More Than a School: How IGBIS Empowered One Student to Follow Her Dreams to Oxford

Julie always dreamed of studying the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. She was drawn to its flexible and broad range of subjects, which her old school didn’t offer. At IGB International School (IGBIS), she found the perfect balance: a rigorous IB Diploma Programme, a welcoming international community, and the freedom to deeply explore her passions.

The Power of Asking for Help

While Julie is a natural perfectionist, she says her greatest achievement at IGBIS wasn’t academic at all. It was learning to ask for help.

“I used to think that asking for help made you look weak,” she says. “But at IGBIS, I learned that’s not true. The teachers and community showed me that asking for guidance is a key part of the learning process—it just makes you stronger.”

This culture of support and teamwork gave her the confidence to grow both as a student and as a person.

A Tailored Approach to Learning

Julie excelled in math and physics, which led her to pursue Engineering Science. She chose the University of Oxford not just for its global reputation but also for its unique one-on-one tutoring system. This personalized teaching style was something she was already familiar with at IGBIS.

“It really matches how I prefer to learn,” she explains.

At IGBIS, small class sizes, strong teacher mentorship, and inquiry-based learning helped her build critical thinking skills, ask questions, and take ownership of her education. These are the exact skills that are highly valued at Oxford and beyond.

Preparing for Life, Not Just University

Julie credits IGBIS for preparing her for more than just a demanding academic environment. She learned practical skills and resilience, with teachers providing both academic guidance and emotional support. She remembers a specific exercise where students had to design a weekly meal plan on a fictional budget.

“It sounds simple,” she says, “but it really helps you get ready for university life and living on your own.”

This September, Julie is starting her Master of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford. Her advice to younger students is simple: “On the academic side, make sure to consistently review your subjects. But beyond that, don’t forget to enjoy the process.”

What IGBIS Stands For

Julie’s journey reflects not only her own determination but also the core mission of IGBIS: empowering students to embrace challenges, community, and personal growth. At IGBIS, students don’t just get ready for university – they get ready for life.