Alumni Highlight: From IB Diploma to success as a costume designer at Switzerland’s national theatre

This alumni highlight features Anouk Hufschmid Hirschbuehl, from the Class of 2018. 

What year did you graduate from St Andrews, and which diploma programme did you complete?

I graduated in 2018 and completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). 

Where are you now, and what are you doing?

After graduating from STA, I moved to Nottingham to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Design. I then continued my studies in London, earning a PGCE in Primary Education from University College London and a Master of Science in Mental Health and Creative Arts from Queen Mary University of London. Today, I am based in Switzerland, working as a costume designer and assistant at the national theatre, Bühnen Bern.

What was your favourite subject or class at St Andrews?

Art and Languages were my favourites. They gave me the freedom to express myself creatively. 

Were you involved in any clubs, sports, or activities?

I participated in CrossFit and dance, and volunteered whenever a creative was needed for school activities, such as drama productions. It showed me how important it is to seek out different opportunities and activities to be dynamic day to day.

How did STA prepare you for university and your career?

The IB programme was instrumental. It prepared me for the heavy workload and long days at university. The way we learn to think critically and conduct research was very beneficial.

What advice would you give current students?

Laugh a lot! There are so many pathways to take to get to places, and even though it seems like you need to have it fully planned out, you will continue to question everything and explore more of the world and yourself in it. You will find multiple places where you deserve to be and where you belong.
Share a favourite memory from your time at school.

The Year 12 residential trip, especially white-water rafting, was incredible.

What’s something you wish you had known in High School?

That it’s not a competition. You don’t need to beat yourself or others; your journey is your own.