Where are you living now?
I recently moved back to Luxembourg to open my own Physiotherapy practice in Bertrange.

What did you do after you left ISL?
After graduating from ISL in 2014, I moved to the United Kingdom where I completed both my Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees. I then worked at a private physiotherapy clinic in Henley upon Thames, United Kingdom before moving back to Luxembourg.

What did you study at university?
I completed my Undergraduate degree in BSc Sport and Exercise Science at Loughborough University. I then completed a 2-year Postgraduate degree at the University of East Anglia in MSc Physiotherapy (pre-registration). Alongside my university degrees, I completed several additional physiotherapy courses such as: Sport Massage, FIFA Sport Medicine, Pilates (matwork and reformer), Compex and Neuromuscular Electro-stimulation, Acupuncture and Dry Needling as well as TECAR therapy. 

What are you doing now?
My partner and I moved back to Luxembourg in August 2021 where we worked at physiotherapy practices in Limpertsberg and Kirchberg. In March 2022, we opened our own clinic, Powerbase Physiotherapy, in Bertrange to cater for the large international community in Luxembourg. Within our practice we offer many different services including sport and post-operative injury rehabilitation, pediatric physiotherapy for children and adolescents as well as women`s health services. Our goal is to help “Remove Pain, Restore Movement and Return to daily activities.”

Do you think that your time at ISL helped you pursue this? If yes, how?
Yes, I believe that ISL and especially the IB program gave me the tools to excel at third level education, pursue my interests and achieve my career of choice. The IB program provided me with a well-rounded education allowing me to explore various academic pathways. Thanks to the supportive and caring environment created by ISL I was able to develop my confidence, knowledge and ambition which allowed me to take the risk of starting my own business.

What advantages has studying at ISL given you?
ISL provides a unique learning environment due to its students through an internationally recognized education pathway including the Cambridge IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate both exceptional stepping stones to third level education and institutions. ISL also provided several extracurricular programs which enhances the schooling experience and ensures well-rounded graduates.

What advice would you give students to help them make the most of their time at ISL?
Take advantage of all of the wonderful extracurricular activities at ISL, including both sporting and creative outlets to allow for the formation of a well-rounded character. These activities are not only fun but are also advantageous upon graduating as it adds substance to University applications and CVs. I would also recommend making full use of the excellent resources available at ISL, including the teaching and supervisory staff. Given the many nationalities attending ISL, it is important to interact and understand the different views and cultures of your fellow peers/classmates for your own learning and personal development.

Were you involved in any clubs/activities at ISL?
As a competitive swimmer who swam for the national team of Luxembourg and competed at several national and international events, it was sometimes difficult to find spare time for anything other than training and school. However, ISL was very accommodating around my rigorous training schedule which allowed me to be a part of NECIS teams for both volleyball and swimming from U12 through to Senior-Varsity level. I thoroughly enjoyed the team aspect of the volleyball and the away games with friends.  I enjoyed going to the school swim sessions to get involved with coaching, helping to develop and hopefully sparking the interest of the younger generation. If I’m lucky, I might even have a few NECIS swim records still standing.

Describe some of the things that ISL does above and beyond teaching and learning?
I would say that ISL has created a very strong and caring community. Most students at ISL are ‘third culture kids’ where Luxembourg might be their second or even third home, so ISL, with its teachers, staff and parents become your extended family and support network. I graduated from ISL almost 9 years ago and I keep in contact with my ISL family. Opening Powerbase Physiotherapy has also allowed me to reconnect with some of my old teachers and students who I now see as patients and help them with rehabilitation and recovery. Maintaining these connections has been very fulfilling.

If you could thank a teacher or staff member, who would it be?
It is very difficult to choose just one teacher to thank, as the teaching staff during my time at ISL were all excellent. However, three teachers who had a significant impact on life include:

• Ms. Cutshall for getting me through IB Maths and coming to support me at swim competitions;
• Mrs. Charnaud for spending significant time after hours to help me with IB Biology;
• Mrs. Lorton for supporting me and helping me develop the tools to excel at IB art which allowed me to obtain the IB art cover award for that year.

I would also like to sincerely thank Mr. Sinclair who is at the heart of the IB program organization and the reason why we are all so well prepared and successful for life after ISL. He is an example of someone that goes above and beyond.  

Describe ISL in 5 words:

• Inclusive
• Welcoming
• Distinguished
• Supportive
• Diverse