Beimnet Kassaye Beyene, a reticent son of Kalehiwot Church pastor, has clocked CGPA 3.71, outwitting 9th batch of 36 graduates from Architecture and Urban Planning Department, prefers to pursue his Master studies in Design to strengthen foundation in the area of his liking.

He finds solace in Christian devotional songs and readings; he said when it comes to preparing for exam, ‘‘I wasn’t very organized, but I knew very well, when to study and relax. I didn’t do unnecessary slogging, but when I found it was time to burn the midnight oil, I did it willingly.

Of his seven siblings, eldest sister Haymanot Kassaye is teaching at Sawla Preparatory School. And way back, another sister and a brother graduated in Logistics and Veterinary Medicine are employed with government office at Arba Minch and an NGO in Addis Ababa respectively.

On his academic achievement, he said, CGPA 3.71 is satisfying, but I expected more, which couldn’t happen due to personal reason. He attributes entire credit to his father and deceased mother; ‘‘My teachers also played remarkable role in what I could do,’’ he said.

Studying over 50 different courses in 5 & ½ years was absolutely amazing; for design course, is close to his heart as it has many teachers on board, he could have approached anyone if one disappoints. He said, building material and construction course is very good.

Replying on his priority, he said, first, I will look for scholarships abroad, if it doesn’t materialize, then prefer to pursue Master in it from Addis Ababa University.

Giving a piece of advice to those still pursuing studies, he said, ‘‘There is no alternative for hard work; first of all you need to schedule and be organized. One must know when it’s time to study and how much time to invest. People have misconception that slogging helps but what is crucial that you must understand and get the gist of whatever taught to you on that particular moment.’’

(Corporate Communication Directorate)