Meet Maxwell Podolsky, Class of 2022 IB Diploma Graduate

Maxwell joined the BIS Abu Dhabi family in Year 12 and after two terrific years at the school, he has proudly graduated and is heading to Boston University to study Economics.  

When asked how completing the IB Diploma Programme helped get Maxwell get into university, he replied: “I believe that completing the IB Diploma Programme played a large role in my acceptance to Boston University as they recognised the rigorous nature of the programme. The IB Diploma Programme is much more internationally renowned than other programmes, which was also appealing to the university admissions officers as it shows a sense of ease within a multi-ethnic group of people.  Also, at university, I will gain credits for all three of my Higher-Level courses, meaning I will be able to graduate early because I will not have to take as many classes as others to complete the course.” 

Maxwell is following in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Junior and heading to Boston University to study Economics. For his Class of 2026, 81,000 students applied and 3,100 were accepted, which is a 3.8% acceptance rate, Maxwell should be extremely proud of his achievement. “I chose Boston University as it has a very strong Economics department, which I plan to major in, as well as an esteemed History programme, which I plan to minor in. The university sits right in the city of Boston which is largely regarded as the best university town in the world given the presence of over 35 universities/colleges in the area. I am most looking forward to living in a city environment as that is something I have never experienced. More specifically, I am excited for the change in weather as Boston gets extremely cold, this probably explains why Boston University has the best ice hockey programme in America. The extra bonus is that I will be closer to my family.”    

Why Economics? “I took economics at IGCSE level and very much enjoyed it. I chose to continue to explore Economics at University as it will keep my options open in terms of potential fields of employment in the future. Employees with a background of Economics can enter almost any field, which is something I value.” Replied Maxwell.  

Maxwell may have only been at BIS Abu Dhabi for two years, but he still made his mark and was a valued member of the U19 football team. His fondest memory was when they were once again allowed to play post pandemic, and they beat BSAK 4-1!  “Although I was only at the school for two years, I will definitely miss the connections I made with my friends and teachers.” said Maxwell. 

Maxwell is looking to become an Economist or Market Analyst when he completes his time at Boston University, whatever he decides to do, he will succeed in, just like he did at BIS Abu Dhabi. Congratulations, Maxwell!