Life After SAS

The class of 2023 Eagles are taking flight! As they soar off to new adventures and challenges, we know that the skills, knowledge, character, and friendships they developed at SAS will help them in their journeys. Looking back on their time at SAS and forward to fresh opportunities, here’s what some of our newest graduates have to say about what comes next.

RICHARD BAE

Computer science studies after National Service

Next Adventure: National Service

Eagle since Kindergarten

I plan on studying at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the fall of 2025, after completing two years of National Service in Singapore. I chose CMU because its School of Computer Science is one of the best in the world. Its renowned professors and impressive connections for internships will allow me to have great experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

In high school, I tried to involve myself in both athletics and service. I was one of the varsity badminton captains in my senior year and had a great time during IASAS in Bangkok. Athletics helped me strengthen my leadership and collaboration skills, which can be hard to learn inside the classroom. I also co-founded the service club Code for All. Its mission is to empower underprivileged children in Singapore through coding, and every week, we went to children's care centers to teach Scratch and Java to young children. It was heartwarming to see the students’ enthusiasm and passion for coding grow over the years.

I think the diversity at SAS is what makes the experience truly unique. SAS has students from many different cultures, and by taking advantage of this, I was able to realize its benefits. Whether collaborating during group projects, sports competitions, or music production, I found that a combination of diverse minds creates the greatest ideas.

My advice to younger students is to work efficiently, not just hard. You can get so much more done when you stay organized, balanced, and collaborative. Also, use your energy wisely on the things that are within your control. Doing well in school is not about trying to overachieve and push yourself beyond your energy limit, it is about how well you distribute your energy on the things that matter. I will greatly miss SAS, my home for 13 years. I had a great time here and as I move forward, I will cherish all the memories and experiences I created with my friends and family.

Rimi Chakravarti

Joining a women’s college in New York City

Next Adventure: Barnard College, Columbia University Eagle

since Third Grade

I’ve chosen to attend Barnard College of Columbia University. As a small women's college within a larger university, Barnard places great emphasis on women’s empowerment and community. I'm leaning towards majoring in computer science and economics; however, I applied to college “undecided” and will officially declare a major at the end of my second year. Barnard’s location on the Upper West Side of Manhattan will let me take advantage of everything New York City has to offer, from amazing food to valuable internships and career opportunities.

At SAS, I've been most inspired by Ms. Mare Stewart's sincerity and her dedication to both creating impactful learning experiences and building up SAS's service culture. I have also loved being part of the art community under Ms. Barbara Harvey's guidance, working with Blue Planet Initiative, and helping to build and document competitive ROVs for the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) Robotics Club.

One of my favorite SAS memories is of my fourth grade class performing a Christmas play for our parents and the class from next door. It was cool that so many people gathered to watch something we made for fun. Overall, the elementary school Christmas celebrations were always the best! Instead of lessons, we'd come to school in our pajamas, gorge on snacks, play games, and then watch a Christmas movie.

I'll miss all the wonderful people at SAS, from my hilarious friends to my supportive and passionate teachers. SAS is special because it helps students fulfill their potential and push themselves to try new things. My advice to younger students is to find out about the many opportunities that can enrich your time at school, but also to do stuff that's purely for fun—go to a sports game and cheer really loud, or shape some clay in the ceramics room, or bang out some tunes in the Jam Room! To rising juniors and seniors, I’d say to keep your priorities clear and to never sell yourself short.

Environmental studies at a liberal arts college

Next Adventure: Barnard College, Columbia University Eagle since First Grade

I have chosen to attend Barnard College next year because I want a liberal arts college that will provide a more focused education, rather than a larger school like a state university. My aunt also attended a women's college, Wellesley, and enjoyed the experience. Barnard offers the best of both worlds, as it is a women's college conjoined with Columbia University, allowing for a coed feel.

My plan to study environmental science stems from my participation in environmental clubs at SAS. My favorite was SEED, which stands for Sustainable Effort for EcoDevelopment. Through this club, I met Ria Nakahara, who now studies environmental science at University of California, Berkeley. Her passion for nature inspired me, and I feel that if I had not joined SEED, met Ria, and participated in environmental activities, I would likely be planning to major in another subject.

The thing I will miss most about SAS is the people. The variety of options at SAS means students are continually meeting new classmates and friends, even from other grades. I'm still close with the seniors I met in AT Computational Physics as a junior or AP Computer Science in my sophomore year! Interim Semester also makes the school unique. My funniest memory of Interim is when we had a karaoke night, and one group chose to sing the 1985 song “Sussudio,” even though only two people actually knew the song!

