Simran successfully completed the International Baccalaureate and graduated from St Andrews in 2016. Simran attended university in Canada and is now back working her magic at St Andrews International School.
We have asked Simran numerous questions about her experiences from life at school, how useful it was to complete the International Baccalaureate and about her 3 years at the University of British Columbia in Canada.
My favorite memory has to be the trip to Tanzania during spring break. It was an awe inspiring experience learning the culture as well as the minimalist lifestyle that people were living by. We got the opportunity to set up some electric work for the houses and lay bricks for some of the upcoming houses.
Most importantly, we learnt how individuals valued their community and sense of belonging to the group brought them so much pride and joy. I definitely took that learning and try to use it in my day to day life. Hoping to find happiness in the most basic things.
The International Baccalaureate prepared me for the upcoming challenges that I was about to face in University. In my first year at The University of British Columbia I was bombarded with several research papers with little to no explanation, as professors imagined we would be familiar with the concept. I had seen some of my friends struggle with the assignments, but due to the IB, I had enough experience and was prepared to make it work.
Above all, I was also able to juggle between my academic life and social life, this was definitely because the IB allowed me to broaden my horizons and divide focus between several subjects and commitments such as the Extended Essay and CAS.
To have confidence in themselves and know that they are going to make it. The teachers are really supportive so ask them lots of questions. Also, do not let go of any opportunities that come your way. This is because once the results come out, there will be no regrets and a doorway to immense opportunities.
I went to study at The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. This is because it is ranked 2nd in Canada and has a lot of cultural diversity. The campus is gorgeous and it is well known for a degree in Psychology, which I pursued for my undergrad. I also really wanted to live in Vancouver, due to its air quality and nature.
University was a wild ride, it would be hard for me to point out the best part. However, the friends that I made there have truly become family, and I could not have made it through without them. Another thing I loved was the giant food portions and occasional trips to the countryside.
I had the opportunity to study with some amazing people and professors that made me view the world with a broader perspective. I also carried out several research projects that were part of my psychology degree. I spent 4 years there and met many different people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
I came back to Bangkok and looked for opportunities. I reached out to St Andrews to see if I could gain experience in the inclusive learning support team. I completed an internship which turned into a full-time role. I currently work at St Andrews International School as a Language Support teacher. It has been an honour to work with such talented people and inspiring students.
I will continue my learning in a Master’s of Counselling degree in Melbourne, Australia, at Monash University in 2021.
I want to continue working in the field of Education. When I see students, I see future leaders and people who will make a difference. Therefore, I want to do my best, by putting my best foot forward. Later in life, I want to run/join a charity and do something helpful for humankind.
As part of the St Andrews Careers programme, Year 10 and Year 12 students had the valuable opportunity to hear from 20 industry professionals, including alumni, about various career pathways. The morning panel discussions provided insights into professional routes, required qualifications, and essential interpersonal skills for workplace success.
As Term 3 comes to an end, three senior students, Eleonore, Natalie, and Ananya, reflect on their experiences in the IB Diploma Programme at St Andrews International School Bangkok. Perhaps one of the most meaningful projects Ananya and Natalie took on during their senior studies was starting a foundation with a few other friends called Today4tomorrow – an initiative to provide opportunities to underprivileged girls in Thailand.
Congratulations to St Andrews senior student Natalie, who received an offer at the University of Bath to pursue a degree in Psychology. Have a read to learn more about Natalie’s perspective on the IB Diploma Programme and the endless possibilities that await her exploration.
