GANIEL Akrisha Arun Krishnan is a 21-year-old Filipino-Indian studying Communication at Far Eastern University (FEU).
The middle child of five girls, Gan describes her childhood as a sheltered one, filled with memories of playing dolls and dress up with her siblings. But sisters will be sisters, and in one intense moment, one of them got a pair of scissors and cut Gan’s bangs so short she couldn’t put a clip on it!

GANIEL in her element BLACK top PHOTO BY JUAN BENJAMIN JANEO — GANIEL in her element BLACK top
PHOTO BY JUAN BENJAMIN JANEO

As a courtside reporter in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), Gan goes on air every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. She considers the gig the greatest experience of her life so far; she learns a lot from the numerous challenges that come with the territory of live reporting, and enjoys sharing stories about the athletes in the games.

Impressed by the hard work and passion displayed by the ABS-CBN sports team, which broadcasts the UAAP, Gan is inspired to work in media after college. She can either be a news
reporter—or the newsmaker herself. This Star Magic talent sings, acts and plays instruments.

her element BLACK top with metallic lace print, Human; pleat Kashieca — BLACK top with metallic lace print, Human; pleated skirt, Kashieca

To be Ultimate turns the tables on her for a quick Q & A.

What makes you happy?
Seeing progress in every work that I do.

How do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I would definitely want to be a news reporter someday. Hopefully things work out for me.

If you were a UAAP player, which sport would you play and why?
I would like to play volleyball because of all the sports I know, volleyball is so difficult for me. I fancy to be like those ladies who jump and spike, ’cause they look so cool doing it! But two weeks ago I sprained my right hand trying to play volleyball, so I guess it’s not for me.

You’re leading the FEU volleyball finals as captain. Pick three people to compete with you.
Remy Palma, Alyssa Valdez and Mika Reyes!

DISTRESSED dress shirt, light-wash denim jeans, Vero Moda

If you could spend the day with anyone in the world, who would it be and what would you do?
I think it would be my dad. I would love to spend the day with him because I don’t see him often.

What is a regular day like for you as a courtside reporter?
Game day is report day. I have to do some interviews and reports on the spot. It’s tiring but so much fun!

What advice would you give to university students who also want to be courtside reporters?
Well, the audition process varies every year and you just really have to be ready if you want to get the spot. It doesn’t matter if you’re not sure about the technical terms because you’ll learn them in the process. But you have to really speak well and maintain your poise in front of the camera even when you’re stuttering. If you don’t get it on the first try, you can go back and audition again. There’s always a perfect time for everything.

What was your most embarrassing moment as a courtside reporter?
I think it’s every time I stutter in front of the camera. It’s so difficult to stay composed with all the drumming and cheering, you really have to concentrate a lot!

Which would you rather do—sing or dance?
Sing, because I would embarrass myself more if I dance.

What’s the song that’s currently on repeat for you?
“We Don’t Talk Anymore,” by Charlie Puth.

Choose one UAAP athlete from any school and sport that you’d like to switch roles with for a day and why.
De La Salle University’s Mika Reyes. She plays volleyball so well and I really want to be able to do what she does, so I would definitely pick her.