IGBIS Newsletter, Issue 363.
February 2, 2024
IGBIS Newsletter, Issue 365.
February 16, 2024
From the Elementary Principal
By Simon Millward
Last week our U11 girls were victorious in their KLSL football tournament. After some very close games with the final going into extra time, our girls managed to get the all-important goal and win the tournament. The picture below shows a lot of tired but smiling faces.
This week has all been about the Lunar New Year celebrations with lots of hard work going into producing an entertaining assembly. We hope that all of the parents who made it to the dress rehearsal had a flavour of what the final assembly was going to be all about today.
It was incredible to see so many of our Elementary students dressed in either traditional Lunar New Year clothes or red. Check out our grade 3s as an example!
What I can say is that the assembly was a dance extravaganza. We had dances from our Early Years 2 students, a ballet performance from our Grade 5 students, a fan dance from some Grade 6 students, a contemporary compilation of dances from our Secondary dance club, a contemporary water fan dance from two of our Grade 6 students, and not forgetting a wonderful student and parent Chinese traditional dance. It was upbeat, it was calm, and the dances themselves contained synchronicity and creativity. They were all amazing.
Our Lunar New Year assembly was not limited to just dance performances. The school orchestra as usual performed exceptional pieces, and our Grade 2 students added a different dimension to the performances. Our Grade 2 students explained and demonstrated how families celebrate the Lunar New Year with an entertaining role play.
Thank you to all the performers and teachers who made this a successful assembly. I hope you enjoy the celebrations this weekend, see you all back to school on Thursday, 15 February 2024.
From the Counselling Team
As always we are super thankful to the committed group of parents who attended our monthly mental health Coffee with the Counsellors on Friday morning. This week we focused on Healthy Relationships.
We looked at:
- Your Dream Relationship
- Love Languages
- Dealing with Conflict
- ATL Skills (Approaches to Learning Skills) - In Particular, Social Skills and how having a foundation in these skills is essential to help build and grow healthy relationships
If you did not get to the session today, here is a snapshot of what we covered.
If any of this spikes your interest and you were unable to make it to the session, please take a look at the slides from the presentation. Here.
Have a great Lunar New Year break!
Best Regards
The Counseling Team
- John Schuster (ES) john.schuster@igbis.edu.my
- Leanne Harvey (MS) leanne.harvey@igbis.edu.my
- Amanda Lopez (HS) amanda.lopez@igbis.edu.my
Terry Fox Run 2024
Hi everyone!
It is Maloé and Wen Yi, and we are back for the Terry Fox Run 2024!!
We held this run at the beginning of the year, and we will be doing so again on the 16th of February (Friday). This year the run will be a little different as it will be held in the evening from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm. We will also be having booths so make sure to bring money! The food/drinks range from RM2 - RM5.
For those of you who were not here during the first run. The Terry Fox Run is an event in which you run/walk 3.2 km (8 laps) around the field. All the money that we raise goes to Cancer Research Malaysia, which is a company that is in liaison with the Terry Fox Foundation.
To join the run, you have to donate. You can donate as much as you want, but if you donate anything over RM35, you will receive a shirt designed by Ryan Reynolds from the Terry Fox Foundation.
Please sign up with this link, and any donation is greatly appreciated. The sign-up form closes next Sunday, as we will be giving out the ordered shirts beforehand. If you are sadly unable to join the run but would still like to donate, please contact wenyi.t027@igbis.edu.my or maloe.b027@igbis.edu.my.
If you have placed a donation but are unable to come on the day, please give us the money throughout next week.
Here are some other links that you may find helpful:
Future Planning Weekly Update
Highlights of the Week
SAVE THE DATES: Upcoming Events
STUDENTS & PARENTS
Monday, 19 February 2024
Study in Canada Information Session
8:15 am - 9:15 am, PVO
Students and Parents are invited to this panel and information session to learn more about university options in Canada. We will begin with a 30-minute introduction by each university (10 minutes each), followed by a 30-minute panel discussion, including a Q&A session. To ensure the session is tailored to benefit the students and parents, please scan the QR code and complete the Google Form to gather topics and questions for the panel discussion. To attend, students MUST scan the QR code and complete the Google Form to account for attendance. Students who do not register will not be allowed to attend.
