Meet Cameron Bissett

Learn more about Cameron Bissett, Alumni (Class of 2016, attended ISL from 2008 to 2016)

Where are you living now?
UK (Oxford)

What did you do after you left ISL?
I went on to complete an undergraduate Master’s degree in Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular) at the University of Oxford. In my fourth year, I completed my dissertation research project on viral-vectored vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza virus at The Jenner Institute, in The Outbreak & Emerging Pathogens group.

What are you doing now?
I’m currently entering a DPhil (PhD) programme in Clinical Medicine at The Jenner Institute in Oxford, where I will continue to research vaccines against viral pathogens.

Do you think that your time at ISL helped you pursue this? If yes, how?
ISL (and the IB programme) enabled me to direct learning towards my interests within science, whilst equally being able to complete other complementary subjects, i.e. languages and arts. I was encouraged to pursue any extra reading and learning, and to further enrich my knowledge in these areas, which helped provide me with a good foundation and mindset prior to Uni. Moreover, ISL served a wonderful platform from which I was presented a diverse array of options for higher education.

Were you involved in any clubs/activities at ISL? What did you enjoy about them and what benefit do you think they have for students?
I was involved in cross country and track & field, both of which along with Mérite Jeunesse, were excellent environments that both individually challenged me but provided a sense of comradery – I’ll never forget the amazing effort and sincerity of all my coaches. I also enjoyed how after school sports offered a regimented form of exercise, and encouraged me to switch off temporarily from school work. Additionally, in upper school I participated in the Biology Olympiad. The Olympiad pushes you out of your comfort zone; students are forced to use their critical thinking skills and not dwell on their weaknesses.
 
How did your time at ISL help shape you as a person?
On a higher level, ISL provided me with the confidence to tackle challenges and remain ambitious, as the environment informed me of my true potential and capabilities in a multifaceted manner.  

What do you think is unique about ISL?
The international body of students and staff, and the receptiveness of the institution to novel ideas.

Describe ISL in 5 words:
Opportunity, International, Innovative, Community, Enriching