Reflections from My First Two Weeks at Amal Academy

Warm Wellcome on the first day:

I can’t forget the warm welcome I received on the very first day at Amal Academy. As I walked into the space, I noticed a sticky note on my desk with my name on it: “Welcome to Batch 331 😊 — M. Aafaq Anjum.” It was such a simple, yet thoughtful gesture, and it instantly made me feel special. The handwritten note, paired with the smiley face emoji, added a personal touch that eased my nerves.

In that moment, I felt a sense of belonging, like someone was truly happy to have me there. It was a small act, but it spoke volumes about the welcoming and supportive environment at Amal Academy. That warm gesture stayed with me, and every time I look back on that day, I remember how much it meant to me. It was a perfect start to what would become an unforgettable experience, and it truly set the tone for my time there.

First day Wellcome by Amal Team

In the first two weeks at Amal Academy, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. Starting something new always comes with a certain level of anxiety, and this time was no different. The thought of meeting new people, adjusting to a new environment, and stepping into unknown challenges made me feel uncertain. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and the idea of having to perform at a high level made me nervous.

At the same time, there was this excitement bubbling inside me. Amal Academy promised new opportunities to grow, both academically and personally, and that thought kept me going. I was eager to learn, meet new people, and explore what the academy had to offer. The nervousness was balanced by this sense of hope and curiosity about the future. Over time, as I settled into the routine and began to get to know my peers and instructors better, the nerves started to fade, but that initial excitement never truly disappeared. It was a period of transition, full of both challenges and promise.

Our Seminar Hall

Marshmellow Challenge on the very first day:

The Marshmallow Challenge during the group activity on the first day at Amal Academy is a moment I’ll never forget. It was one of those fun, yet insightful exercises designed to break the ice and get us working together right away. The task was simple: we had to build the tallest structure we could using just a few materials — spaghetti, tape, string, and a marshmallow. The catch was that the marshmallow had to be on top.

At first, it seemed like an easy task, but as we started, we quickly realized how challenging it was to get everything to balance. We were all brainstorming, laughing, and trying different strategies. There was a mix of confusion and excitement, with each of us contributing ideas and trying to figure out how to make the structure stand tall without it collapsing.

What stood out to me the most was how quickly we formed a team dynamic. Everyone was eager to pitch in, and the exercise forced us to think creatively, communicate, and collaborate — skills that were going to be crucial throughout our time at Amal Academy. In the end, our structure didn’t win, but the sense of teamwork and the fun we had made the whole experience memorable. It was a perfect way to start the journey and set the tone for the days ahead.

Marsh mellow Challenge a group activity

Mock interviews at Amal Academy:

Mock Interview Day at Amal Academy was an experience that I will always remember. It was a day filled with both anticipation and a little bit of nervousness, but it turned out to be incredibly valuable. The purpose of the mock interview was to help us prepare for the real-world challenges of job interviews, and it really gave me a sense of what to expect in the future.

As soon as I walked into the room, I could feel the energy in the air. There was a sense of seriousness, but also a supportive atmosphere, as everyone was there to help each other improve. We were paired with mentors or industry professionals who acted as interviewers, and each one took us through the typical interview process, asking questions about our skills, experiences, and goals.

What stood out to me was how much I learned, even from the small moments. I remember feeling a little nervous at first, unsure of how I would answer some of the questions, but the feedback I received afterward was constructive and encouraging. The interviewers were not there to judge, but to guide us, helping us understand where we could improve and where we were doing well.

The mock interview experience at Amal Academy was eye-opening. It not only helped me sharpen my responses but also gave me the confidence to approach interviews in the future with a clear understanding of what to expect. It felt like a safe space to make mistakes, learn, and grow. The day ended with a sense of accomplishment and a clearer path forward, and I left feeling much more prepared for the professional world.

Mock interview day

A little Dog in Concordia 2 (C2):

During the first two weeks at Amal Academy, we had an unexpected and lighthearted visitor — a little white dog that wandered into C2. The dog was playful and immediately became the center of attention, running around and engaging with the fellows. Everyone was laughing and petting it, enjoying the break from the usual routine. At one point, the dog noticed a cat nearby and, naturally, started chasing it. The cat, frightened by the playful pursuit, scrambled up the nearest tree to escape. We all watched with smiles as the little dog ran around the base of the tree, unable to reach the cat.