PARENTS
Wednesday, 28 February 2024
What’s Next? Wednesday Session: The Declared
8:15 am - 9:15 am, PVO
Do your students know exactly what they want to study? Is your student ready to get on with their education? We will highlight locations around the world that love students who know exactly what they want to study.
From Today’s Coffee with the Counselors
access the presentation slides HERE
Past Presentations & Coffee Mornings
Parents and students can access all past information sessions and coffee mornings HERE.
For Grade 12s
For Grade 12sUniversity Decisions Rolling In!
Students, as you receive university decisions, PLEASE let me know!
And PLEASE UPDATE YOUR UNIFROG👉
Whether the decisions are a decline, deferral, or acceptance, I would like to celebrate you for all of your bravery and hard work.
Grades 9, 10 and 11 Future Planning Sessions
Grades 9, 10 and 11 Future Planning Sessions- Grade 9 - Our Grade 9 Future Planning Session kicked off on Wednesday, 31 January in Grade 9 Core & Study Hall. Our first session was a review of credits, and students completed a credit check. HERE are the slides from the activity. Starting in February, students will be onboarded to Unifrog, and we will begin our future planning research!
- Grade 10 - Our next lesson will be on Monday, 22 January. Congrats to all of the students on the fabulous PP presentations this past week!!!
- Grade 11 - We had our 5th lesson this past Wednesday during AMP. You can find the slides HERE.
Our next lesson will run through Study Block on 15, 16, and 20 February 2024.
Grade 10 Transition into Grade 11/12 - Next steps
- 15 - 16 February 2024: FOR STUDENTS ONLY - Grade 10 students are joining Grade 11/12 classes to get a better idea of the DP subjects that we offer. Students will be able to experience part of a DP lesson for several subjects in a subjects group, which will help them to get a better feel of the subjects and make a more informed decision. Students will need to preselect which classes they are planning to join by filling out this form by 08 February 2024.
- 21 February 2024: FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS - Grade 10 Option Fair (Most important date) - from 8:15 am - 9:35 am in Level 6 MPR. During this fair students and parents get the chance to talk to all the DP/CP Subject teachers and ask questions about the subject and ask for advice. I like to see all the parents on that day. Parents, please let me know if you can attend by filling out this quick form.
- 22 February - 28 February 2024: STUDENTS AND PARENTS TOGETHER - Students will discuss their options and complete a second option form to indicate what pathway and subjects they select. Please note that the result of this option form is used to decide which courses are offered and which are not (depending on student numbers). It is also used to make next year's timetable. So students can change their subjects later on, but only if the subject is offered and the timetable permits the change.
To help you in this transition process please see this transition booklet as a reference guide.
Worth a Read
Canada to cut new international student visas by a third
Unifrog Stuff:
Unifrog Parent Access - From the What's Next? session last Wednesday, a couple of parents asked for the Unifrog Parent Access. If you would like to have a parent account on Unifrog, please follow the steps below:
- Go to www.unifrog.org/code
- On the right side of the page look for the grey box that says "Been given a Sign-up Code" - click on that
- The Sign-up Code is IGBIS_parent
- Then complete the remaining information
- Accept the Terms and Agreements
- Choose if you want to sign up to receive the Parent Newsletter (I suggest you do, it is always got good stuff). If you do select yes, you will then indicate the grade level(s) of your student(s)
- You are in!
Info, Opportunities, & Resources
Update about Imperial Admissions tests for 2025-entry
We are pleased to let you know about our new partnership with the University of Cambridge which we hope will improve the experience for your students who may be applying to one or both of our institutions from 2025 entry. Together, we are working with global assessments leader, Pearson VUE, on the delivery of two computer-based admissions tests for many of our most competitive undergraduate courses.
About the tests
New for 2025 entry: Our admissions tests will be used for selection to the following Imperial courses, allowing for fairer comparison of students from all educational backgrounds:
- Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) for BSc in Economics, Finance and Data Science course and our Computing courses.
- Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) – for courses in the Department of Physics and courses in the following engineering departments: Aeronautics, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Design Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.
Worldwide test centres: The multiple-choice, computer-based assessments will be available within Pearson VUE's global network of test centres in more than 5,500 locations in over 180 countries.
Costs: Applicants will be required to pay an administration charge to take the tests of £130.
