ISD Class of 2009 - Recently Updated Pages

Mr. Abdul Ly

MsFashoyin — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 14:37:00 CDT

“The glimmers of hope provoke those without dollars to dream through your existence become wealthy. Knowledge is king” are the words that inspire El Haj Abdul Ly to make the best out of any situation. As this Senegalese young man talks more about the message of personal choice and optimism from the famous quote by Rap Artist/Poet Nas, he shares that “your life is basically what you make out of your experiences.” As he takes a moment to think about the quote, he appears very far away, going through the fastest flashback-journey through time. So many memories, so many experiences, all leading up to this moment and all Abdul can muster is “don’t limit yourself.” If he could leave a message for ISD students, he would tell them to take advantage of their environment and seize every opportunity to grow. As much as Abdul is looking forward to this next chapter of his life, he appears slightly overwhelmed by everything that has brought him to this moment. His faith, his family, his friends, his school, everyone who supported and encouraged him, especially during the instances when he didn’t believe in himself, it’s said as silent whisper, “I am so grateful.”

How does one get admitted into Harvard University? Ask Abdul Ly and he might say the same words he said on April 1st when Harvard, Georgetown, Columbia and Stanford Universities informed him of his admissions, “don’t limit yourself.” The Student Council President, who was also admitted to Yale University in December, encourages all students to make the most of their environment, and out of life. Given the opportunity to do it again, Abdul says he would not change anything. “I have no regrets, high school was a great experience and I hope college will be too,” Abdul says. Unsure about what he will major in, he is leaning toward the social sciences field and is certain he will stay in touch with the international and African community on campus. However, I suspect the latter because of benefits of having frequent servings of “home” food. The list appears endless when Abdul starts talking about all the things, people, and tastes he is going to miss, but when he mentions “warmth,” he gets slightly depressed. From hanging out with upperclassmen when he was in the 9th & 10th grades, attending a leadership conference with the People-to-People organization, to beating DA during a recent soccer match, high school has been one memorable learning adventure.

The decision was not easily made, even with a visit to the New England area to visit some campuses, but in the end, a choice had to be made, a choice that would incorporate all the factors that were most important to him. This fall, Abdul will enroll a s freshman on the Cambridge campus of Harvard University. “He’s balanced, works hard and knows how to handle different situations. He’s just a star” Abdul says about his other brother, the person who inspires and encourages him to take great leaps. As exceptional as it is, Abdul knows the admission was the first big step, still, he remains at ease, comfortable and optimistic that whatever may come, he is going to take advantage of every experience. As you continue to take great leaps Abdul, we wish you all the courage, confidence and endurance to stay on track until you reach your next destination.

Congratulations

Find Abdul here fall 2009~

The 9-'09 Crew

MsFashoyin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:45:35 CDT

We'll miss you...

Bonne chance
Ngikufisela inhlanhla
Allah ki démè
Veel geluk
Wërceuk bu barri
Gira imigisha
Best wishes

~CONGRATULATIONS~

Ms. Paula Traore

MsFashoyin — Mon, 18 May 2009 07:25:11 CDT

“Oh my gosh, I am going to miss the sun” she says worriedly as she thinks about her next few years studying in Holland. As much as Paula Irène Traoré is looking forward to the events after high school graduation, she is not looking forward to cold winters. Still, Paula is excited. There is something unique about this experience, and it is going through it with all her friends. She feels blessed to have always been surrounded by supportive friends - friends who make anything easier to handle and a lot more fun! Asked about a favorite quote or motto that inspires her, Paula quickly responds that, “what goes around comes around.” As she reflects on past experiences that have taught her the invaluable lessons of accountability, she emphasizes the importance of personal choice, and not doing things to others that others would not want done to them. Classes like Psychology and Sociology have provided her with a lot of insight on behavior and relationships. And, as she looks forward to a career applying all that she has learned, Paula leaves a message of responsibility for her peers. “Don’t procrastinate because if you leave you work until the last night, you will not get the grade you could have gotten if you started earlier. Start thinking a bout college early,” Paula says, a message she directs to 9th and 10th graders.

“There is just so much,” and it’s almost overwhelming
to look back at 13 years in ISD and growing up in an international community, that Paula cannot withhold a smile as she remembers faces, events and adventures. As the student in the class of 2009 who has been at ISD the longest, seeing people come and go is not a new reality for Paula. Still, the fact that this time it will be her who is leaving feels a bit “unknown” and she is hoping her experience of dealing with transition and moving-forward will help with her adjustment. This fall, Paula will be enrolled as a Leisure Management student on the campus of InHolannd University and is looking forward to being independent and responsible, learning more about hospitality, and getting a well-paying job. Unsure of what student clubs/organizations she will join when she arrives on campus, Paula promises to look at her options and join a club that will allow her to meet new people, and hopefully, help with transition to college-life.

