An interview with alumnus: João Alkamin
When did you graduate from School of Nations? What college do you attend? What is your major?
I graduated in June 2018. I studied for sixteen years at School of the Nations. At the moment, I am majoring in Political Science, but I also intend to major in International Relations next year, which would lead me to a double-major. I go to Seattle University.
Tell us more about your day-to-day life as a college student.
My classes change every three months. I have to readapt and change my routine according to my schedule. In general, I wake up early and go straight to the library to study. I like to read the material in advance and prepare myself as much as I can for my classes. I usually have lunch around 11:30 a.m., leaving more time to study for my afternoon classes. During breaks, I go back to the library or go to my room to study more.
What do you miss most about your time at the School of Nations?
I studied at School of the Nations all my life. I have always had a lot of affinity with the people around me - teachers and friends. I miss the friendships I had with my teachers. It is difficult to have friendships with my professors since I spend only three months with each of them. Also, School of the Nations has always provided me with a very special sense of community.
Do you believe studying at School of the Nations influenced your decision to study abroad?
For sure. Although it is a different academic environment, School of the Nations prepared me well academically and socially. Academically, I believe my AP Capstone classes were important for my success. I cannot put into words how important the AP Seminar and AP Research classes are for college. In addition, Taking Moral Initiative classes also taught me values that many people do not know abroad. Geography, History, and Philosophy taught me logic. Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology taught me about the basic elements of life. All the classes I had at School of the Nations contributed to my college journey.
What advice would you give to our Grade 12 students?
Enjoy the time you have in high school. Enjoy the people and the teachers you have because a lot changes when you get to college. There is nothing else like our School, so enjoy it!