worked hard over the years,” Lee said.
He now intends to continue at the school’s sixth form and while he is excelling academically, Lee has not yet decided what career path he will choose.
“I would like to pursue a career in medicine, but I haven’t decided yet because I also like business,” he said.
The youngster, who many see as quiet, has also had to battle a heart condition during his academic pursuits over the years. However, he has always remained committed to doing his best despite his financial and health setbacks.
Lee explained that he was not able to be involved in extra-curricular at school as a result of his illness.
“I was not involved in sports,” he shared.
However, his illness never affected his studies as the teen always remained dedicated in spite of his circumstances.