Hanging out with Iba, Yasmin, and Lindsay, eating Thiebou Yapp on the field, and the recent soccer tournament are the 1st things that come to mind as Paula reflects on memorable high school events. “I am going to miss Senegalese food, the friendliness of people saying hi on the street, my mom, my friends, and THE BEACH,” Paula exclaims as she thinks about her departure. But, any sadness felt is quickly removed when she thinks about being able to come back home, and get her hands on a satisfying serving of the Madd fruit! “If you are ready to fight for what you really want, you can get there” Paula says as she talks about President Barack Obama, who she sees as an inspiration to achieve her goals. The very best of wishes to you Paula as you continue challenging yourself, aiming higher and surpassing your own expectations~
Congratulations
Find Paula here fall 2009~

Ms. Nanamoye Ascofare

MsFashoyin — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:47:47 CDT

“She taught us that you have to work for everything you really want” Nanamoye Ascofare says about growing up with a single mother. When asked about her motivation to succeed, Nanamoye talks extensively about her mother, describing her as a symbol of what it means to be independent and responsible. Born in Bamako, Mali, Nanamoye joined ISD in the 10th grade from the International School in Niamey and is described by her friends as reliable, trustworthy and silly. As graduation approaches, Nanamoye cannot hide her excitement! As she looks forward to independence - living on her own - discovering new places - and meeting new people, she appears more confident than ever. Still, Nanamoye becomes a bit melancholy when she thinks about the people, places she will be leaving behind. “I am going to struggle,” she confesses as she thinks about food, cooking and dormitory life. ISD, teachers, friends, family and the homely-feeling she has since developed living in Dakar casts a cloud of anxiety on her impending departure to Canada this fall. Though she had previously thought of leaving her blanket behind, she has decided to take it along, with hopes that it might make the living in a “foreign-land” transition a bit easier.

Nanamoye was admitted into six universities, including the University of Virginia and Boston University. This fall, she will be a resident on the Woodsworth campus at the University of Toronto. She plans to major in Psychology and when asked about the likelihood of joining a student organization, she responds with a very enthusiastic “Yeah!” As she did here at ISD, Nanamoye hopes to play volleyball and soccer and cannot wait to become a member of the African Students Association. “That’s digging deep, where to start,” is Nanamoye’s response as she reminisces on her high school years. From “lunch chaos” with Alioune, Paula, Victor and Elhaje, to Spirit Week’s “interesting” outfits, Nanamoye sums up high school with a single phrase “everyday is something new.” If she could leave a message for her peers, Nanamoye says that she would tell them to work hard and play hard.

A firm believer that “you will reap what you sow,” and recipient of the Class of 2009 Overcomer Award because of her diligence and optimism, Nanamoye e ncourages her peers to never give up because, “it is never too late.” This year has been a busy one for Ms. Ascofare, filled with the highs and lows of aiming high and reaching far. Even with the genuine feeling of pride and joy from her unique achievements, it might all be happening too fast. As habit to never back away from the unknown, Nanamoye feels that whatever may come, she will be able to handle it, one day at a time. Nana, we hope that the confidence you have proudly experienced will inspire and motivate you through everything you set you mind to achieve~

Congratulations
Find Nanamoye here fall 2009~

Ms. Charlotte Lacombe-Bar

MsFashoyin — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:17:20 CDT

“It’s really interesting and there are a lot of possibilities to create anything. It posses a lot of challenges, but the end result is really nice,” Charlotte says as she describes her favorite subject, Computer Science. Charlotte Marie Lacombe-Bar was born in Le Chesnay, France and though she was “new” to the senior class this year, she jumped right in. Anyone could see her passion for Computers was strong and she started the school year determined to find a University that would cater to her unique interests. When asked to talk about a quote that inspires her, she does not hesitate before she responds, “fly the cage.” She then goes on to provide a very interesting analogy about how to deal with problems. “When you think you don’t have any options or feel trapped by a situation, just fly with the challenge” Charlotte says. The quote encourages her to think about the many ways to look at a problem, how to learn from the problem and how to use it to her advantage. “Don’t feel trapped, just take it with you!” That is how Ms. Lacombe-Bar has been handling all the twists and turns of high school. In some ways, she feels very ready and in some ways, she is quite concerned. Handing everything on her own, looking after herself, and cooking are some of Charlotte’s main concerns as she prepares for her move to the UK this fall.

