Rounding off the 2024-25 school year, exam season is finally here! For this graduating cohort, the Class of 2025, these exams mark the end of their high school chapter and the most important exams of their lives. With over 10 students attaining a predicted grade of 45, the results of this cohort are something to watch; however, that is certainly not the only impact they have left on CDNIS. Insight interviewed several Grade 12 students on the highlights of their high school experience to gain insights into their time here.
The event most commonly referenced as the “most memorable experience” was Grade 12 Experience Week. The 7-day trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, involved staying at a local international school, visiting local villages, and white-water rafting. “Whether it was talking late into the night, hiking for 6 hours under the scorching sun, or learning to speak Thai, I enjoyed every moment and will cherish this experience forever,” Bryan C said. The appeal to this final experience week didn’t end there, with many individuals mentioning how the cohort got closer through the trip. “I would say the best experience I had here was [Grade 12] Experience Week,” added Calum B. “We bonded together as a grade, so it was really fun.”
Bonding within the grade wasn’t limited to Experience Week. “I enjoyed meeting new people the most,” said Kana S when asked about her favourite part of CDNIS. “There’s a good community here.” The strength of the school community was exhibited through the grade’s teamwork abilities; this year’s graduating class was the first cohort to work together as a grade to organise a Grade Spotlight Event, which went so successfully that school administrators decided to make it a recurring function.
The CDNIS community was mentioned as something the Class of 2025 would miss most. “[I feel] close with everyone in the grade,” one interviewee said. Another noted, “The people at CDNIS – my friends, teachers, counsellors, and the staff […] made CDNIS feel like a second home.” Kiana L, Editor-in-Chief of Insight, summarised this: “What I’ll miss the most about CDNIS is the extremely welcoming environment and all the great relationships I’ve built with friends and teachers.”
Although students will miss the community at CDNIS, they express excitement about starting the next chapter of their lives at university. Choosing their courses, experiencing living alone, and meeting new people were all key points raised when asked specifically about what they look forward to most.
To end the interviews, the seniors were asked to advise younger students. “Have fun before DP,” Gabriella Y said, “And don’t spend all your time studying.” More students echoed this sentiment, telling younger students to “not stress too much before DP” and to “enjoy your time before Grade 11”. Other seniors gave tips on how to succeed at school. “Start studying the summer before DP to be prepared, because you’ll be busy when school starts,” Natalie W recommended. Similarly, Bryan C told students to “have confidence in yourself, especially when things get difficult. Learn to manage your time well and pursue things that you are truly passionate about.”
Jasper W advised students to embrace the opportunities CDNIS has to offer. “The biggest tip I’d give is to ensure you’re not wasting your time here at CDNIS. Make the most out of the facilities, resources, teachers, extracurriculars, and the various programs we have at school. Don’t take these things for granted and take advantage of them for future endeavours.”
The Class of 2025 leaves CDNIS with impressive academic achievements, a wealth of experience, and friendships that will last a lifetime. Their time here has revealed a deep appreciation for the opportunities offered by CDNIS and the strong sense of community. As they navigate the next chapter of their lives, we are confident this graduating class will excel in their future endeavours!
