Aleeza is a final year student studying A Levels in Psychology, English Literature and Religious Studies. She has taken advantage of the many opportunities available to students at NewVIc.

Aleeza is actively involved in college life. This academic year (2023-24), Aleeza served as the college’s Student Union President and also got involved in the Student Council and Student Ambassador volunteering scheme. She is an avid musician and singer and has featured singing alongside music producer Frenchy. Prior to joining NewVIc, she was at Scoil Chriost Ri school in Ireland. We caught up with Aleeza to find out about her journey so far.

What made you choose NewVIc?

I chose NewVIc because my brother is an alumni who progressed to Cambridge University. He recommended that I attend NewVIc as it seemed like it would be a good option for me - I wasn't really sure what I wanted to pursue in my life at the time.

NewVIc provided multiple courses and pathways and wellbeing support for students who struggled with poor mental health. The kindness of some staff involved also confirmed my decision to choose NewVIc, as well as the facilities and location of the college. After seeing the Link and hallways, I couldn't believe how massive the college was, it really is deceptive from the outside. I was also impressed that the college provided a free gym for students, fantastic inclusive learning and wellbeing support, multiple sports to take part in and a wide variety of courses to choose from. It seemed like the right choice for me!

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STUDY A LEVELS?

I currently study A Levels in Psychology, English Literature and Religious Studies. I chose these subjects because I have realised as much as I loved and wanted to succeed in STEM subjects - I'm much more skilled in humanities. I used to study psychology on my own as a kid as I was simply interested in the mind and understanding why we, humans are the way we are.

I chose English Literature because it's a mixture of English and History. It's almost like watching a really interesting movie, except you’re doing it through reading and writing.

Finally, I chose Religious studies (RS) mostly because I ADORE philosophy. Unfortunately that wasn't something I could choose hence I stuck with RS. I love asking question about religion and understanding world views when it comes to God.

Overall, all these subjects not only provide me with education but they also satisfy my need to understand more about the world and about my own identity.

Being at NewVIc has definitely been one of the greatest times of my life. I have made friends from all walks of life, had a chance to do fun things, and I have been presented on different stages I never thought I would. I really like the community spirit here. If you drop by one of the NewVIc Knights basketball games, you will definitely feel like you belong to a family. It's amazing, really!

How have you found college so far?

Being at NewVIc without a doubt has been one of the most joyous times of my life. I have been battling with depression for all my life and once I arrived at NewVIc at 16, I experienced things I have never before.

I have had way more opportunities than I could ever imagine. This is where I discovered how to have fun, how to live, how to educate myself. How to be me. Once I thought I was nobody, now I'm sitting in the Union President role - and in a much better state of mind.

One thing I found so interesting was how involved the majority of the staff are with the students! It’s a friendly environment rather than constant, scary authority. NewVIc has taught me that it's okay to seek help and I've met plenty of lovely people.

As a Student Ambassador, I have been involved in running the college Open Days. I have also been involved in Culture Fest, a brilliant event with a lot of dancing and smiley faces throughout the college. I also participated in the Winter Fest where I sang in front of a crowd. Despite crippling anxiety, I did it and got involved.

Aside from that, I've been involved in some very formal governor meetings to sort out issues around NewVIc!

Is there anything you wish you had known that you do now?

"It will work out, you will find peace."

Throughout my life. I've struggled, a lot. I couldn't see a way ahead. It seemed there was no light at the end of the tunnel. I felt stuck and hopeless, I know many people feel this way. I'm here to assure you that it will be okay.

Learn to be grateful. The little steps come together to make a way ahead for your personal journey that you never would have expected, your path will be carved out for you. When things get overwhelming, the best thing to learn is how to breathe. Take a step back. It will be okay, you will figure it out. We as students are young and there's no reason to have such intense expectations for yourself. Take it one step at a time and be kind to yourself.

A person I have a lot to be grateful for is Desmond Channer, the counsellor at NewVIc. He has truly influenced my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined before. I look forward to our weekly sessions so we can chat about anything from the fascination of the mind to talking about culture and space. Des is an inspiration because he's made it this far from a place of difficulty in the past and I really appreciate that. He's had a positive impact on multiple students, luckily I’m one of them. :)

Who is the most inspiring person you have ever met?

My brother, was a former NewVIc student who achieved 3 A*s and A (off by 1 mark!). He graduated from Cambridge University with a Physics degree.

Excuse me WHAT? I am immensely proud of him, he's always been there to help me with basically everything. If I didn't have him alongside me, I would be lost. I appreciate him and his ambitions, skills, goals, consistency everyday. He inspires me a great deal because when he puts his mind to something, he gets it. He's extremely smart and kind and I really wish to be somewhat like him as I grow older. He can also play "Neon" by John Mayer on the guitar now (which is extremely difficult).

Tell us about being the Student Union President and a part of Student Council?

I am extraordinarily delighted to be voted as student president 2023/24 because students CHOSE to vote for ME which I'm so grateful for.

This was a wonderful opportunity to make some changes around the college and help my fellow students. Being in the SU has had a positive impact on me; I found a close-knit group of friends whom I can trust and I can use this power to make the right changes. I want the best for this college and the students in it. Please don't hesitate to find me or a union member in our office in the student hub, always happy to help as your president!

What is your advice for students considering NewVIc?

Try. Don't take your courses lightly and attend every lesson. Put in your best effort, you won't regret putting in the effort now and reaping the rewards.

Life is long and short all at once. Too short to think too deeply and long enough to grow up to be someone you are proud of. Anyone including YOU, can quite literally do anything and be anyone, at all. NewVIc provides countless opportunities and support systems for every student. Do not be afraid to reach out - get help from your teacher, youth safety, tutor or the welfare team. Everyone is here to help, you're not alone.

So what’s next?

As I mentioned earlier I'm someone who isn't exactly sure of what I want from my future. Many people aren't, nothing to panic about - that's also something I've learnt. I'm gradually figuring it out. I'm focusing on short term goals is what's best for me as it will lead me to a higher place in life by adding up. Although one thing I am inspired to do is, aim to attend a Russell Group University preferably Oxford or Cambridge. I want to achieve a musical career as a side hustle because I'm a singer and I play the guitar - I'm interested in multiple instruments and theory etc. I think I'm capable of these goals and that's what matters!