ST MARY’S SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE

St Mary’s international students come from diverse backgrounds, ignite their passions, and embark on journeys that span continents and industries.

Habiba’s remarkable journey from Maiduguri, Nigeria, to becoming a trailblazing energy and climate change researcher exemplifies the spirit of St Mary’s. She achieved straight A* grades in her A levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry, and her Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) that looked at the possibility of a world powered entirely by renewable energy sources. St Mary’s paved the way for Bachelors and Masters degrees, and eventually a PhD in energy systems and climate change research. Today, Habiba is a driving force in the field, working with organisations such as the Rocky Mountain Institute and the Energy for Growth Hub.

That success story is just one of many. Another alumna, who studied Maths, Chemistry, and Geography at St Mary’s, became a Radio Producer at Bloomberg. She studied Chemistry at Cardiff University and then a Masters in Journalism at the University of Hong Kong. She has collaborated with Sky News and Vice, and is already making an impressive impact on the world of journalism. St Mary’s School extends its support far beyond graduation. Recent alumnae reunions are a testament to the enduring bonds forged here. Now a Junior Specialist at Christie’s Hong Kong, another alumna recently hosted the Asian Pastonian Society, where a strong sense of community, support and mentorship was evident.

The success stories continue with Cally, who recently won an International Design & Architecture Award for her company, Coltex Furnishing. Her time at St Mary’s was instrumental in shaping her creative career.

“The support at St Mary’s has made me who I am. Unlimited resources to expand my ideas created a solid foundation to study at Chelsea College of Art and Design and start my creative career.” Cally

In a world where talent knows no borders, international students at St Mary’s School are equipped with the skills and confidence to make their mark on the global stage. St Mary’s is not just a school; it’s a launchpad for international greatness.

Maria joined Downside from Poland in 2021. She was a pupil who embraced all the opportunities offered to her and thrived in a truly international community which welcomes individual cultures and heritage.

‘When I joined Downside, I was struck by the number of international pupils from all around the world. Becoming Deputy Head of School in the Upper Sixth made me realise that everyone, even those who came just for a term, added so much to our community and diversified it. The way numerous cultures merged fascinated me, and together with discovering different traditions from various countries all around the world, I have been inspired to work in international relations in the future. As I began my Spanish A Level studies, I became immersed in the culture and the language, which I always tried to practice with my Spanish or South American friends. My fabulous language teachers encouraged me to go further and consider studying abroad; currently, I am applying to universities in Spain. Now, my biggest dream is working in diplomacy.

The education at Downside not only influenced my future at university, but also inspired me to explore various subjects and read more. At school I learned to appreciate art and became fascinated by American history and religious studies. Downside truly shaped me as a person, being a place where people feel comfortable sharing their different experiences, interests, and views seeking to find the truth.’