Arya Veer Manhas

I’m currently still in Tokyo and will move to Australia next month. I got accepted into the University of New South Wales (World rank 19th) into the course of Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) for 4 years. My course commences on 12th February. The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is renowned for its commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation in the field of biotechnology. The Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) program at UNSW is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of biotechnology, with a strong emphasis on research. I am excited about the prospect of engaging with world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities at UNSW, which I believe will significantly contribute to my academic and professional growth.

My most memorable moments were hosting the autumn fair, participating in sports day, and just generally attending classes. Due to the student-to-teacher ratio being very low, I got to experience a sense of closeness with the teachers, and my 4 years in the school were enjoyable throughout. The Autumn Fair was a highlight for me as it allowed us to showcase our creativity and organizational skills. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring the school community together and foster a sense of camaraderie. Sports day was another unforgettable experience, where the spirit of competition and teamwork prevailed. The close bond with teachers significantly enriched my learning experience, fostering an environment of mentorship and support.

I participated in judo for about a year and was part of the volleyball team. Along with that, I engaged in athletics-related activities for our sports day and various other sports, including basketball, dodgeball, etc., in our Physical Education classes. I also received the Future Leaders Scholarship due to my academic performance. Participating in judo and being a part of the volleyball team not only enhanced my physical fitness but also taught me valuable lessons in discipline and teamwork. The diverse sports activities, including basketball and dodgeball, contributed to a holistic development. Receiving the Future Leaders Scholarship was a great honor and motivated me to continue striving for excellence.

The last time on campus was in August when Mr. Hans conducted a chemistry lab experiment with me to help me prepare for the chemistry AS level I undertook myself this year, after graduating. I would have loved to conduct the session; however, my course is commencing soon, and I have to engage in the hectic process of visa application, medical, packing, etc. Therefore, I do not think I would be able to conduct it. I appreciate the opportunity to engage with Mr. Hans during my last visit. While I regret not being able to conduct a class due to upcoming commitments, I am grateful for the support and guidance received from the teachers, which has undoubtedly contributed to my academic achievements.

Advice I would give is we have the privilege to be in such a good school and study the Cambridge curriculum. Our parents pay a large sum of fees, and we should try our best for a good future and to shine the school’s and our parents’ name. We should also maintain a good balance between studies and other extracurriculars, including sports, leadership, volunteering, etc. Additionally, I would advise current UIA students to explore their passions and interests actively. Engaging in extracurricular activities not only fosters personal growth but also provides a well-rounded education. Take advantage of the resources and support available, seek guidance from teachers, and always strive for continuous improvement. Building a strong foundation in both academic and non-academic pursuits will undoubtedly contribute to future success.