How AIS prepared 2024 graduates for university

From the challenges of the HSC and IB to the lifelong friendships forged through co-curricular activities, their reflections highlight the impact of an AIS education.

Noa – IB Graduate

Noa spent two and a half years at AIS, transferring from another international school in Singapore. “I also heard great things about the school’s IB program and teachers which also contributed to my decision.”

While she found IB challenging, Noa credits her teachers for helping her navigate the workload. “It was very challenging but also very rewarding. I had great teachers who taught me a lot and helped to make the experience less overwhelming.”

She was thrilled with her IB score of 43, especially her perfect 7s in all HL subjects. “I got a 7 in IB history, which was probably the most challenging class for me. I started the IB with it being a low 5, so I was very proud of myself.”

Noa’s next step is national service for three years before attending university to study physics or engineering. She also deeply valued AIS’s commitment to service. “Some of my most memorable experiences involved charity work such as the Cambodia book drive or Schools for Schools.”

Her advice for IB students? “Managing your time well is crucial. It’s always better to finish things well before deadlines to work without stress and perform better.”

Rae-Lin (Sophie) – IB Graduate 

Joining AIS in Year 9, Sophie was drawn to the school’s Southern Hemisphere academic calendar. The IB was a major adjustment, but she acknowledges its value: “Now that I’m done with it, I feel like the well-rounded nature of the IB has taught me valuable lessons and given me educational experiences that I will carry with me in my future studies and career.”

After scoring 39 points in the IB, Rae-Lin is now preparing to study law in the UK. Some of her most cherished AIS memories include the school trips, especially the Schools for Schools Nepal trip. “Despite being hard, it taught me to appreciate all that I have whilst also serving as a great bonding experience.”

Ruby – HSC Graduate 

Ruby joined AIS in 2014 after relocating from Hong Kong with her family. Looking for a seamless transition, she found AIS to be the perfect fit.

“The HSC program was challenging but rewarding, and despite the demands, I found it enjoyable due to the sense of accomplishment and the support I received from both my teachers and friends.”

Initially enrolled in the IB program, Ruby switched to HSC after realising it was a better fit. She was stunned when she received a 90.25 ATAR. “I just sat there staring at the screen with my sister, unable to fully process what I was seeing.”

Ruby is now heading to The University of Sydney to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Business Law with a minor in Psychology. Beyond academics, she cherishes the friendships built at AIS and the role sports played in her journey. “Sports have played a central role in my life, and that connection was strengthened at AIS.”

Her advice to future HSC students? “Put in the effort, but also enjoy it. Your final year will be your best year!” For future IB students, her advice is clear: “Start your coursework early, don’t procrastinate, and revise from the beginning of Year 11.”

Hayley – HSC Graduate

A student at AIS since the age of four, Hayley found the HSC program to be one of the best decisions she ever made. “It really gave me the freedom to study what I wanted and meet so many fantastic people.”

She recalls the support from her teachers as instrumental in her success. “The teaching staff were so incredible and really felt like they were rooting for you every step of the way.”

Excited for the next chapter, Hayley is off to Monash University to pursue a double degree in Science and Arts, majoring in Environmental Science and Human Geography. Reflecting on her time at AIS, she highlights the community and opportunities. “Whether it was playing sport in PE or dancing at the Global Festival, AIS provided so many opportunities to forge lifelong connections.”

Her top study tip? “Take advantage of all your resources, work consistently, and make good use of your study periods.”

The AIS Experience: More Than Just Academics

As they embark on their university journeys, their AIS experience will continue to serve as a strong foundation for their futures.

To our Class of 2024 – congratulations! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish. Ready to get started? Book a tour with us to learn more.