One Degree Alumni Podcast Ep.13

Ep.13: Ramyar A, an alumnus from 2015 (Newman Catholic College, London)

Welcome to the One Degree Alumni Podcast, where we share inspiring success stories of young people overcoming significant challenges.

Each episode highlights the incredible journeys of youth who, with the support of the One Degree mentoring program, have defied the odds to start to achieve their dreams. From conquering personal struggles to breaking barriers and reaching career heights, these stories will motivate and uplift you. Discover how ‘one degree of change can open a lifetime of possibilities.

Brought to you by the One Degree Youth Mentoring Programme.

Music by One Degree alumnus – CONFLUENCE.

Here’s a summary of One Degree Alumni Stories Ep.13 featuring Ramyar A., a 2015 alumnus from Newman Catholic College in London:

• Introduction: Ramyar recalls initially thinking the One Degree program, which required attending on Saturdays, was a punishment. However, he quickly came to enjoy it, appreciating the mentorship, guest speakers, and the holistic support it offered.
• Key Experiences: Ramyar highlights a challenge set by guest speakers from the charity “MyBnk,” where he and his friends sold garden pods to raise money for charity, learning valuable communication and sales skills in the process.
• Program Impact: The program helped him learn about his personal learning style, particularly how one-on-one mentorship improved his academic confidence. By the time exams approached, he felt more prepared and confident.
• Post-Program: After GCSEs, Ramyar’s family moved to Birmingham, where he completed his A-levels. He later attended the University of Birmingham, studying Political Science and immersing himself in a variety of enriching experiences, including travel to Hong Kong and China.
• Career Aspirations: Ramyar is particularly interested in combining tech consultancy and public sector work, having interned with a local MP and worked on research and policy development for the West Midlands Combined Authority and West Midlands Police.
• AI Expertise: After university, Ramyar completed a master’s in Artificial Intelligence, which he sees as a key tool for the future, especially in the areas of technology and education.
• Final Advice: Ramyar advises GCSE students to learn about themselves and how they handle challenges like stress and pressure, encouraging them to focus on personal growth and self-optimization in addition to academics.