THE SECRET TO Academic Success

Meet Alumnus Josh Mammen, class of 2020, who now calls Columbus, Ohio, USA his home. Josh is a young and energetic individual who has lived a diverse life so far. Originally from India, he migrated to Australia at the tender age of five and has since been exposed to different cultures and lifestyles.

Education has always been an essential aspect of his life, and he has studied in many schools. He graduated from Lindisfarne in the year 2020. “Lindisfarne’s staff was very dedicated to ensuring students had the best opportunity to learn, and the teachers were hardworking and always willing to help students. I am grateful for my year 12 teachers, especially Mrs Noelene Wright, Mr Richard Gazal, Mrs Allison Sands and Mrs Kylie Rossington, who were relentless in their efforts to help me achieve academic success”. he says.

Josh achieved the remarkable feat of earning the highest ATAR score in the entire Lindisfarne cohort of 2020 with an impressive score of 96.25. His educational background is in actuarial science, mathematics and economics, reflecting his passion for problem-solving and analytical thinking.

When explaining what it takes to focus and be at the top of your game he says, “I studied with a strong focus on study techniques, such as working hard, keeping up to date with all subjects on a weekly basis, using resources like Atomi and Edrolo for notes, doing lots of past exams timed and studying during semester/term breaks. These techniques have helped me strive for academic success while at Lindisfarne and Bond”.

Currently, Josh is in Columbus, Ohio, representing Otterbein University on the tennis team while completing his MBA. He is a determined athlete and a hard-working student who values academic and athletic excellence equally. Despite being away from home, he has adapted to his new surroundings and has made Columbus his home away from home.

In addition to his academic pursuits, tennis has been a significant part of his life. He began learning to play tennis at the age of 10 and started playing competitively at the age of 12. Some of his biggest achievements in tennis include making the NSW State Finals four times, representing North East NSW at QLD State Teams and winning several local tournaments. He was also named Player of the Week in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) twice, helping Otterbein University register win against rivals such as the College of Wooster and Ohio Northern University.

“Despite my love for tennis, my academic priorities have taken precedence in the past three years. However, my experience of playing tennis for Otterbein has been the most enjoyable one yet. I have made great friends with my team mates and the support we get from one another is incredible. Living in the US has also been a great experience that has taught me independence and other life skills”.

His current career aspirations involve pursuing an Actuarial Science Honours degree back in Australia at Bond University, becoming a certified actuary and ultimately, a fellow of the Actuaries Institute of Australia.

When asked what motivates him to achieve success he states, “My motivation to achieve success comes from enjoying what I do, both academically and with tennis. I am no longer focused on quantitative measures like tennis rating/ranking or exam marks, but rather, I measure success by enjoying what I do and working hard towards my goals. Since I am doing things which I enjoy, it motivates me to work hard which is the pillar of my success”.

Josh’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. By setting goals and pursuing them with passion and perseverance, Josh has achieved success both academically and on the tennis court. His achievements demonstrate that with the right mindset, it is possible to balance one’s passions and academic pursuits and achieve success in both. His story reminds us that it is important to work hard and strive for excellence in whatever we do, while also enjoying the journey and doing what we love.