“I knew that my experience at ISKL would open up countless doors for me and mold me into a better person, teaching me essential values and skills I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Malaysian student Pretyba is one of ISKL’s inaugural four-year Pathways scholars who joined in August. Pretyba aspires to run a sustainable business, positively impact the world, and make it a better place for all.
Here is Pretyba’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I’m a born-and-raised Malaysian! I live in Puchong, along with my parents and younger brother.
Before joining ISKL, I attended SMK Pusat Bandar Puchong 1, a Malaysian public school.
What encouraged you to join ISKL as a Pathways scholar?
Getting into ISKL has been priceless. The abundance of opportunities available at one of the best schools in Malaysia, if not the best, is a significant factor in why I decided to join. I knew that my experience at ISKL would open up countless doors for me and mold me into a better person, teaching me essential values and skills I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
There was no way I would miss this opportunity.
How has the process of transition to ISKL been for you?
It couldn’t have been better. Honestly, I was not expecting to be so taken care of here. Everyone was so kind, patient, and willing to help. The Peer Helpers, teachers, and staff members played a crucial role in helping me adjust and feel comfortable. There was never a second when I felt left out, nor did I ever get anxious.
I was so excited about the first day of school that I could barely sleep the night before. However, during orientation day all my anxiety and worries completely vanished. I had so much fun there, meeting and talking to many teachers and students.
You know a school is good when its students, especially new ones, aren’t nervous or anxious but are genuinely excited to go to school.
What are your future aspirations after you graduate from ISKL?
I plan to further my studies abroad, although I haven’t decided what to major in.
Can you tell us about your hobbies and interests?
My interests range from listening to music, reading books, watching movies, writing, watching TED Talks, reading about history, the news, and much more!
Do you participate in any co-curricular activities at ISKL?
I have joined five – you can’t possibly blame me, though! If I could, I’d probably be in around 15 or 20. There are so many that I would love to be a part of, and I want to take full advantage of the opportunities available here!
Currently, I’m in Tri M, ASL, CARE, Debate, and Kids 4 Kids.
With this in mind, what are your thoughts on your career pathway?
I’m not entirely sure if this is precisely what I’ll do in the future, seeing as life can take unexpected turns at any given moment – the best example is this scholarship right here! But as of now, the rough draft for the story I’m writing entails me running a sustainable business (it’s important to me that it is sustainable) and an NGO. My main goal in life is to leave as much of a positive impact on this world as I can. Helping people in need, righting the wrongs of man, seeking to make positive changes, and inspiring people to be the best version of themselves are things I hope to be able to achieve in the future.
I also hope to delve into the world of Arts. Maybe music, film, or perhaps both? Or even maybe run a school? It’s crossed my mind twice before, so I won’t completely rule that out. All in all, my options are open.
What are personal hopes and dreams for the future?
I hope that through the effort and hard work I put in now, I will be able to get closer to achieving my dreams and goals of creating a better world for everybody, no matter their identity – who they are, where they’re from, their race, religion, gender, etc.
Who or what inspires and influences you?
Everyone around me! From people I’ve known my entire life to those I’ve exchanged salutations or seen from behind a screen. Be it people I disagree with, despise, adore or admire. The varying circumstances surrounding these people, including myself, inspire me and influence how I set my goals and perceive life.
What is your most memorable moment at ISKL?
There are so many to choose from! Every single day at school has been eventful. Still, if I had to pick one, it’d be singing in the Choir room every alternate day with the rest of my classmates, accompanied by Mrs. Jaymin Baird’s ever-so-enthusiastic directing. The energy in the room is always at its peak with its positive vibes surrounding the second you set foot in that room.
Thank you, Mrs. Baird, for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and fun musical environment in the Choir room!
What does the ISKL vision: know yourself, care for all, and create a better world mean to you?
To me, it means to find yourself – to know who you are, what makes your heart beat, what you’re capable of, and more. It means using your self-awareness to better help the people around you and change the world for the better, no matter how small.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always has an anecdote to tell, loves to share some insights into their passions and interests, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.