Transparent selection process: We will publish guidelines on our undergraduate course pages from February 2024 about how each department will incorporate the test into their decision-making.
Support to prepare: Practice resources to support students in their preparation for the tests will be available in spring 2024.
Choice of test dates: Pearson VUE will run two test sittings for 2025 entry to reflect the two main UCAS deadlines. Confirmation of registration deadlines for the tests will follow. Students will be able to book a time slot in one of the following test sittings:
15 October – 17 October 2024, or 07 – 09 January 2025
Other admissions tests: Other admissions tests you should be aware of include:
- University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) for MBBS Medicine from 2025 entry. This will replace BMAT.
- Maths Admissions Test (MAT) for Mathematics.
See our Study website for details of the tests that apply for 2024 and 2025 entry.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to working with you to ensure that your students are well-informed and well-prepared for these changes to our selection process for 2025 entry and beyond.
Syracuse University Pre-College Programmes
Greetings from Syracuse! For 64 years, Syracuse University has been providing rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors with the opportunity to explore potential majors and careers in its renowned pre-college programs.
In Summer College, your high school students can choose from over 100 college-level courses offered on campus, online or in a hybrid format. As a Summer College student, they will:
- Build their resume or portfolio
- Enhance their college applications so they stand out to college admissions
- Test out a major before committing to their undergrad degree
- Earn a Certificate of Completion and a Syracuse University credit or noncredit transcript
The scholarship deadline is 01 March 2024, and the final application deadline is May 1, 2024. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and courses fill quickly, so please encourage your students to apply soon!
“Exploring Life in Campus” Workshop at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
We are excited to invite your students to participate in the "Exploring Life in Campus" workshop, organised in collaboration with MAD Movement (https://madmovement.asia/). This hands-on simulation, scheduled for Saturday, 24 February 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, is designed to provide valuable insights into university life, covering aspects such as course selection, scholarship applications, and time management.
The event is entirely free for participating students.
RSVP and confirm attendance by 15 February 2024 through here.
For any inquiries, please contact me at xianti.tan@hw.ac.uk or +6012 359 7199.
UC Irvine Summer Programmes
Let's kick off 2024 with an update on UC Irvine's summer programmes! This is an invaluable opportunity for your students to get a head start on their college experience. They can immerse themselves in campus life, explore academic interests through hands-on projects and research, and develop new skills in a community that fosters innovation and creativity.
Programmes With Housing
UCI's Gifted and Talented Institute (UCI x GATI):
This is an exciting opportunity for 8th - 12th graders to apply! Work in cutting-edge labs, experience advanced techniques and be mentored by top field experts and faculty. Students can apply now to one of the following research discipline programmes:
- BEAM — Biology, Engineering, AI & Medicine (residential & online)
- GSET — Game Science & Entertainment Tech (residential)
UCI COSMOS:
The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) at UC Irvine offers a 4-week summer program for talented high school students, focusing on advanced STEM topics, taught by renowned faculty.
Summer Tech Camps:
Experience a summer of tech and fun at UC Irvine with iD Tech Camps! From coding and game development to robotics, this program offers day and overnight options for students aged 7-17.
Daytime Programmes
UCI School of Medicine:
- UCI MedAcademy
UCI MedAcademy's five-day programme is designed to introduce students to the medical field and healthcare careers. Students will gain hands-on experience with basic medical procedures like suturing and ultrasound, and also receive insights into the life of a medical student.
- Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE)
Engage in the surgery simulation lab and learn about the ins and outs of medical careers from healthcare professionals. Learn more.
Summer Surgery Programme:
Students gain exclusive access to observe live surgeries and work on medical innovation projects through the Summer Surgery Program. Some hands-on workshops include CPR training, anatomy dissection courses, and classes on various surgical skills, providing a comprehensive insight into the life of a surgeon.
Investments, Financial Planning and You Summer Programme:
Master stock, bond, mutual fund, and ETF analysis at Paul Merage School of Business Investments, Financial Planning and You Summer Programme. Students will learn portfolio creation, and back testing, along with gaining expert financial insights!
ICS Summer Academy:
Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences invites your students to explore new cutting-edge areas of ICS by enrolling in courses like Data Analytics, AI & Machine Learning, Cryptography & Security, and Software Engineering, all taught by distinguished UCI faculty. Explore more and apply today at ICS Summer Academy.
