Is there a particular teacher, project, or Field Study experience that gave you a new perspective or changed your outlook on society?

Both Mr. Bean and Mr. Christensen have shaped my outlook on society to a very large degree. I speak to them almost every day. I believe that their philosophies are extremely insightful and help me look at an issue more objectively.

What are your plans after graduation?

I'm immediately starting my Bachelor's degree in fine arts at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, with the hopes of later studying abroad in Japan.

What clubs/sports/extracurricular activities did you participate in during your high school years (either at GEMS or outside of school) and how did these activities help you grow as a person?

I mainly participated in extracurricular activities related to art, such as being an apprentice for a 2D art lab studio at Gallery 37.

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

There is definitely that one-on-one aspect that I have in my very small 12th-grade class. It's much easier to communicate and listen to the teacher. I feel like these kinds of learning environments are very helpful in boosting concentration.

How has your GEMS journey prepared you for college?

The IBDP program essentially is a simulation of college-level lessons and coursework. Hopefully when I start college I can breathe a sigh of relief that I got the experience early.

Where do you imagine yourself 10 years from now?

I have to focus mostly on the present, but my most ambitious goal is that 10 years from now, I imagine myself having directed my first animated feature film with a small studio crew in Japan.

What advice would you give to incoming ninth graders?

Enjoy the ride! It'll be over before you know it.