Monisha Arora

ISWA offers two education pathways to their senior students, which pathway did you take?

I took Advanced Placement as it was the best choice for my preferred learning style.

Describe your experience studying at ISWA.

I went to ISWA from Year 4 to Year 12 and it provided me with a community in which I felt at home. ISWA was always a safe space for my peers and me where we could express our authentic selves. The teachers made sure I always thrived within the classroom and gave up their own lunchtimes or recesses for extra help when needed. Not only did the staff look out for my educational needs but also offered support whenever needed. The ISWA community was always one that thrived on kindness and acceptance. I learnt about so many different cultures, which has allowed me to become the open-minded person I am today.

The small school size is amazing because no student goes unnoticed. It’s almost as we received personal tuition, which allowed me to do so well in my studies. The teachers at ISWA really make sure their students thrive and with small numbers, this is even better achieved. Every student is awarded an equal opportunity to accomplish their best academically, which is reflected in the school’s results, such as NAPLAN ranking.

ISWA helps students develop international mindedness, preparing them to work anywhere in the world. Do you believe you left ISWA with a global education that has prepared you to work internationally?

I do. Being around so many different cultures, beliefs and values all the time really allows students to become more open-minded. I believe that ISWA students are more likely to approach people and the world in a non-judgemental and accepting way, which allows them to succeed in international settings. This is amazing as employers want someone who understands cultural diversity and welcomes new people and situations with excitement.

How do you believe ISWA’s culture shaped your school experience?

It made it easier to be myself. I didn’t have to pretend or change who I was to be accepted and appreciated. It made coming to school easy and therefore allowed me to achieve my potential.

How do you think studying in a welcoming, close-knit community like ISWA compares to other schools?

ISWA’s small, welcoming, close-knit community allows students to feel as they are individuals. All the members of the staff know us by name, and this makes students feel less alienated. We know that people outside our close friend group or family care, which allows us to feel appreciated and part of something bigger. I feel as though students feel safer and more accepted within this environment and that allows for greater personal growth.

What are the benefits of an international education to students at school today?

An international education opens students’ eyes to all the opportunities they have. It allows for students to see and understand that the world is their oyster and that they can go anywhere to pursue their passions and dreams, that they are not limited. It allows for students to make friends with people all over the world which grows their cultural understanding and therefore personal character.

Tell us about what you’re doing now. Have you had any memorable achievements since leaving ISWA?

Currently, I’m starting my first semester at the University of Western Australia as a Direct Entry Dentistry student. I think my most memorable achievement was getting into such a competitive course at a really highly regarded university. I’m excited to find out all about university life and start my career journey.

If you had to describe your experience at ISWA in ten words or less, what would you say?

A community bursting with cultural diversity committed to global education.