UCI Chemistry Academy:
We make chemistry fun! UCI Chemistry Academy is packed with fascinating topics like environmental chemistry, global warming/climate change, forensic science, and the chemistry behind beauty products. Join us for this unique experience of learning from experts and industry leaders in state-of-the-art chemistry laboratories at UCI.
International Summer Programme:
The 2- to 8-week immersive academic experience offers international students the opportunity to take courses in fields like computer science, engineering, and business, with project-based learning and expert faculty instruction. For more details, please visit the UCI International Summer Program website.
UCI Writing Project:
Our certified and credentialed instructors provide high-quality instruction using research-based best practices to support the development of young readers, writers, mathematicians, and scientists. 2024 Application opens in March - Learn more.
Online Programmes
CardioStart High School Summer Programme:
Experience the world of cells and tissue biology beyond the textbook through hands-on benchtop and highly-values research skills. Students will learn how to design and conduct experiments, collect and analyse data, and maintain laboratory records. Learn more.
Summer Online Research Programme:
Online Research Programme at UCI School of Medicine is a three-week, mentor-led experience offering high school students a closer look into research methods in biomedical research.
Sustainable Futures: Degrees in sustainability at Westminster
Greetings from Westminster!
We have a webinar on 21 February 2024 that may be of interest to your students interested in learning more about sustainability:
Cornell summer programmes for your students
The Cornell University Precollege Studies Programme offers rigorous online courses taught by top Cornell faculty.
As one of the nation's longest-running and most highly regarded precollege academic programs, it gives motivated students the chance to
- Get a head start on their college journey while earning 3 to 12 credits
- Build college study skills during engaging Ivy League classes
- Prep for college applications with one-on-one admissions counselling
- Enhance their college applications with an impressive Cornell transcript
- Have fun connecting with diverse students from around the world
Students choose from dozens of three- and six-week online undergraduate Cornell courses in Arts and Architecture, Business and Hotel Management, Health and Humanities, International Relations, Psychology, Science and Technology, Sustainability, Veterinary Medicine, and more! More courses will be added in the coming months.
Courses are offered between 03 June and 06 August 2024. Limited financial aid is available.
The application is open now! We encourage students to apply as soon as possible because most of our courses fill before the deadline.
Please contact us if you have questions. We hope your students can join us online at Cornell this summer!
Why OHIO Wednesdays: International Webinars
Why OHIO Wednesdays is a webinar series specifically designed for international students. In these webinars, attendees have the chance to learn from and connect with the faculty, staff and students that make up the OHIO community. This spring we are taking a deeper dive into some of the most popular topics admitted students inquire about. Please encourage your students to join us for any of these upcoming webinars:
- Ask Us Anything! Student Life
21 February 2024 at 3:00 pm Eastern Time- Prospective students can talk with Caitlyn and current international students about the 550+ student organisations that we have on campus and how getting involved makes the college experience uniquely personalised!
- Ask Us Anything! Academics
06 March 2024 at 7:00 am Eastern Time- Prospective students can meet with country manager, Prathamesh Paingankar, and current international students about the 250+ academic programs OHIO offers, honours opportunities and classroom experiences. Students will learn about what to expect in the classroom once on campus and how they are academically supported along the way.
- Ask Us Anything! Experience OHIO
20 March 2024 at 3:00 pm Eastern Time- Prospective students will learn from Caitlyn and current international students what the Ohio University experience is all about — from the academics to the extracurriculars! They will discover the OHIO experience, life in Athens, Ohio, and all the opportunities there are to explore as an Ohio University Bobcat!
(Scroll down for more news, info and resources!)
Bocconi Summer School for High School Students 2023: Applications now open
More information and application HERE.
(Scroll down for more news, info and resources!)
From the College Essay Guy: February Resources
9th-graders
- College App & Admissions Timeline: These resources and calendar will help you stay on track.
- Values Exercise (video): Spend some time thinking about your core values with this simple exercise. Your answers may help drive how you spend this upcoming summer.
10th-graders
- Virtual college fairs: There are many opportunities to attend college fairs from home, including sessions that focus on STEM programmes and the visual and performing arts. These easy-to-attend virtual events can be a great window into what college is all about.
