Meadowridge Student Since: Grade 6
House: Alouette

Describe your Meadowridge journey.

I joined Meadowridge in Grade 6, completely new to the IB Programme. As I moved through the years, I developed my logical thinking skills. Entering high school and then the Diploma Programme (DP) was a major step up in difficulty. I learned how to reflect on my learning and experiences, which really helped me grow. The community here is incredibly inclusive. Meadowridge encourages you to explore all your interests, and I feel much more well-rounded because of it. 

When you think back to who you were when you started here, what feels most different now?

In Theory of Knowledge (TOK), I learned about the idea of having either a 'soldier' or a 'scout' mindset. Back in Grade 6, I definitely had a soldier mindset—I thought I was right and wanted to prove others wrong. Over time, Meadowridge helped me learn to understand other people's perspectives and why they think the way they do. Now, I try to consider the problem fully before insisting on my own viewpoint. The diversity here means there are always many perspectives in every classroom. 

What’s something you believe now that you didn’t before attending this school?

I’ve realized that school isn’t just about academics—even though that’s an important part. It’s also about making time for things outside of class. School isn’t only about studying and getting good grades; it’s about helping the community and making a difference in the world. The IB and every subject here bring in an environmental perspective, always connecting what you learn back to the world and our environment. 

Can you describe a moment that changed how you see yourself as a learner or person?

The Extended Essay process really changed how I see myself. When I finished, I could look back and see all the work I put in—I’d accomplished something bigger than I ever thought I could. At first, writing a 4,000-word essay seemed impossible. But reading over my finished EE, I actually felt professional. I even explored how calcium chloride affects ripening in mangos—I had to buy about 30 mangoes! 

What’s one class, project, or experience that really stayed with you—and why?

My Design project was almost like a preview to the Personal Project. I’m especially attached to it because I got to explore one of my interests with the support of the school. I built a first-person drone—and I still have it!

When did you feel most challenged here? What did you take from that experience?

In the middle of the DP, the workload and difficulty became overwhelming. I learned to stay ahead of deadlines and not to procrastinate.

What skills do you feel you’re leaving with that will actually matter in your next chapter?

Communication. I used to think of my teachers as just there to teach me, but during the DP, I started to see them as partners who were taking on the challenge with me. That shift really helped me develop my communication skills, which are still a work in progress. My mom always reminds me that in university, professors are only available during office hours and class—you have to build your own community and communicate effectively.

As you move on to your next chapter, what are you most proud of?

Definitely the DP Programme. It was a huge challenge. When I compare myself to people I’ve met from around the world, I realize the DP is a whole level above most other academic programs. It’s given me a real step ahead in life.

What’s something you learned here that you didn’t expect to?

Probably all of my wilderness camping skills. If it wasn’t for Meadowridge, I wouldn’t have learned about the Duke of Edinburgh Award program. With the school’s support, I think I’ll earn my Gold Award by the end of this week. Now, I definitely know how to set up a tent, pitch a tarp, and build a fire.

When did you feel most connected to the school community?

Spirit Day. You compete against other houses, and I love how Meadowridge randomizes which house you’re in—there’s always at least one friend, or a whole group of friends, in different houses. It really helps you connect across the school. And of course, the ice pops at the end of the day are a highlight.

How would you describe the community here to someone who’s never experienced it?

It’s like a bundle of popsicle sticks—everyone is bonded together. If you try to break one stick, it’s easy, but when you have a bunch grouped together, they’re much harder to break. That’s what the Meadowridge community feels like.

What are you doing next, and what excites you about it?

I’m doing a dual degree in biochemistry and biomolecular engineering at New York University (NYU). I’ve looked over the required courses; they’re pretty extensive. I’ll be taking Biology, Physics, Chemistry, and Math.

Why did you choose this path?

My interest started before I came to Meadowridge, from different teachers and classes.

What does graduating from Meadowridge mean to you?

I feel like I’ve completed the tutorial level in life. It means so much to me—like taking the first step up a flight of stairs.