– The Pianist Panther
“Peer Helpers make ISKL a more inclusive place, and it’s always nice to know that you made someone’s day easier, which I strive to do even after not being a Peer Helper anymore.”
Grade 9 student Aurora W., originally from Inner Mongolia in China, has been at ISKL since she was five years old. She started playing the piano when she was three, enjoys drawing, and used to be a Peer Helper in Middle School.
Here is Aurora’s story:
Tell us more about yourself?
My family is from Inner Mongolia, China, but I was born in Tianjin, where I lived until age 5. I love music (assuming I’m not stressed about exams or a recital) and have been playing the piano since I was 3.
When did you come to Malaysia, and in which grade did you join ISKL?
I came to Malaysia and joined ISKL when I was five, near the end of my Prep Senior year.
Can you tell us more about your other hobbies and interests?
I love playing the piano and drawing with colored pencils, charcoal, and graphite.
How has being a Peer Helper helped you toward becoming a leader?
Being a Peer Helper has helped me be more comfortable when working and interacting with people, which is something I still need to improve because I prefer working alone. Additionally, being part of the Peer Helpers team has taught me that it’s essential to be on the same page as everyone to accomplish a common goal.
I’m not a Peer Helper anymore, but I still try to do my part in supporting everyone. Peer Helpers make ISKL a more inclusive place, and it’s always nice to know that you made someone’s day easier, which I strive to do even after not being a Peer Helper anymore.
Most memorable moment at ISKL?
There are too many to count! Probably the Bangkok International Band Festival, my first school trip outside of Malaysia, and my favorite trip so far.
I’m looking forward to making more memories during the IASAS trip in a few months.
Any plans for after you graduate from ISKL – what would you like to do?
I want to pursue higher education, perhaps somewhere in Europe or the US.
Do you have any thoughts on your career pathway?
I’m interested in math and music, but I’m still deciding.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
It would be nice to remain in an international community and become a teacher, which I’m passionate about.
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
I’m always inspired by music, whether it’s the lyrics or a piece I’m working on. Hearing others’ renditions inspires me to keep practicing even when frustrated or reduced to tears (it happens much more than you’d expect).
What does “Know yourself, care for all and create a better world,” mean to you?
It means understanding what you need to be safe, successful, happy, growing, and caring enough to impact the world.
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.
