Meet Zhenia Doluda

Where are you living now?
This will be my second year in London.

What did you do after you left ISL?

Following a relaxing summer after finishing the IB, I moved to London to pursue my BA degree in London, as well as working remotely with a Luxembourgish non-profit organisation.

What did you study at University?

I am about to start my second year at City, University of London where I study Journalism, Politics and History (Hons). 

What are you doing now?
After completing my first year at university, I came back to Luxembourg where I completed a month-long internship with Chronicle lu. Since I study journalism with a focus on political and historical affairs, I felt like this was a perfect opportunity to gain experience from an established publisher in Luxembourg. During my time, I was lucky to write over 20 published articles and attend numerous important events like the Luxembourg Tourism Summit and the Lux HydroValley launch, as well as an art exhibit at the Dutch Ambassador’s House. After my internship, I began to formally work with LUkraine asbl, a Luxembourgish non-profit organisation that aims to help unite Ukrainians abroad and contribute directly to rebuilding Ukraine amid the ongoing war. I began working as a social media manager (SMM), which entails managing all their social media and communications. This work is not only important to me because I am Ukrainian, but also because I help shed light on issues that concern my country and the entirety of Europe. I will be continuing this job remotely as I head back to London for university.

Do you think that your time at ISL helped you pursue this? If yes, how? 

I think ISL was an environment that allowed me to explore my interests in the realm of general studies like sciences, humanities and arts. Since the IB program is so diverse, I found myself liking certain topics that I felt passionate about. Also, ISL enabled me to form some important relationships that not only helped me throughout the last two years but also continued in my university era.
 

What advantages has studying at ISL given you?
Although studying at ISL may seem challenging to some, I think it gave me the tools to pursue a competitive degree with confidence. The social and academic skills that I acquired at ISL are definitely useful in the outside world because they allow me to connect with like-minded people. Also, graduating from an international school allowed me to respect and listen to varying points of view, which is something I consider crucial in my work and life.

What advice would you give students to help them make the most of their time at ISL?
I would recommend joining clubs, and sports teams and overall participating in as many things as possible. These are opportunities to meet new people, learn skills and contribute to causes beyond the classroom.

Were you engaged in any ISL clubs/activities? What did you enjoy about them and what benefit do you think they have for students?

Throughout my two years at ISL, I was an active member of the volleyball team, Amnesty club and Senior committee. The sports team was my first integration into the community because I felt comfortable talking to fellow teammates and contributing to ISL as a whole. The NECIS trips are some of my favourite memories that I will cherish forever. The Amnesty club and Senior committee taught me leadership skills, responsibility and the importance of collaborative work. Only as a group were we able to make an impact on humanitarian issues and the planning of our very special end to the high school experience. I think extra-curricular activities are what make ISL such a diverse and welcoming space.

Please describe some of the things that ISL does above and beyond teaching and learning:

Some of the teachers at ISL contribute a significant portion of their time to their students’ success. Whether it be answering emails or staying after school, I felt supported by numerous teachers through their guidance and personalized help. This ultimately led me to trust them and build a great relationship that is very important in the IB program.

How did your time at ISL help shape you as a person?

My time at ISL helped me become more resilient and ambitious. I became more hard-working and responsible, but also learnt to manage my time very wisely. I think the connections I have made at ISL taught me many lessons that I will doubtlessly use in the future. Thanks to ISL, I can pursue my passions with confidence and support from the people around me.
 

What do you think is unique about ISL?
The international environment is quite helpful because it exposed me to different cultures and opinions. However, I think the most unique aspect of ISL is the standard of work and performance that is expected from students. While there is freedom to choose our path, I think many teachers establish a concrete expectation of success that allows the students to prioritize some things over others.

If you could thank a teacher or staff member, who would it be?
I would like to thank Mr.Peel from the Higher Education Office for his advice and guidance throughout my university application process. During this stressful time for my family and me, he was always a reliable advisor who helped answer all questions and work through any doubts. I think the Higher Education Office does an incredible job of leading students towards their future.

Please describe ISL in 5 words:

An environment to build connections.