Regent House pupil Claudia Bowen, from Bangor, is taking to the sky, quite literally, as she jets off to America, to take up a place at a prestigious US university. Claudia, who gained 4 As in her A Level examinations also passed the entrance examination for Brigham Young University (BYU), in Utah.
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BYU, which is privately owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has approximately 35,000 students enrolled. Less than 50% of the 12,000 new applications received each year are successful. Not only did Claudia secure a place, she also gained a BYU Scholarship. She plans to study Elementary Education so that she can become a teacher. Mum Eva said "The caring characteristics that Claudia has, along with her love for children, will make her a fantastic teacher one day. We are very proud of her".
Claudia has not only excelled academically, she has also managed to pass, with merit, her grade 8 music examination, despite having to fit piano practice in whilst studying for her A Levels. Claudia shares her musical skills with the congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Bangor where she plays the organ each Sunday.
Dad Donovan commented, "They say, if you want something done, give it to a busy person. It seemed that the more Claudia was given the more she got done. Early morning seminary (daily scripture study class) before school, senior prefect at school, daily piano practice, not to mention her academic studies, involvement in church activities, and socialising". Claudia is reluctant, however, to take the credit for her success, and claims that she owes everything to her faith in God and the support of her family, friends and teachers.