What did you most enjoy about your time at ICHK?

I enjoyed the small campus environment a lot. I felt that all the students and staff were very close and supportive of each other and seeing a familiar, friendly faces everywhere made a huge difference in my sense of belonging at the school. Even though I only came in during IB, I was able to make really close friends quickly because all the students were welcoming.

How do you feel that teachers at ICHK prepared you for life after school?

Mr. Newton was the headmaster during my time at ICHK and he really built such a positive school culture that centred on the growth mindset. This mindset was integrated into all curricula and as a result, the values of perseverance, effort, and continuous learning became pervasive throughout the classrooms. I want to give a specific shout-out to Ms. Baker, who was the Psychology teacher and TOK teacher. She took the time to teach me yoga during lunch times and talk to me about career goals, and really inspired me with her grounded energy and care for students. This is something that I will always carry forward with me. It was the first time I truly felt supported by my teachers and that they believed in me.

How do you think that ICHK differs from other schools?

I went to three different high schools so I have other schools to compare to! I believe the sense of community was far stronger at ICHK than any other school I attended. The sense of community and belonging was paramount to not only my academic success, but also my development during my most formative adolescent years. 

What were the key skills that you learnt at ICHK?

I learned to take initiative. ICHK helped me feel courageous in executing an idea for my own learning. For example, I was very passionate about fitness and wellness, so I had administrator approval to start a lunchtime fitness club where I led workouts or yoga-inspired practices. I always felt like my voice was heard and respected at ICHK, which made a huge difference in my own confidence as an individual. 

Any significant moments / highlights / achievements in your life that you may like to share, and do you think your time at ICHK helped you prepare for them?

I wouldn't be where I am today without ICHK. I attribute much of my personal growth, accomplishments, and career aspirations to my time at ICHK. Even upon being accepted into my PhD program, I reached out to Mr. White and Mr. Newton to share the news and express my gratitude—an acknowledgment of the pivotal role ICHK played in shaping the trajectory of my life.

When I first arrived at ICHK, I was a struggling student who had been asked to leave my previous school for disciplinary reasons. Mr. White, then the headmaster, took the time to listen to me with genuine care. He told me, “I believe just because you made bad decisions doesn’t mean you are a bad student.” With that, he offered me a second chance, provided I committed to making the most of it. That opportunity transformed ICHK into a place where I could truly thrive. The lessons I gained there—particularly about how nurturing and positive school climates foster resilience and well-being in young people—continue to inform both my clinical practice and my research today.