Stepping into a new school can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. I have studied at Pakistan Embassy College Beijing (PECB) for 11 years of my life since kindergarten. It was a huge adjustment to join a new school halfway through my high school career. However, Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) has been nothing if not welcoming and has exceeded all my expectations. The entire community has made my transition incredibly smooth and hassle-free. With its lively environment and dedicated teachers/staff, CISB has now become my second home. The friendships I’ve formed and the opportunities I’ve been given, have truly developed my educational journey and shaped me into a more confident and well-rounded person.
CISB has challenged me academically and helped me exceed my previous limits.
The firm dedication to nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities has facilitated my growth as a learner. The teachers have gone above and beyond in their efforts to promote engaging and interactive learning experiences, especially during the challenging times of the COVID era. They consistently went the extra mile to encourage us to think critically and explore our passions, ensuring that our education remains lively and enriching. The guidance and expertise of our teachers have not only improved my academic journey but have also inspired me to push beyond my comfort zone. Transitioning from studying the IGCSE curriculum to the IB curriculum was a significant change for me. In my first year of the IB program, I was introduced to the Personal Project. Despite my initial fears, I was able to achieve great success in my Personal Project with the invaluable guidance and support of my supervisor.
Beyond the classroom, CISB provides us with a wide range of extracurricular activities, also known as ASAs (after-school activities), which have played a crucial role in allowing me to pursue my interests and uncover hidden talents.
Last year and continuing into this year, I eagerly participated in Stagecats and TEDx, where I had the opportunity to express my creativity and engage with like-minded individuals. I also got to participate in the Girls in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) program, which intensified my drive to explore the fields of science and technology. These extracurricular experiences have expanded my perspectives and equipped me with valuable skills and unforgettable memories. Engaging in these activities has not only provided me with communities of like-minded students who share similar opinions and interests but has also allowed me to develop essential skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management. These opportunities have enabled me to learn from and collaborate with diverse individuals. CISB’s emphasis on creativity, innovation, and collaboration has prepared me to thrive in this developing world.
Making new friends has been an incredibly positive experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with open arms by fellow students who have shown nothing but kindness and warmth towards me. The welcoming environment at school has made it easy for me to connect with others and establish meaningful friendships. Whether it’s during class discussions, extracurricular activities, or simply hanging out during breaks, my classmates have been supportive, considerate, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Their genuine friendliness has made me feel accepted and valued, and I am grateful for the sense of belonging they have created within our school community. Forming new friendships has not only allowed me to build individual connections but has also opened doors to diverse communities of like-minded individuals. For instance, being part of the Girls in STEMM program has connected me with inspiring young women who share the same passion. Collaborating on projects and engaging in discussions with them has been both empowering and enlightening.
Amidst the incredible experiences I have had at CISB, I must admit that I still hold a special place in my heart for my friends and teachers/staff from my previous school, PECB. Having spent 11 memorable years there, the bonds I formed were deeply rooted in my heart. Whenever I have the opportunity to reunite with my PECB friends and teachers, it warms my heart to see their genuine kindness and the steady support they continue to offer. In particular, my principal has been a source of positive energy and happiness, always expressing genuine cheerfulness in our reunions. Although my new school has become a cherished part of my journey, I will forever treasure the memories and connections I made during my time at PECB.
Images: Zonaira Ali
