The Where Are They Now blog series looks at the lives of Beijing International School alumni after the last school bell has tolled. Sarah Beckley graduated from International School of Beijing in 2012. A talented artist and athlete while a student at ISB, she reminisces about her school days and brings us up to speed on life post-Beijing.
Timeline since High School
What have you done since leaving high school?
I am currently pursing a degree in International Business and at the University of South Carolina.
What has been your greatest lesson?
Not only did my time at ISB teach me some very useful study skills but it also helped me to become more outgoing. At ISB I joined various sports teams and played basketball and rugby. However, having been away at college for a year and a half, I now realize that if you want to go anywhere in life you must be outgoing no matter how awkward or shy you may feel. Being outgoing has been a key component with my ongoing participation in the social sorority at college.
Looking Back
What do you miss most about high school?
I definitely miss having the opportunity to go on the China Link trips at ISB. When visiting different places in China, I gained a fantastic insight and understanding of China culture that has benefitted me in my International Business classes.
Advice for Students
What general advice would you give to current high school students?
Having the opportunity to attend high school at ISB has made a powerful impact on my life. The greatest advice that I can give current students is to never falter in your studies and keep your determination to succeed in whatever you do in life. Keeping this in mind has been beneficial to me in college.
Benefits of Your Beijing Roots
What influence, if any, has your experience as an international student in Beijing had on your choices and experiences?
The opportunity for students who attend schools in Beijing is truly invaluable; for wherever they end up, the mere fact that they went to school and lived in Beijing makes them stand out.
Photos courtesy of Sarah Beckley
