For Grade 11 student Joseph, High School has been a journey of exploring interests, embracing challenges, and becoming actively involved in student life. Whether conducting scientific research, competing in debate tournaments, performing music, running cross-country, or volunteering in the community, Joseph has taken full advantage of the opportunities available at ASH.

 

Currently pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), Joseph's favorite subjects are Chemistry and Biology. Drawn to science-based courses, he appreciates the challenge and independence that the IB encourages. "The IB Programme has provided me with rigor and critical thinking," Joseph says. "What I enjoy most is the feeling of internationality. Students from all over the world are taking the same courses as I am."

 

Through the core requirements of the IBDP like Internal Assessments (IAs), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), Joseph has developed strong research skills while exploring new interests beyond the classroom. One of his most ambitious projects is his Extended Essay, which investigates the chelating effects of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on alpha-amylase activity. "The challenge is creating my own experiment and producing reliable data in a high school laboratory," he explains. "I'm grateful that ASH provides access to so many materials and resources that make this type of research possible."

 

Outside academics, Joseph has built an impressive record of involvement. Through NESDA, he has participated in debate tournaments in Madrid and Rome, strengthening his public speaking skills while connecting with students from around the world. He has also represented ASH at Model United Nations conferences, including THIMUN (The Hague International Model United Nations), one of the largest MUN conferences in the world, hosted annually in The Hague. ASH has a long-standing tradition of active participation in THIMUN, with students taking on delegate roles in simulated United Nations committees to debate real-world global issues.

 

Music has been another important part of his life. Having played clarinet for seven years, Joseph has performed with both the Middle School and High School bands, attended AMIS festivals three times, and played in a small ensemble outside of school. He has also been involved in cross-country for seven years, enjoying both the challenge of long-distance running and the camaraderie of being part of a team. Service and leadership have played a significant role in Joseph's ASH experience. As a student senator for three years, he helped organize Spirit Week and school dances. He also helped lead Operation Shoebox, a school-wide initiative that delivered 60 bags of food to people experiencing homelessness, and volunteered at a nearby retirement home.

 

Looking ahead, Joseph hopes to study medicine in Belgium. Reflecting on his time at ASH, he is grateful for the diverse experiences that have shaped him. Through science, leadership, service, athletics, and the arts, Joseph is a great example of the curiosity and spirit that define the ASH community.