From that moment on, the little white dog became a regular weekend visitor. Each Saturday and Sunday, we’d see him roaming around, greeting everyone with the same playful energy. It was a little ritual that brightened our weekends, and we all grew fond of this furry friend.

However, about a month and a half later, we were heartbroken to learn through social media that the dog’s story had taken a tragic turn. We found out that the security guards at NUST University had shot the dog twice, and sadly, he was found dead. The news hit us all hard. It was a cruel and senseless end to an animal that had brought so much joy and light to our days.

The memory of that little white dog, and the laughter he brought to Amal Academy, stayed with us. It served as a stark reminder of the importance of kindness and compassion towards all living creatures. Though his life ended too soon, he left behind lasting memories that we would carry with us.

That Little white Dog

Amal Bingo Activity:

The Amal Bingo activity was one of those fun and engaging moments that brought everyone together during our time at Amal Academy. It was designed not just as a game, but as a way for us to get to know each other better in a relaxed and informal setting. The idea was simple: we each got a bingo card filled with different traits, hobbies, or experiences that we might have in common with others. The goal was to mingle with the group and try to find people who matched the descriptions on the card.

As we moved around, talking to different fellows, we learned little things about each other — from favorite foods to unique talents, places we’ve traveled to, or even shared interests. It was a lot of fun to see who could fill in their bingo cards the quickest and how many random but cool connections we could make.

At the same time, it was a fantastic icebreaker. People who might have felt shy or nervous at first were suddenly thrown into a situation where they had to talk to each other, laugh, and share a bit about themselves. By the end of the game, it felt like we had all bonded a little more, and it definitely helped create a more comfortable and friendly environment in the academy.

The Amal Bingo activity was a perfect example of how learning about each other, even in a playful setting, could build camaraderie and set the tone for the collaborative, inclusive atmosphere that defined the academy experience.

About the Instructor’s :

In the first two weeks at Amal Academy, I was fortunate to have two incredible instructors who made a lasting impact on me — Program Manager Mam Hina and Program Associate Mam Myra. Both of them were not only highly professional but also incredibly kind and polite, which made the learning environment feel welcoming and supportive from day one.

Mam Hina’s approach was calm and reassuring. She always took the time to listen, answer questions, and guide us through each task with patience. Her way of explaining complex concepts made them feel more manageable, and her encouragement motivated us to push ourselves further.

Mam Myra, too, was a constant source of positivity. Her interactions were warm, and she made sure that everyone felt included. She was always ready to offer advice or a helping hand, which made me feel comfortable asking questions and participating actively.

Thanks to their kindness and genuine care, I felt connected and attached to the program right from the start. They created a learning atmosphere where I felt empowered to grow, make mistakes, and improve. I learned so much in those first two weeks, not just in terms of skills but also about how important it is to be kind and approachable when working with others. Mam Hina and Mam Myra’s influence played a big part in shaping my experience at Amal Academy, and I’m grateful for everything they taught me during those early days.

Photo with mam Hina Program Manager at Amal Academy

Photo with Mam Myra Program Associate at Amal Academy And Fellow Usman

Cooperative Fellows:

I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such an amazing group of fellows who were always cooperative and supportive. From day one, they went out of their way to ensure that I felt welcome and comfortable. Whether it was offering help with a task, sharing advice, or simply being there to listen, they made sure I never felt alone in any challenge. Their readiness to lend a hand, without hesitation or expectation, created an environment of trust and camaraderie that made all the difference.

Their willingness to collaborate and support each other not only strengthened our collective efforts but also fostered a sense of unity and belonging. It’s rare to find such a group of individuals who genuinely prioritize the well-being of others while striving towards common goals. The positive energy they brought into every situation made even the toughest moments easier to navigate. I truly appreciate the sense of teamwork they embodied, and it’s something I’ll always carry with me.

Looking back, I realize how lucky I was to be surrounded by such thoughtful and dependable people. Their kindness, patience, and constant availability for any help didn’t go unnoticed, and I am grateful for each one of them. They made every experience richer and more meaningful, and their influence will remain a lasting source of inspiration for me.

Amal Fellows Group photo at differnet activities

With Amal Fellows at Southedge Cafe (AKA Mini Monal)