SAS has many opportunities for students to join clubs, and I recommend joining a variety of activities that seem interesting in ninth and tenth grade, and then focusing on a couple of main activities during the upperclass years. My advice for rising seniors is to start early and apply to a variety of safeties and targets that you feel you will enjoy. Also, reach out to SAS alumni who are attending your schools of interest and ask them questions—they're often happy to help, and their information can be really valuable as they understand where you’re coming from.

Yuzo Lai National Service, dance, and an innovative mindset

Zi Ning Lau

Studying law in a historic city

Rupert Lim Physics, friends, and “Aha!” moments

Sydney Nimerick

Studying flight science to become an airline pilot

Next Adventure:

National

Service

Eagle since Fifth Grade

I am headed to National Service here in Singapore before pursuing my college education! While I haven't yet decided on a specific field of study, I hope that whatever path I choose will enable me to open my eyes to various perspectives, creating intriguing pathways in my life. During my time in NS, I will also be working as a dance instructor for the Lauren Blair Smith Dance Company, as well as pursuing other projects.

SAS has instilled in me the invaluable skill of seeking creativity within seemingly rigid confines. As an ardent dancer and choreographer who also harbors a deep love for STEM and English projects, I found profound inspiration both in the diverse interests in our student body and in the captivating intersectionality of our course options. Dance has allowed me to express my individuality and artistic voice, while my classes and extracurriculars shaped my personal growth.

Above all, SAS has given me an understanding of the transformative power of creation—the indescribable exhilaration that accompanies the generation of work that is truly one's own. Whether manifested through intricate choreography on the stage or as a model roller coaster in a math class, I will forever be grateful for the impact of these experiences within the communities that matter most to me. Looking forward, I aspire to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation, for this is the lasting imprint that SAS has etched upon me.

For future classes, I hope that you explore—explore all the opportunities offered here, and create a narrative you won’t regret. What makes SAS special is that you have an opportunity to build, revise, and polish a chapter of your life and take pride in using that as a stepping stone for the future. As I sit here, reflecting upon my time spent at this school, I can confidently say that I am proud of what I’ve built here, as a member of the graduating class of 2023. Till next time!

Next Adventure: University of Oxford

Eagle since Seventh Grade

Next year, I will study law at the University of Oxford. Though I was primarily interested in Oxford’s wonderful law program and tutorial system, I was also enchanted by the city’s history and charm. My decision to study law stems from my desire to better the lives of the underprivileged and underrepresented, expanding the reach of legal systems and support. I hope opportunities at Oxford will kick-start a career rooted in justice, compassion, fairness, and humanity. Furthermore, I am also incredibly excited to spend time with my older brother, who will enter Oxford’s medical graduate program next year.

The connections I have formed with individuals at SAS have shaped my character, worldview, and experiences in indescribable ways. For instance, Cathy Casey and Tomo Tanabe have infused my high school experience with safety and joy, while Jay Londgren—providing unwavering support and guidance—has become a valued mentor and my chosen family. Overall, whether it is a basketball coach who wears caps indoors or a biology teacher who loves the word “exergonic”, SAS has connected me with teachers who have left indelible impacts on my life.

I will miss the music program at SAS the most. Outside of academics, I spent much of my tim playing the guitar as co-president of the high school jazz band. Many of my favorite memories involve inside jokes with bandmates during late-night rehearsals and backstage banter before jazz gigs. As my home for the past four years, the music program at SAS has fostered lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories.

My advice to younger students is to practice gratitude. SAS students are incredibly privileged, as our school offers countless opportunities and support systems for all students. It is a privilege to attend an institution with such experienced faculty, endless diversity, and extensive resources. With that said, I believe recognizing and expressing gratitude for this environment and the people within it will allow students to be truly present and cherish their high school experience.

Next Adventure: Haverford

College Eagle since Third Grade

I have chosen to attend Haverford College next year because of the close interactions between its professors and students. As an entirely undergraduate institution, Haverford’s classes are small, and internship opportunities will be both plentiful and diverse from my first semester onward. I will likely major in physics, because I am very interested in the natural laws that govern our world, and I eagerly look forward to the “Aha!” moments upon solving complex physics problems. I am excited about all the opportunities available at college, from learning alongside other physics enthusiasts to doing highlevel research with world-renowned professors.

