Meadowridge Student Since: Grade 8
House: Kanaka

Describe your Meadowridge journey.

It’s been fun and interesting. I was super nervous when I first came here because it was my first time at a new school, but everyone was really welcoming, so the transition was easy. There’s been a lot of hard work, especially when moving from MYP to DP, but the support from teachers and parents has made a huge difference. Going through the Diploma Programme has also brought my friends and me closer because we were all getting through something challenging together.

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

I’ve become more mature. At first, I didn’t really know what IB was or how to study effectively, but over time, I figured out the habits that worked best for me and became much more confident. I was much shyer and timider when I first started.

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

That it’s okay to make mistakes. At first, I always wanted to be perfect, but I’ve learned that mistakes help you grow and improve later. You’re never going to be perfect, and what matters most is working as hard as you can.

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

Probably my first DP exam. I wasn’t prepared for some of the marks I received, and it was a wake-up call. From there, I learned how to improve myself, create better boundaries, and balance school with extracurriculars. DP was a huge learning curve for me.

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

English classes, overall. I really enjoyed literature and learning about different historical events and topics through HL English. It helped me realize what I wanted to pursue later and sparked my interest in education and teaching.

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

My first year of DP, especially before mocks, was the most challenging. I learned from my mistakes and started approaching my prep time and studying in a more positive and disciplined way, while also learning to take care of myself.

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

Being more open-minded and confident. In the past, I was less willing to try new things, but especially during DP, I learned to become more experimental and step outside my comfort zone.

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

I’m most proud of how hard I’ve worked and of overcoming the obstacles that came with DP.

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

That there are so many ways to learn and understand content. The Harkness discussions stood out to me especially. Being able to discuss material openly, watch films, and do projects made learning feel much more engaging compared to just reading and answering questions.

When did you feel most connected to the school community?

When I played basketball from Grade 8 to Grade 10. It helped me meet new people, better understand the school community, and build confidence. It really helped me feel like I belonged.

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

Welcoming, warm, and supportive. Everyone is here to guide you through whatever you’re facing. Teachers, students, and friends all become part of one community.

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

I’ll be studying education at Simon Fraser University. I’m excited because I enjoy working with kids, and I think I’ll find the program really interesting and meaningful.

Why did you choose this path?

I chose education because I wanted to explore a new experience and narrow down what I truly want to do in the future. My mom always told me I’d make a good teacher, and the more I thought about it, the more it felt like the right fit for me. I’d love to teach subjects like social justice or social sciences someday.

What does graduating from Meadowridge mean to you?

It’s exciting. I still remember when my brother graduated during my first year here, and now it’s finally my turn. I’ll miss the teachers and community, but I’m excited for what’s next.