From 'shy girl' to confident leader: Student shares how she 'grew up' at ITE

This article was contributed by the Institute of Technical Education (ITE).

Nicole Baruela Ayathuray 
Nitec in Space Design (Architecture) @ ITE College Central 
Recipient of Lee Kuan Yew Model Student Award 2020

"Growing Up" at ITE 
 
Listening to Nicole speak, most would think that she is a naturally outspoken person. Few could have imagined that she used to be a "shy girl". Nicole credits her transformation to ITE, where she was given opportunities to achieve personal growth and breakthroughs.
 
Stepping out of her comfort zone to participate in various school activities, Nicole built her confidence and established her leadership qualities. She became recognised for her strong communication skills, which she used to positively influence others.  
 
Conscious of her social responsibility, Nicole also volunteered in various community service programmes. These included facilitating an educational camp for underprivileged children.  
 
From the Heart 
 
Nicole shared: "I have grown more as a person since I entered ITE.

"During the first three months, I struggled a lot because I was really shy.

"With time, I realised that it was important to get involved in co-curricular activities (CCAs), as they enable us to pick up important life skills and values.  
 
"I learnt that going to school is not just about studying, but also about becoming a better person.

"Therefore, I took the two years in ITE to grow myself.

"I am glad to have become more confident in expressing my opinions and being a leader."
 
Life after ITE 
 
Nicole is pursuing a Diploma in Landscape Architecture at Singapore Polytechnic and aspires to be an architect. 
 
Top Achievements

• Nicole was one of three ITE students selected to participate in the Futures Thinking and Scenario Planning Workshop for Youths by the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, where she exchanged ideas with youths on public policy issues.

• Through her strong leadership qualities, she was appointed as Chairman of the CCA and Enrichment Committee of ITE College Central’s Student Council.

• Diligent and self-motivated, Nicole achieved a GPA score of 3.966.

• She was in the Director’s List for all terms from 2018 to 2019.