“Building Your Future”: Guest Lecture for High School Students at KAFU

Participants were students from Shokan Ualikhanov School-Lyceum No. 3, School-Gymnasium No. 12, Lev Gumilev Gymnasium No. 38, Ybyrai Altynsarin Secondary School No. 39, and General Education School No. 50.

The guest speaker was James Simons, an international lecturer and expert with extensive practical experience, representing the organization Co-Serve International.

During the session, the high school students learned about the importance of soft skills and life skills in their studies, future careers, and daily lives. The speaker discussed skills that help individuals interact effectively with others, overcome challenges, make well-considered decisions, and move confidently toward their goals. The meeting continued as a lively, open dialogue; students actively asked James Simons questions and received insightful answers. The direct interaction with the speaker generated great interest, and the warm atmosphere left the participants with a highly positive and memorable impression.

Special emphasis was placed on pursuing one’s dreams, setting goals, and finding one’s own path. Participants were also introduced to the “Building Blocks of Life” concept—the fundamental elements of a successful and purposeful life.

The event also served as an invitation for the students to further explore the Kazakh-American Free University. Natalia Alexandrovna Nesterenko, Advisor to the Rector of KAFU, addressed the participants on behalf of the university, inviting the schoolchildren to learn more about the university’s educational programs and opportunities—and, in the future, to become part of the KAFU student community.

Such meetings help high school students broaden their understanding of the skills in demand in today’s world and approach the choice of their future educational and professional paths more thoughtfully.