Still, the excitement of learning more about her passion with the hopes to go to graduate school and enjoy going to work everyday, helps to reassure Charlotte that she will be okay. Even though being away from her family, friends, and her several cats might be hard at first, she is really looking forward to the learning more about independence and doing some research on campus. Charlotte was admitted into the University of Greenwich and Kingston University, both in the UK. This fall, she will be enrolled as a freshman at the University of Teesside, studying Game Programming. Looking back, she smiles as she remembers the surprise dinner a few classmates put together for their favorite teacher and how all the students saved money and grounded themselves from shopping for months. She laughs as she remembers being part of the team who designed her former schools Library website, and how the group made many attempts to keep the meetings formal, though the eating and frequent jokes kept the atmosphere very informal, which created comfort and produced more creativity.

“Enjoy what you learn” is the message Charlotte wants to leave for her peers. “Too many people try to just learn, but it’s more important to see the value of it. There are a lot of great and interesting things that people miss out on because they try to just rush and not really enjoy what they are learning,” Charlotte says. She confesses that it’s sometimes hard, but believes that it makes a difference when you try to really learn and take something away. May your passion for learning never cease, Charlotte, and we wish the very best as you work diligently to discover how far your passion can take you~

Congratulations
Find Charlotte here fall 2009~

Ms. Leslie Kongo-Doudou

MsFashoyin — Mon, 11 May 2009 09:16:13 CDT

“Stay focused, and prioritize everything. Yep, that’s what you should do” says Leslie Ingoba Kongo-Doudou. If she could sum up her high school career and leave some words of encouragement for her peers, that would be Leslie’s message. It has not always been easy, and Leslie will be the first to tell you that life throws many transitions at you and sometimes we fall short. Still, this young lady, from New York has decided to keep pressing forward. Leslie joined ISD in the 11th grade and as she prepares to graduate in a few weeks, she admits that she feels stronger, and more confident. Leslie is ready to take on University, and knows that anything is up to her. As she looks back on everything, all she can say is “wow.” The classes, the people, the places, Leslie considers herself to be very blessed to have experienced all that she has. Still, she is looking forward to meeting new people, taking more technology classes and finding out more about herself.

This fall, Leslie will be enrolled as a freshman at the University of Houston, Downtown. Something a bit unique about Leslie’s soon-to-be-campus is that she will be venturing to new territory. International students face many unique challenges as they travel far away to continue their education, and thus, ther e is a tendency to see students follow the footsteps of previous graduates, in terms of university locations. However, Leslie decided to step-out and try her luck in the South and she was successful: a simple, but inspirational act. What attracted her most to Houston, Texas - the diversity, weather and internship possibilities with the many international companies based there. It is our hope that future ISD students will follow in similar footsteps, and explore what many “not-so-popular” locations have to offer when it is time to apply for admission. Leslie’s inspirations…her parents. “My mom started from humble beginnings and has shown me that anything is possible.” Her father taught her that success comes from hard work and education is the most important tool anyone can have. As she reflects on the sacrifices her parents made for her, Leslie says “I owe them a lot and I am going to give my everything in college.” Still, Leslie is going to miss ISD, her friends, and being able to act goofy and carefree.

Sometimes, it takes one experience, one person or even just one class to recognize your interests and/or skills, and in Leslie’s case, that’s what happened. Her videography class has been a real motivation and in some ways an inspiration to work harder because she says she has realized there are many careers, fields and paths to success. Though Leslie is undecided about her major, she does have an increased desire to explore, the constantly evolving digital world. She is grateful to her friends, who keep her grounded and her parents who model what it means to follow your heart and be successful. Leslie, as your passion continues to drive you to challenge yourself, we wish all joy and success. Best wishes in Houston~

Congratulations
Find Leslie here fall 2009~

Ms. Madeleine Spivey

MsFashoyin — Mon, 11 May 2009 08:11:23 CDT

The Chinese proverb, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with one single step” is the quote Madeleine Kate Spivey says keeps her grounded and helps to put things in perspective. Born in Subiaco, Australia and a proud Third Culture Kid, Madeleine joined ISD in the 9th grade. When asked how she feels about fall 2009 on a University campus, “I can’t wait,” is all Madeleine says. Madeleine has been looking forward to this part of life for a very long time as she prepares to become a New York City resident. She notes she is going to exercise restraint from shopping all the time. Still, as she looks back, she is all smiles. The friendships made, the Chemistry class choruses, and the too-many trips to NiceCream are some of Madeleine fondest memories of her high school years. As much as Madeleine is welcoming the independence and opportunities of University, she is going to miss her family tremendously and feels very grateful for supportive parents. She feels the pressure, and the pride, especially as the 1st person in her maternal family to go to University. “My parents always aim high, taught us never to settle and my dad worked really hard in college because he had to pay for it himself,” Madeleine says about her motivation to face this new chapter of her life, head on.

