Student feature – students from the Class of 2021 share their experiences of studying at SISHK and IBDP.
Vanessa Lam – Class of 2021, IBDP

Q. How long have you been studying at SISHK?
I have been studying here since primary 2.
Q. What is your advice for students who want to join or currently studying in the IBDP?
Take subjects that you enjoy, not subjects that you think would get you the best grades, since you need to study them intensively for the next 2 years.
Q. What was the highlight of your IB journey at the school in the last two years?
I took part in a Hong Kong Science Competition with a peer, where we innovated a drug delivery system using chemistry knowledge outside of the classroom.
Q. What is your studying strategy?
For more content heavy subjects, I like writing concise notes to summaries my knowledge, sometimes in a large spreadsheet format to be more organized. Otherwise, I also do a lot of past papers to sharpen my time management while doing questions.
Q. What are some of the mistakes that you have made that you would not make again?
I procrastinated on projects and assignments which gave me a lot of unnecessary stress later on.
Q. How did the teachers support you during the IB programme?
Our mentors gave us emotional support when we feel overwhelmed with work, and our subject teachers spend time outside of school hours to explain problems that we may have. Overall, it is a very forgiving and supportive environment to study in.
Q. How would you describe the student life and student leadership opportunities in SISHK?
As there are relatively little students, we are all very close and tight-knit. In terms of student leadership, the school definitely encourages us to take on preliminary leadership positions from a very young age, and develops these skills as we grow.

Q. Can you share more about your university admissions experience?
I applied through early UCAS, so the university counselling team really helped me to polish and review my application. They also conducted mock interviews and gave very useful advice whenever I asked for their help.
Q. What is the one thing that you will miss after leaving SISHK?
I will miss the bond with my friends, as we experienced a lot in the past few years of studying together.
Q. What are you planning to study after IB?
I am planning to study engineering, as it gives me knowledge to solve society’s urgent problems, such as climate change.
Q. What is one part of the school that you would like to see preserved and not changed?
Q. Any last words of advice for your juniors?
Work hard, play hard, but take care of your physical and mental health.
Related links
May 2021 Session of International Baccalaureate Diploma Results