New Grade 12 Students in our Midst

Each year, AISG welcomes many new students into our community. Since the seniors are off on their second year in IB, new arrivals are unusual for this grade. However, the community welcomed two new students this school year and I had a chance to interview them. Ji Hyun P. and Luis D. are the two new seniors of AISG.

Because she is a student returning to AISG after a year away, I asked Ji Hyun about changes in the campus, followed by a question about the faculty. “For me, I guess,” she said, “[AISG] didn’t change much on the outside, so I wasn’t really thinking about it. There were definitely some changes. For example, the theater. I remember we used to perform in the gym, but now … the theater has finally finished construction. It still feels weird to go in the theater for purposes other than music concerts.” She also added an opinion on the new trashcans, stating that it’s easier for students and staff to recycle now—she thinks our school is becoming more environmentally friendly. On the topic of teachers, she mentioned, “I was sort of worried I wouldn’t make a great first impression with my teachers. As I will be taught by teachers whom I never had before, I was nervous during the first few days. However, they were very welcoming and created a warm, comfortable environment for me.”

Luis D., another addition to the AISG community, was interviewed with some general questions about the new environment. When questioned about orientation day, he responded, “Being new to the school and in China, I was glad to know that I can fit in well, as well as that there are people who I can ask for help in terms of catching up, which used to be worrying. …There were many welcoming peers.” Another source of anxiety for seniors is the fact that they will be facing IB year 2, but Luis isn’t too worried: “At first, I thought it was going to be much more of a challenge and a hassle for me continuing my DP in a new school, but I am confident that I can quickly catch up with a little more effort”. It’s good to know that Luis has the confidence to overcome the stress.

Here’s wishing for another successful year for both returning and new students in 2018-19.