BIS Abu Dhabi Graduate Interview

Atharva became part of the BIS Abu Dhabi family in September 2019, starting in Year 8. Over the past five years, he has made the most of his time both academically and beyond the classroom, recently graduating from the IB Diploma Programme with pride.

Reflecting on results day, he shared, “I was overjoyed when I got my results. My parents were very proud. I hope my teachers are proud as well, since they have always believed in me from the beginning.” His success is not only a testament to his dedication, but also to the strong relationships he built with the BIS Abu Dhabi community.

This autumn, he will begin his university journey at Erasmus University Rotterdam, one of Europe’s top institutions for corporate finance and banking. He will be studying a double Bachelor’s degree in Econometrics and Economics, a field that combines his passions: “I want to study this due to my love for mathematics and economics, which has been fueled and cultivated by HL Math and Economics in the IB programme over the past two years.”

He is excited to experience student life in Rotterdam, especially the vibrant city culture and nightlife for which it is renowned.

Looking back on his IB experience, he credits the programme with preparing him well for university. “The IAs (Internal Assessments) and Extended Essay helped me publish research projects in the areas I wanted to study at university, which really strengthened my application. Furthermore, HL Math, one of the most challenging subjects, helped me grow my mathematical ability and excel in all the standard aptitude tests required for university.”

His future goals are as ambitious as they are inspiring. He dreams of working in finance as an investment banker at a top global bank, with long-term aspirations to manage his own hedge fund.

Throughout his time at BIS Abu Dhabi, he actively contributed to the school community. In Year 13, he helped re-instate the Economics Journal Club and published an article on optimum tax rates in the first volume. He also served as a student representative for his form class throughout Years 12 and 13, playing a key role in discussions that led to changes in the IB dress code. His commitment to service was evident in his volunteer work with Seeway Tanzania in Year 11, an experience he found both meaningful and eye-opening.

When asked what he’ll miss most about BIS Abu Dhabi, he replied, “The community. I’ve built lifelong relationships and bonds at this school. The sense of belonging has always been strong, with every teacher giving their all to us, and every student in our year group treating each other like family.”

Congratulations, Atharva! Your passion for economics and finance, combined with your drive and leadership, will no doubt take you far. We are proud to have been part of your journey and can’t wait to see what you accomplish at Erasmus University and beyond.