“I love New York” were probably Madeleine’s introductory words when we met three years ago. And thus, it only seemed natural that she would continue her educational journey in the “Big Apple.” Madeleine was admitted to St. Johns University, City College of New York and Pace University with a $50,000 merit scholarship! Her favorite subjects - anything to do with social sciences and she plans to double major in Psychology and Early Childhood Education when she enrolls as a freshman at City College this fall. “I love working with kids, well, as long as they are under 10years,” Madeline says about her decision to major in Education. She understands that everything is going to be bigger, and come with more responsibility, but Madeleine feels ready for the challenge. Nevertheless, she is going to miss the normalcy of high school, ISD, and of course, Sandaga! “ISD changed everything,” Madeleine says about her hatred for school before moving to Sénégal four years ago. The joy and enthusiasm she exuberates would make it hard for anyone to believe that just a few years ago, she never thought she would be this excited about continuin g her education in University. “Being around ISD students was very encouraging because everyone goes to University and I have always felt positive and comfortable to be myself,” Madeleine says about the drive to aim higher.

What is Madeleine’s message to her peers and how does she sum it all up: “Don’t give up, because as soon as you give up, you loose everything.” Though she reflects on the joys and setbacks that have happened over the years, this young lady is determined and her direction gets clearer each day and with every single step. We wish you the best Madeleine as you set and reach for your goals, remembering that every new dawn brings a wonderful chance to do what you can on that day~

Congratulations
Find Madeleine here fall 2009~

Ms. Nompikazi Majola

MsFashoyin — Mon, 11 May 2009 08:00:45 CDT

“Once upon a time, it was Math, but AP Calculus is kicking me hard”, Nompi says about her favorite class. Nompi reflects back on her Math ‘journeys” and though she knows she’ll be more prepared this fall, she is feeling the pressure now! Always optimistic and the unofficial high school cheerleader, Nompikazi Cikizwa Majola was born in Lusaka and is from Johannesburg, South Africa. Nompi joined ISD in January 2006 and has since established herself an assertive, resourceful leader on campus. As she did here on campus, Nompi is looking forward to joining the soccer and basketball teams this fall, as well as the drama club. As she gets ready to graduate high school in a few weeks, Nompi is looking forward to “freedom, independence and just growing up.” One word to describe Ms. Majola: enthusiastic! Her friends describe her as unpredictable and her teachers describe her as positive, cheerful and responsible. A style-icon, dancer and poet, Nompi has shared many of her inspirational works at various community events.

Since I met Nompi, she has been kind of all over the mapJ. I remember at one point, she was interested in studying in Egypt or France, then there was a period of deep interest in Spain. But today, Ms. Majola has settled on the UK, at least for now. Nompi was admitted into Richmond University, the University of Lancaster and the European Business School, all in the UK. For her years of academic discipline and diligence, Nompi was awarded a £24,000 merit scholarship by Richmond University and will be enrolled as a Presidential Scholar this fall. Always adventurous and open-minded, Nompi found a unique way of blending all her interests into one major/course – International Business, with Languages. Always with an open-mind - Nompi was named co-captain of the Girls Soccer Team. A great team-player, Nompi attributes her achievements to her mother, who she describes as independent, hard-working and a great role-model of success. Though her days in Dakar are numbered, Nompi is not the type of student to look at situations as final, more so as continuous or a steeping stone to other things. So, though she will miss her easily-accessible servings of Bissap, Thiebu diene and Yogo Glacé, she feels grateful for all she is taking away.

What is Nompi going to miss about ISD and high school…the annual Elementary School Lock-IN! The wild-crazy-fun sleepover for almost fifty elementary students was a major highlight in Nompi’s last year and though she admits there were some “scary” moments, the simple fun was memorable. Nompi’s words of wisdom to her underclassmen peers, “you should work throughout high school, starting in the 9th grade. Trust me, it will pay off in the end,” says the young lady who is considered the rock that keeps everyone steady, focused, and smiling. Nompi, thank you for your cheerful and yes-we-can attitude! We all wish the very best at Richmond, and beyond~

