How did you feel when you finally received your IB Diploma results?
I was really satisfied with my overall IB Diploma results. I was especially happy when I found out that I got a 7 in a subject that I was really worried about. It was well worth the trouble of studying and learning desperately for that subject before the exam.
However, it was also regrettable that I couldn’t get a better result in EE, which I spent hours collecting and analysing primary data for. However, I learned about the essence of research and my future career path during the process of writing my extended essay. I also realised that I have something to improve on during my undergraduate programme.
What were your biggest achievements during your time at the school?
If I had to choose one single biggest achievement during my time at the school, I would pick my participation in the F1 in Schools World Finals. With a year-long preparation period, Doppler Racing (BIS HCMC F1 in Schools team) were able to participate in the F1 in Schools World Finals held in Texas, USA. For this competition, I had the unique experience of self-learning CAD, CFD and CAM programs as well as handling 3D printers, CNC routers, and laser cutters.
During the competition, I was able to use the CAD skills that I self-taught to win second place in the Autodesk Fusion 360 challenge and receive a 3D printer as a prize (I believe this is still in BIS HCMC). I was also selected as one of only nine students to be admitted to the Randstad Williams Engineering Academy, run by the Williams F1 team.
Tell us more about the Randstad Williams Engineering Academy…
During the F1 in Schools World Finals, out of over 100 participants in the competition, 25 students were selected to go through to the group interview for admission into the Randstad Williams Engineering Academy. During this stage, we made stable bridges and answered F1-related engineering questions from real engineers and HR staff of the Williams F1 team.
9 students were selected to be admitted to the Academy which was announced during the award ceremony at the last day of the competition. When the names were called out, I was really nervous. I was actually the last one to be called and the sensation was unreal!
This programme consists of F1 specific engineering courses for four years, mentored by current F1 engineers in the Williams F1 team. This is a competitive scheme where each year, one or two students are dropped from the program. Just last month I received great news that I will be moving up to the second year in this academy program. At the end of four years, students who still remain on the course are offered an internship opportunity in the team.
What would you say to your teachers who supported you throughout your education at BIS HCMC?
During my 7 years at BIS HCMC, I met great teachers who have inspired me in many different ways. Whether that was by introducing the depths of the subject they taught or by guiding and offering advice while I wrote EEs or designing F1 cars.
I will always be grateful to my teachers who have inspired me throughout my life at BIS HCMC as they helped me shape my own self-identity.