For Ridzuan Nasir, the years he spent at ASH were much more than just High School—they were the foundation of a lifelong passion for learning, community, and ambition.

 

Graduating in 2004, he completed his senior year at American School of The Hague while challenging himself academically through both Advanced Placement courses and the International Baccalaureate program. Outside the classroom, school life was equally rich. He played on the Junior Varsity Volleyball team and spent afternoons honing his musical skills through guitar lessons—memories that still resonate years later, including performing at events like Night to Remember.

 

One of the most defining influences from his time at ASH came from the mathematics classroom. It was in Ms. Inneke Van der Jagt’s calculus class. Her exceptional teaching, combined with lively after-school debates on integrals and derivatives, transformed mathematics from a subject into a passion. That spark grew into a clear academic and professional path, ultimately leading him to pursue both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in mathematics-related fields and to build a career in quantitative finance.

 

Reflecting on ASH, he describes the experience simply as “pure joy.” The school’s vibrant culture, diversity, and motivating environment made it one of the most unforgettable chapters of his academic life. Beyond academic excellence, ASH helped shape his outlook on life—nurturing curiosity, confidence, and a sense of belonging that continues to influence him today.

 

Several teachers stand out vividly in his memory, including Ms. Van der Jagt, Mr. Tisel, and Mr. Terry, whose guidance and passion left a lasting impression. Equally meaningful were the friendships formed along the way, with countless shared moments alongside friends such as Federico Nara, Jun Horii, Christophe Byron, Chris, Ben Brekke, and many others.

 

After ASH, his academic journey took him to the UK, where he completed an International Foundation in Mathematical Science and Computing at the University of Westminster, followed by a BSc in Mathematics & Statistics from Queen Mary University of London, and an MSc in Financial Mathematics from King’s College London.

 

Today, he lives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where life is full and meaningful. Married for over 13 years, he is a proud parent of three children—with another on the way. Professionally, he serves as Vice President and leads a quantitative finance multi-factor investing fund management team at one of the world’s largest public pension funds. In parallel, he also holds a director role within one of the organization’s real estate asset management subsidiaries. Looking back, he credits ASH not only with shaping his education, but also with shaping his ambition, values, and appreciation for community. As he focuses increasingly on personal fulfillment, long-term planning, and giving back, his years at ASH remain a touchstone—filled with music, mathematics, mentorship, and friendships that continue to matter.

 

Reconnecting with former classmates and the broader ASH community, he reflects with gratitude on a school that helped set the course for both a successful career and a deeply fulfilling life.