Early College Start

Merrill Mandell describes herself as a "pretty average kid," but there's nothing average about securing a spot at Florida Polytechnic University at age 16. Merrill, a year 11 student at BISC, will join the freshman class in August of this year, with plans to study computer engineering.

Merrill joined the British International School of Charlotte in May, 2011 as a Y7 student and has flourished with the learning, education and experiences the school's curriculum and community provided.

Julie Tombs, Head of Upper School, remembers Merrill's first days of school and marvels at her "strong ability to visualize complex geometrical situations."  Ms. Tombs, keen to further develop this visualization, integrated strategies known to boost such skills and even further enhanced Merrill's personalized education, by introducing other favorites such as origami in Geometry class.

Passing the ACT entrance exam at 15 years old was a feat itself, and Merrill is already focused on future challenges.  She will earn nine International GCSEs in August, and hopes to get into the world of cybergaming and computer programming while in college.

"Merrill soared into the stratosphere once she was provided the opportunity for a great education that had no bounds. That great education allowed her to begin her college studies two years before most American students," said Merrill's father, Ben Mandell.

Although excited about her next step at Florida Poly in Orlando, FL, Merrill says she will miss the BISC teachers and students, and being involved in a class that is so interactive. 

In addition to cybergaming, Merrill loves programming HTML and CSS and has a great eye and hand for art.

We wish Merrill the best of luck!