One of the biggest lessons I learned at SAS is to never give up. Often, when we start something, we seem like helpless fish flopping around on dry land, struggling to make progress for years on end. However, if we persevere and work hard, we can build the necessary foundations of knowledge and character that lead to massive growth. Thus, I learned that not all growth is visible, and that it is crucial to persevere no matter what. At SAS, I have grown to love learning all sorts of things, from the logical STEM topics to subjects that are more abstract and open to interpretation, such as English and music.

What I will miss most about at SAS is the school environment, because it can never be replicated. We may meet our friends further down the road, but the unique backdrop that SAS created—around which our friendships were formed and shaped— will no longer exist. Out of the many people at SAS who have inspired me over the years, Jefferson Zhang stands out, both for his love of deep academic learning and his stunning efficiency at completing tasks.

To all the younger Eagles out there, I would counsel you to study hard and play hard, but make sure to treasure your friendships and the countless opportunities at SAS as well! Dream hard, strive to meet those dreams, and be very efficient in your use of time. To the rising seniors, start early on your college applications!

Next Adventure: Saint Louis University Eagle since Kindergarten

I will enter Saint Louis University, renowned for its aviation program, to study flight science with the goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot. I am excited to further my knowledge and obtain the licenses necessary to be a professional pilot. My great-grandfather, grandfather, and grandmother all worked on military fighter jets at Lockheed Martin-General Dynamics, so I have been immersed in aviation throughout my life. I'm looking forward to meeting students who are also passionate about aviation, as well as experiencing new things in college.

I have been involved in many activities throughout high school, including Peer Support, National Honor Society, service clubs Project Dignity and READ Bhutan, the mock trial team, and softball. Additionally, I studied to become a private pilot and received my private pilot license in the summer before my senior year. Making time for so many activities can be difficult, and I had to learn to say “no” to some so I could give my all to others. I believe learning to manage my time effectively will be an important skill in college and beyond.

Interim Semester 2023 in Sydney, Australia was by far the highlight of my senior year and SAS experience. Our previous Interims were pandemicrestricted, so it was great to get to travel to a new country, meet new people, and try new things. The trip included surfing at Manly beach, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and visiting the Sydney Opera House. I don't know of any other high school in the US that sends students on international trips, so it's a pretty unique and special experience.

My main piece of advice for younger students is to use ninth and tenth grades to explore your interests and find the activities that you like best. There is so much value in playing a sport, joining a service club, or participating in the arts. Once you have found your favorite activities, commit to them and give them your all. And during the college application process, stay organized and start drafting your essays over the summer before your senior year!

Bo Pilarczyk

Looking forward to creativity and community

Learning veterinary skills in Scotland

Avni Varshney

Engineering and go-karts in Indiana

Indéa Windust

English literature in Rome, Italy

Next Adventure: Tufts University

Eagle since Second Grade

A few days before the Early Decision II college application deadline, I felt stuck about which school to apply to. After many scribbled diagrams and hour-long conversations with my parents, it was the SAS graduates now at Tufts who cemented my decision to apply there. All were more than willing not just to send extensive voice messages on their thoughts, but also to put me in contact with peers in my intended area of study—biomedical engineering. Their candid kindness and feedback on the collaborative nature at Tufts sold me and solidified my excitement to attend this fall.

Despite being half German and half American, I consider Singapore home. After living here for the past 11 years, I am thankful for the Singapore community and SAS, which have nurtured the person I am today. One of the main reasons I am grateful to have attended SAS is its emphasis on creation. From sixth grade cooking classes to Catalyst in high school, SAS consistently provides diverse avenues to hands-on creativity.

One passion I never anticipated to flourish when I first tried it in sixth grade has been dance. SAS and the dance faculty at our school—notably Ms. R, Ms. Cherry, and Ms. Yenny—are the reason I have been able to explore my sense of self through movement and meet many amazing people. At SAS, no two dancers have the same background. Instead, we all have stylistic preferences and quirks that make up the vibrant composition of our dance shows.

For rising juniors and seniors contemplating the college-application process, you’ll spare yourself lots of frustration if you complete as much as you can during school breaks, so you don’t need to do much during the school year. For younger students at SAS, my advice is to seek out what makes you excited. While this was my friends and dance for me, others find community in debate teams, IASAS sports, and so forth. Find a niche that you enjoy and feel inspired by, and you may just find some of your closest friends.

Next Adventure: University of Edinburgh Veterinary School

Eagle since Eighth Grade

Next year, I hope to attend the University of Edinburgh, specifically the university’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, to pursue my dreams of becoming a veterinarian! I most look forward to learning all the skills needed in the field, taking horses on walks through the Scottish hills, and joining many clubs and societies!

