Shanghai Community International School

The rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) programme at Shanghai Community International School (SCIS) molds students like Caryne Lam (SCIS Hongqiao Class of 2023) into resilient and high-achieving individuals. Its multifaceted and demanding curriculum, coupled with dedicated support, empowers students to excel academically. As demonstrated by Caryne's impressive 43 out of 45 score on her final IB exams, it also equips them to emerge as well-rounded individuals ready to tackle the complexities of higher education and beyond.

We got a second to talk to Caryne herself about her time at SCIS, her triumphs and tribulations, and her words of wisdom in our latest Once, Always featured interview.  

 

Hi Caryne! Tell us more about yourself.

I was born in Malaysia and have been in Shanghai since I was a year old. I came to SCIS in tenth grade because my previous school did not have a high school department, and because my brother studied here. My parents often brought me to SCIS's International Food Fairs (IFF) when I was still in my previous school, and I really enjoyed the community activities and the school’s environment.  

 

We heard you scored 43/45 in the IBDP! How did you achieve this outstanding accomplishment?  

I'm grateful to my teachers, friends, and family for their support and resources. My main challenge was staying focused amidst the demands of the IB programme, which often led to procrastination. To address this, I learned the value of thorough research and organization, which not only improved my work but also reduced the need to fill word counts with unnecessary information. 

 

Where are you headed next?

I will attend university in Australia in 2024 to study for a double major in commerce and law. I chose this subject because I wanted to focus my education on the law and its application in different societies and study commerce as it is a very practical course that would provide a more diverse career path.  

 

What are the top three skills you felt you developed during your time at SCIS? 

Before studying at SCIS, my education followed the Chinese education system, which is different than an international school. When I transferred to SCIS, the first skill I developed was knowing how to appropriately research credible information on the internet, organize it, and cite it to prevent plagiarising articles.  

 

Who were some of the teachers or lecturers who provided support and guidance to you during your studies and even contributed to your academic success?  

If I had to choose, I'd pick Mr. Turner as the most friendly, inspiring, and patient teacher. While working on my TOK exhibition and essay, I often struggled with understanding my prompts, resulting in incomplete submissions. However, Mr. Turner consistently offered detailed feedback and patiently guided me through my questions. For instance, when I chose to change my TOK essay prompt and start anew, he supported me by providing feedback and tips during his spare time. His nickname for me, "microbiome," remains a memorable aspect of our interactions. 

 

Were you a part of any sports, student clubs, or initiatives?

I was part of the MUN club in Grade 11, and it was a very intriguing experience as I was introduced to many global events and how different countries would come together to discuss resolutions. Attending this club, I was given the opportunity to participate in a MUN conference held at SAS, where I got to meet students from international schools all over Shanghai and have fruitful debates about different global issues.   

 

What are your top 3 pieces of advice for IBDP students? 

The top 3 pieces of advice would be to manage your time wisely and to meet all IA deadlines. Secondly, make full use of all the online resources that are out there. Thirdly, it is always better to do thorough research and have an outline before you start writing any of your work.  

 

Thank you Caryne for your time and we wish you all the best in your next big adventure!

 

SCIS. Once a Dragon, Always a Dragon.