Creative and caring, Siena joined our GEMS family in her eighth grade year and has been a contributing member from the start. Whether performing on stage, participating in student government, or involved in community service, Siena is committed to her work and views each endeavor as an opportunity to grow. Marjorie Blettry, French teacher, commented, “Siena is incredibly talented and creative. These qualities help her excel in many areas, both in and outside of school.”

Siena is also a student at School of Rock Chicago, taking voice and guitar lessons. Siena acknowledges, “These lessons help me to work on my musical abilities and also allow me to perform with people in different programs. I have learned how to work with others, which is a valuable skill that I will use for the rest of my life.” Her passion for music is also evident in her studies at GEMS. One accomplishment Siena is most proud of is completing her HL Music Recital. “It was the first time I got to sing by myself in front of a lot of people which was really fun. It took almost a year to finish but I was really proud of the work.” In so many activities, it is clear that Siena is living the IB Learner Profile.

Science teacher, Dr. Shannon Hurst noted that, “Siena is the most creative student in self-expression and discipline. She has perseverance and problem-solving skills that focus on global perspectives.” Siena attributes her international mindedness to the interactions with GEMS students and teachers. Classroom discussions centered around humanitarian and social justice issues, community service projects, Field Studies experiences, and developing relationships with her teachers helped Siena look at current events with a new perspective and global outlook.

From Beethoven to Bono, many artists believe, “Music can change the world.” From what we see of Siena’s passion for music and commitment to others, we at GEMS know that Siena has the heart and the soul to positively impact others. We wish her well on her next adventures. Siena proudly speaks of her GEMS journey in the following Q & A:

What school project or teacher that gave you a new perspective or changed your outlook on society?

One project that gave me a new perspective was going to the Rohingya Culture Center with Ms. Annadurai. This was really insightful because I got to learn about a new culture as well as help people. I was very thankful to take part in this community service activity. After we helped out we were able to go explore Devon Avenue and learn more about a new culture.

Describe some of your favorite Field Study experiences.

Some of my favorite field studies experiences have been doing community service. My class and I have made meals for multiple homeless shelters, and this has encouraged me to do my own community service with my family. Another field study that was really fun was going to Physics Day sophomore year. We were able to go to Six Flags and look at the physics behind roller coasters. This was a fun way to experience real-life uses of the physics we were studying in class.

What teaching and learning experiences do you feel are unique to GEMS?

GEMS is unique in many ways, but class discussions and our teachers are most unique. On multiple occasions we would randomly talk about current events because the topics were very important to us and the world. I found this very helpful as someone who wants to be aware of the world around me. The teachers care a lot about what they are teaching, and also really care about the students. These relationships I have with my teachers help me learn efficiently.

How has your GEMS journey prepared you for college?

I think that going through a full IB curriculum at GEMS prepared me for my college journey. The work is very rigorous, but it really sets you up for success. I'm so thankful that I was able to experience a full IB program at GEMS.