Meadowridge Student Since: Grade 4
House: Alouette

Describe your Meadowridge journey.

I’ve grown a lot through the IB learner profiles and the integrated learning environment here. Many subjects were connected, especially throughout the PYP and MYP, which really helped me develop cross-subject thinking and understanding. The blended learning aspect has had a significant impact on how I approach learning today.

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

Probably the learning style and workload. Back then, it felt lighter than it does now, especially once you enter the DP. There’s a sharp turn, but MYP helps prepare you for it step by step.

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

I really believe in the power of community now. Before joining Meadowridge, I didn’t realize how much the environment and the people around you could shape your identity. The community here had such a positive impact on me and made me feel connected and welcomed.

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

During the Extended Essay process. I completed a Math EE, which is a niche and doesn’t have many examples or resources to follow. There wasn’t a set structure, so I had to build it step by step on my own. Through that process, I realized how important self-management and time management are. It showed me where I could improve as a learner, but I also liked having control over my own internal deadlines.

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

The Harkness discussions in Grades 9 and 10 for English and Individuals & Societies. That style of discussion really stayed with me because it teaches you how to think quickly, express your ideas clearly, and engage with others’ perspectives. It was such a valuable learning experience.

When did you feel most challenged here?

What did you take from that experience? Balancing my IAs and exam dates during the DP was probably the most challenging period of the DP. At the beginning of Grade 12, everything starts becoming due at once, and managing the external IB deadlines was difficult. It taught me the importance of time management and how to divide my attention equally among all six subjects.

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

Research skills. Through our IAs, especially the Extended Essay, we learned how to conduct and structure research in a manner like that of university-level papers. That experience prepared us well for future academic work.

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

Honestly, surviving the IB Diploma Programme. IB pushes you to become a well-rounded person, even in subjects you may not naturally enjoy. I’m proud of being able to balance all the subjects and push through the challenges.

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

How communication and being social are very important. You don’t expect communication skills to matter so much in every area, but whether it’s math, presentations, or summative assignments, being able to communicate effectively is a huge part of success.

When did you feel most connected to the school community?

During the MYP music concerts. I really enjoyed music, especially guitar, and performing original songs for parents and other students made me feel connected and recognized within the community.

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

Welcoming. Everyone is kind, and you can get close to the people around you. You genuinely feel like you’re part of the community.

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

I’ll be pursuing engineering. I’m excited about applying my knowledge to real-world situations, and honestly, I’m excited for more math.

Why did you choose this path?

Engineering feels like a very practical path, especially with how quickly the job market is changing. I want to do something that can positively impact the world and help communities through practical solutions.

What does graduating from Meadowridge mean to you?

It means stepping into a completely new experience. I’ve been here for so long that it feels like my life really began here. It’s exciting to enter a new environment that’s unfamiliar, but it’s also emotional knowing I’ll be leaving behind a community that’s been such a big part of my life.