Learning to balance my interests and activities with academics is something I learned at SAS. I was very involved with the debate club, Science National Honor Society, choir and performing arts, Music Honor Society, SAVE club, and Model United Nations. I also learned dance, piano, and Mandarin on the side. Doing all of that alongside keeping my grades up, and obtaining work experience with animals for my desired college degree, wasn’t easy—in fact, it was truly exhausting sometimes. But it gives me hope that I’ll be able to pursue my hobbies and interests in the future while maintaining academic success.

I truly loved some of the teachers I had at SAS: Mrs. White (my inspiring, supportive, chemistry teacher), Mr. Larson (the best advisor ever), Ms. Elhai (who inspired the debate kids), Mr. Craig (all-round sweetest teacher) and countless more. I value their role in shaping me to be who I am and I will miss them dearly.

To the younger Eagles out there, my advice is get to know your teachers! They’re truly some of your biggest well-wishers, and they want you to succeed as much as you do. I wouldn’t have gotten to where I am today without the constant support of my teachers, and as I say my farewells, I know I want to keep in touch with the ones that truly made a difference in my life. Trust me, it makes their day to form bonds with their students, and it’ll make your time learning in their class so much more fulfilling and enjoyable.

Next Adventure: Purdue University

Eagle since Sixth Grade

In the fall of 2023, I will be studying engineering at Purdue University. This institution has the same classes for all first year engineering students, ensuring a strong base of knowledge that can be applied to all engineering majors. Because I am unsure which type of engineering I would like to pursue, this approach opens up opportunities for me to explore the different options. I am especially looking forward to participating in Purdue’s “Grand Prix,” where engineering students create their own go-karts from scratch and compete against others.

Throughout high school, I participated in the service clubs Spotlight on Staff (SOS) and Ronald McDonald House and Charities (RMHC). SOS supports the local staff at SAS through hosting appreciation events and care packages. RMHC supports the children and families living at National University Hospital. Both of these clubs share one of the same goals: building connections with others in order to support them. When I first entered the intensive care unit ward of RMHC, children surrounded me, excited to meet someone new. That day, I played Monopoly, UNO, and Jenga with Jacob, a Milo-loving six-year-old whose sister was hospitalized. Listening to Jacob talk about his sister was a formative experience because it gave me a new perspective that I had not considered before. I intend to continue service in Indiana through the EPICS learning communities where I can learn engineering through serving the local community.

Ultimately, the connections I formed with my friends and teachers at SAS made my experience memorable. Because SAS has a diverse student body, these connections enabled me to grow as a person, look at global issues from different perspectives, and find unique solutions to problems. Therefore, my advice to younger students is to get to know your community— whether it’s talking with the security guards as you enter the school or getting to know people through clubs. In summation, my experiences at SAS have helped me grow as a person; I truly cherish everyone who played a part in my journey.

Next Adventure: John Cabot University

Eagle since Sixth Grade

Next year I will attend John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. I chose this university for its diverse student body and because it uses an American curriculum in English while being located in Rome. I plan to study English literature because I have always thrived in English classes. During high school, I’ve spent many hours hunched over my laptop in the Student Life Center trying to express my ideas through words, and outside of school, I’m a book reviewer and I publish my writing.

I’ll miss my advisory the most, because it was always entertaining and hilarious. We actually went through five different advisors, but most of us students stayed the whole four years. Whether it was playing Among Us while social distancing in sophomore year or being way too competitive at trivia in our senior year, we’ve had so much fun together. I looked forward to every Tuesday and Friday because I knew I’d come out of advisory with a smile.

My favorite SAS memory has to be from Interim Semester this year. Our class had our only international interim this year, but I did a teacher apprenticeship at SAS under the incredible Meaghan Odell. I had so many hilarious and heartfelt moments with our seventh-grade students, I realized that I want to become a teacher one day.

My personal academic counselor Dr. Jeff Devens also encouraged me to pursue a career in education through his drive and passion for his job and his students.

I would encourage younger students to push themselves out of their comfort zones by trying new things. And to rising seniors, I’d say to tune out everyone else’s opinions and focus on what you want after college. During the application season, you’re going to hear a lot of talk about acceptance rates and prestige. But guess what? Next year, you won’t be in SAS, and you’ll be far from your classmates’ opinions, so make sure you’re applying for you and not for them.