Another Vincentian is valedictorian at UWI Cave Hill

At the morning graduation ceremony of the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus 2014 class, another Vincentian joined the ranks of Dr Halimah de Shong, Ateisha Bishop and Terral Mapp by delivering the Valedictory Speech to her fellow graduands.

On Saturday, October 18, Jacinth Browne, who attained First Class Honours, implored her peers to “not lose faith” as they embark upon the next stage of their careers, and face the challenges that lay ahead.{{more}}

“It has been a gruelling journey,” she told them. “But I believe that the grace which was sufficient to bring us to such a momentous occasion is more than enough to take us through what lies ahead.”

Quoting the late Professor Rex Nettleford, Browne added: “UWI is arguably our finest gift to ourselves and we must never let it wither on the vine.”

Speaking to SEARCHLIGHT, the 2014 Valedictorian said that she was “ecstatic and incredibly overjoyed” when she was informed that she had been selected for the prestigious role.

“I was in a state of shock,” she admitted. “I had a hunch about the possibility but the reality of it was an entirely different ball game.”

The 22-year-old has a history of high achievement throughout her life. She placed in the top 15 (for girls) at the Common Entrance Examination, remained in the top stream throughout her attendance at the Girls’ High School, gained 11 grade ones at the CSEC examinations, and was one of seven National Scholars in 2010.

Attributing much of her success to the support of her parents Frederick and Hannah Browne, Jacinth, a resident of New Grounds, expressed thanks to everyone who helped her to achieve all she has done this far; including family, teachers and friends.

Having completed a Bachelor’s in Literatures in English with Education, Browne is currently pursuing an MPhil in Literatures in English, and hopes to be promoted to a Doctorate upon its completion.

“My passion is teaching, and I want to do it in literature because it’s the only area of study I can trust myself not to become bored with,” she explained. “It took me a very long time to accept my desire to teach, but it’s the only thing I can see myself doing for the rest of my life.”

With the intention of becoming a university lecturer, Browne said that her passion for teaching was lit in the year that she taught English at North Union Secondary School before attending university.

And, refreshingly, Browne is not just all about the academics. She is an avid reader of sci-fi novels and theology, enjoys playing Gameboy games, and is quite active on Facebook. Additionally, she enjoys spending time with her sisters (Jannah and Janielle) and friends, and engaging in online discussions/debate about world issues.

She also is rekindling her interests in playing the piano, writing poetry and prose, and playing netball.

And her advice for those wishing to attain educational and career excellence?

“Trust in God and work diligently. He has worked amazingly in my life in many ways,” she insisted.

“You have to be able to work independently to make it through rough patches. Make sure you do what you love… do not take the people who support you for granted… be prepared to break boundaries and elude norms… Success is just as defined by your happiness as it is by your accolades.”(JSV)