Taking the IB Program is like getting a new pari of glasses – suddenly, I had a completely new perspective of the world. In a time when the way society works is constantly changing, IB recognizes that it’s not enough to give knowledge; discoveries are made on a daily basis, and information can be updated or disregarded at a drop of a hat. So, it aims to give us something better: The inquisitive mindset it takes to thrive in an ever-evolving culture.

The moment we step through the doors, we are urged to push ourselves to become better than we were before. These challeges are not for the faint-hearted (or lazy-minded). Chances to create and work on projects pop up all year. So far in my IB life, my classmates and I have made a haunted house and donated its proceeds to charity; volunteered at Red Cross; regularly helped at an orphanage; attened Model United Nations and other leadership conferences; attended several races; started a newspaper; and participated in a study trip to London. This was on top of challenging coursework, assessments, and CAS (not to mention that 4,000 word essay that lurks at the back of everyone’s minds).

The end–results are life-long learners who are passionate about what they choose to do, and have the skills to be great at it. They teach us to keep asking questions, and not to be satisfied with the status quo. The IB Program does not want to make students who are able to perceive and cope with change – they want to endorse students who can prosper in change, to lead it and direc it for the better. What we do is not easy; a quick glance at the IB website can tell you that. But in my personal opinion, the amazing variety of experiences I’ve had, as well as how they increased my efficacy and confidence makes it worth it.

– Clarice Sanchez Meneses