Ahana Kumar
Where do you attend school, and what what are you studying?
I am a rising junior at Langley High School in McLean, Virginia, where I am enrolled in Honors and AP courses. Outside of the classroom, I am actively involved in Model Judiciary, where I serve as a Team Captain and previously competed as an attorney on a team that advanced to the state competition. I also hold several student leadership positions, including serving as President of Student Council and as a Logistics Coordinator for youth programs and a large-scale event, where I help plan activities, manage operations, and coordinate participants. Additionally, I serve as a Logistics Coordinator for a weeklong regional sports competition. I participate in Model United Nations and serve as an Advisory Board Officer for Langley's Young Democrats club. I am also a member of the Spanish Honor Society and a recipient of the Presidential Excellence Award. Through these experiences, I have developed strong leadership, communication, critical thinking, organization, and public speaking skills.
What have your teaching opportunities been outside of Fairfax Collegiate?
I have experience working with students of a variety of ages through tutoring, coaching, and volunteer service. I currently work as a tutor at Kumon, where I assist students with math and reading and help them build confidence in their academic abilities. I also volunteer as a Teacher's Assistant at an Early Child Development Center, where I work with young children through activities such as reading, puzzles, and structured play. In addition, I serve as an assistant basketball coach for a youth team, where I help teach skills, encourage teamwork, and mentor young athletes. Through these experiences, I have learned how to adapt my communication style to different age groups and learning needs while creating a positive and supportive environment for students.
What excites you about teaching and working with students?
What excites me most about working with students is the opportunity to make a positive impact, whether that means helping someone understand a challenging concept, develop a new skill, or simply feel more confident in their academic abilities. I enjoy getting to know students as individuals and finding ways to support them based on their unique strengths and needs. Through tutoring, coaching, and volunteering with younger children, I have seen that learning is about much more than academics. A little encouragement or patience can make a big difference in a student's confidence and willingness to participate. I find it incredibly rewarding to be part of that process and to help create an environment where students feel supported, included, and excited to learn.
Outside of work, what are some hobbies you enjoy?
Outside of work and school, I enjoy participating in Model Judiciary and Model United Nations, where I develop public speaking, debate, and critical thinking skills. I also enjoy staying active through sports, such as basketball and volleyball. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering through community service and youth leadership programs by organizing events and activities for younger students. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, painting, and baking.