Experiencing International Business in Spain
For two weeks over the summer Payten, Grade 12, got a taste of the business program at IE University in Madrid as part of their Pre-Track Business Summer Program. “I was interested in getting into business after taking the course at SJS, and the Italy trip last year,” explains Payten. The students enjoyed lectures during the day from the director of the program (pictured with Payten) and faculty, while working toward a group capstone project to pitch how to improve major international brands such as Instagram, Zara and Starbucks.
“There were around 150 of us, from all around the world, like Abu Dhabi, Brazil, Romania, England, Turkey—it was really international,” says Payten, who enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with so many different people. When not studying, the students enjoyed excursions around Madrid, visiting a beautiful lakefront and nearby Segovia. The opportunity to experience a taste of university, as well as Spain and the many activities that came with the program, made for a memorable summer for Peytan. “I’ve never done anything like this before and it was genuinely the best two weeks of my life.”
Math Success on an International Stage
Samuel, Grade 4, achieved Honour Roll recognition by earning an aggregate score of 80% in the Spirit of Math Contest.
The Spirit of Math contest is an international program featuring tests and contests throughout the year alongside 19,000 students from 30 countries.
Based on his Honour Roll accomplishment, Samuel was invited to represent Team Canada at the international Spirit of Math Contest Global Round in Toronto, where he earned a silver medal in the individual competition. His parents are so proud of his hard work and dedication, and so are we. Way to go Samuel!
Living it Up in London
Grade 12 student Anna took a week abroad in London, England as part of the King’s College Pre-university Summer School program. She focused on the political science track, taking part in a mixture of lectures and discussions, and concluding the week with a final essay. “The instructor would assign us a side of an argument to defend, and I think that really helped me deepen my understanding of the content,” Anna explained as she reflected on her experience. The best part? Meeting so many international students across the summer school programs, including students from Indonesia, Egypt, Slovakia, Monaco and Brazil to name a few.
When not studying, the students had the choice between free time and organized excursions—one such trip included riding the London Eye for a full view of the city. “It really helped me get out of that North American bubble. It was also my first time in London, and it was a great experience to be in the city and surrounded by so many interesting, international classmates.” Thank you for sharing your experience Anna!