- YouScience aptitudes test: If you have not already, take this online assessment, which uses a combination of personality, interest, and aptitudes testing to help you explore careers that might be a good fit. Then see if you can connect with someone working in the field for an informational interview or job shadowing opportunity.
- Identify a summer program: Browse through options for day programmes, residential programmes, and online options that match an interest you might like to pursue.
11th-graders
- Virtual college fairs: There are many opportunities to attend college fairs from home, including sessions that focus on STEM programs and the visual and performing arts. These easy-to-attend virtual events can be a great window into what college is all about.
- Start looking out for fly-in program opportunities: These subsidised travel programs offer overnight campus visits for populations traditionally underrepresented in higher education.
- QuestBridge College Prep Scholars: See if you qualify to apply for this top-notch college admission support programme.
- Pre-work for your teacher recommendations: Take a look at this form and imagine how your teacher(s) might fill it out. What are your strengths/areas for improvement? What words will come to their mind when they think of you? You’ll request teacher recs in May, so this is a good time to start thinking about these important pieces of the college application process.
- 5 Ways to Spend Your High School Summer: Think about your summer in the context of how your choices can help you to lead a happier life (really!).
12th-graders
- Senioritis: This is not the time to slack off. Colleges will see your final transcript this summer, and they do have the right to rescind (i.e., take back) their offer of admission if your spring grades drop significantly (gulp)
- Admitted student events: If possible, attend in-person and virtual events for admitted students to get your questions answered and help inform your decision-making process.
- Scholarships: Search for possible fits based on your academic interests, gender, religion, and more.
Career of the Week: Geoarchaeologist
Ever imagined combining your love for history and earth sciences? Step into the world of Geoarchaeology, a fascinating and lesser-known career!
Overview:
Geoarchaeologists are like time-travelling detectives, unravelling the mysteries of the past through the study of landscapes, sediments, and archaeological sites. They bridge the gap between geology and archaeology, providing valuable insights into ancient civilisations.
Skills Needed:
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Geological and environmental knowledge
- Understanding of excavation techniques
- Data interpretation and mapping skills
Universities Offering Related Programmes:
- Flinders University (Australia): Bachelor of Archaeology (Geoarchaeology)
- University of Southampton (UK): MSc Geoarchaeology
- University of Tsukuba (Japan): Geoarchaeology Research Programme
Why Geoarchaeology?
- Uncover hidden stories of ancient civilisations
- Contribute to cultural heritage preservation
- Dynamic fieldwork opportunities worldwide
University of the Week: University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), United Arab Emirates
Embark on a unique educational journey at the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)!
University Overview:
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, UOWD is a diverse and dynamic institution that brings the world-class education of Australia to the Middle East. Despite being lesser known globally, it stands out for its commitment to innovation, multiculturalism, and academic excellence.
Key Features:
- International Campus: Experience a global learning environment with students from over 100 nationalities, fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Engage in research initiatives across various disciplines, from business and engineering to health sciences.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from strong ties with industry leaders, providing students with real-world insights and networking opportunities.
Why UOWD?
- Internationally recognised degrees with an Australian education framework
- Opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and industry placements
- State-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus life in the heart of Dubai
Notable Programmes:
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Master of International Business
- Bachelor of Computer Science
And last but not least -
We are still looking for a forever home for Milo.
If you are interested in adopting, please reach out to Amanda (amanda.lopez@igbis.edu.my)
If you cannot adopt, please share.
Popular Resources and FAQs
- Counselling Website
- 2023-2024 Future Planning Handbook
- Class of 2024 Future Planning Timelines
- 2023-2024 Anticipated Grades Process
- Unifrog
Questions, Support, and Help
Amanda Lopez
Grades 9 - 12 Universities Counselling & Social/Personal Counselling
To schedule an appointment -
- Parents - https://calendly.com/lopez-igbis/parent-community-meeting
Students - https://bit.ly/IGBHSCounselor
Email - amanda.lopez@igbis.edu.my
Follow Us on Instagram, Facebook and our In-house Counselling Website
It’s about time we joined Social Media, so please follow us!
The IGBIS Counselling Team is now on social media and we will highlight all things counselling, which includes future planning information, resources, and events coverage.
Follow us on Instagram and/or Facebook - @igbiscounselling and on our in-house Google webpage.
