WISS Alumni | Where are They Now?

What are some of the great takeaways from your time as a WISS student?

The skills, values, and work ethic that I learned during my time at WISS doing both the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (IBDP) allowed me to effortlessly navigate the challenges life has thrown my way since I graduated. The learning environment helped me foster an understanding of how I work best, and I greatly value the lessons I learned from faculty, peers, and the IB curriculum. I appreciate the well-rounded education I received at WISS, especially regarding writing, research, and building a diverse base of knowledge that helped me grow as a student and person.

Could you share some of the most memorable moments of your time at WISS?

Some of my favorite moments at WISS included all of my musical performances! I got to perform as part of a band with fellow music class peers at various school events and at a local Battle of the Bands. I remember being so proud when we won an award for our original song, and I felt so accomplished knowing this was something we were able to create as part of our learning opportunities at WISS. I never considered myself an amazing singer or guitar player, but performing with my peers was so much fun that it gave me the confidence to go all out on stage.

Overall, the support I received from teachers during large projects and interactive elements in class made learning so enjoyable - even through the challenging times we faced in the Diploma Programme. I have fond memories of the fun times my classmates and I shared in some of our classes. It made it easier to remember to balance my study to allow opportunities to experience good times with my friends and classmates.

What are you doing now, and what are your career goals?

I am currently in Beijing studying and working on my thesis for my master’s degree in Public Policy from Peking University. Before that, I graduated from the University of Rochester in the United States with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. I hope to combine the scope of my undergraduate and graduate studies and work in Environmental Policy or a similar field.

From my time performing at school, I still have a deep appreciation for media and entertainment - and I hope to be able to do work as a hobby in this field as well. Over quarantine, I grew my personal social media channel to 100,000 followers making content about language, culture, and comedy. It made me so excited to envision a future where I can work with both my passions, the environment, and entertainment.

What advice would you give to current WISS students as they’re looking ahead to college and careers?

My most significant piece of advice is to choose a college that has not only a major you intend to study but also an environment in which you think you can thrive. I chose the University of Rochester because it was a school that was strong in STEM but also had a thriving art and music community, which I value greatly. I knew that even if I were to change majors (which I did!) or find elements of studying difficult, the school was one where I could find like-minded friends and where the environment was one I would enjoy.

As for careers - I would say not to stress too much if you still don’t know what you would like to do. Some people figure out what they want to be in elementary school, but for others, it can take being in college to find out. Pick a school that can allow you to study multiple majors you are interested in - and take some diverse classes your freshman year before making a solid decision. Keep your options open!

What would you tell a parent considering sending their child to study at WISS?

The IB is challenging but incredibly rewarding - so I would not exchange my experience with the IB system for anything. The education provided at WISS is well-rounded and can shape your child into a global-minded, inquisitive individual ready to take on the world.

Once a Tiger, Always a Tiger!

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