Congratulations
Find Nompi here fall 2009~

Mr. Victor Nshimiye

MsFashoyin — Mon, 11 May 2009 07:52:37 CDT

“Win the SIPS tournament,” is the message Victor Nshimiye’s would leave with his peers as he graduates in a few weeks. Asked about the significance of his words of encouragement, and he simply says, “because its not been done before.” With all the young talent at ISD, Victor feels confident that ISD can win the entire tournament and hopes that victory will take place next school year. As Victor looks back at his three years at ISD and twelve years living in Sénégal, though it feels great to finally graduate high school, it also feels a bit “unreal.” Nevertheless, he speaks with much optimism and does not hesitate to share his big plans for himself. Born in Kigali, Rwanda, Victor Nshimiye will be enrolling as a Business Management student this fall at Carleton University in Canada. Victor was also awarded a merit scholarship from Carleton University and though he was admitted to several other Canadian universities, he chose Carleton because of its smaller and more cohesive community. As he eagerly looks forward to being successful, making lots of money, and maintaining the grade requirements of his scholarship, Victor admits that he is not looking forward to the things he is going to miss in Dakar, especially Shady Shack’s famous Philly Cheese steaks.

“J’encaisee et j’avançe” is what keeps him going. Literally, Victor Nshimiye’s favorite quote means “even though I dislike things as they are, I keep moving on.” Asked why he frequently refers to these words, Victor reflects on its motivational message about moving forward even when we have to do things we don’t necessarily like. He then goes on to give numerous examples of life’s “obstacles” and the fact that life doesn’t give you anything for free, “you have to fight for it,” Victor says. “Winning the basketball tournament last year was one of my biggest achievements in high school. We won the whole thing” Victor joyfully says. The victory was not easy, but as he thinks about how hard they worked, all you see on his face is pride. Always active and enjoys being part of a team, Victor is looking forward to playing basketball and staying physically fit while at Carleton. Something he knows will prevent him from the mysterious “freshman-15,” the reality that most freshmen put on 15 pounds during the first semester of university due to unhealthy eating habits.

Where does Victor see himself ten years from now, either managing his own textile company or being the manager of a soccer team. “I am going to miss my friends,” Victor shares as he remembers some high school highlights. Eating Thiebou Yapp on the field with his classmates during Senegalese Awareness Week and being able to dress up and see the beautiful outfits people wear that week are some the events Victor will miss when he moves to Ontario this fall. Nevertheless, he is grateful for having grown up around supportive people, who encourage and provide him with a model of success. Victor is thankful to his sister, whom he describes as independent and responsible, and he is grateful to his mom, whom he says has always been supportive and pushes him to follow everything through. As you finish, and as you begin, we hope that you will continue to let the valuable lessons and experiences guide and motivate you to keep moving forward~

Congratulations
Find Victor here fall 2009~

Ms. Mariella Munyuzangabo

MsFashoyin — Mon, 11 May 2009 07:46:16 CDT

“The ambiance, Thiebou Yapp, and Sandaga,” are just a few of the things Mariella is going to miss when she moves to Canada this fall. Mariella Nineza Munyuzangabo, known to her friends as “Ella” was born in Burundi and is from Kigali, Rwanda. “Take one day at a time a time and think big,” a message Mariella says she got from her father that encourages her to work hard. “When I told him about wanting to be a doctor, he really showed me all the options and ways I could go. He always thinks big and told me I could one day open my own hospital for children.” Mariella received admissions offers to the University of Toronto, York University and the University of British Columbia with a merit scholarship. Hoping to one day become a Neonatologist, Mariella will enroll into the University of Toronto this fall and is currently undecided about which life science she will study. She’s aware of the several years she is going to put-in to reach her goal of becoming a Physician, but Mariella is in no hurry. Always living in the present, learning from the past and keeping an eye out for the future, Mariella is looking forward to all the joys and adventures of University.

Still, it’s all going to be a bit hard for Ms. Ella. Being very close to her family, especially her siblings, she is already feeling the withdrawal symptoms of living on her own next year. Umoja Unity Showcase, ISD Fashions/Talent Shows, Student Council events and the recent basketball trip to Lagos are some of Mariella’s high school highlights. Forever a busy-bee, and never without an agenda of to-do items, Mariella is looking forward to partaking in the several student activities on campus this fall. Named captain on the girl’s basketball team this year, Mariella hopes to continue playing basketball and will join an intramurals team this fall. She is also looking forward to joining the African Students Association, as well as an African Dance Group. Always with a proactive mind, Mariella says she has no problem getting some people together to start an African Dance Group if there isn’t already one on campus.

Mariella’s message to her peers, “don’t procrastinate, because there are consequences, and, don’t strss too much.” Described as determined, kind and the best popcorn-maker at ISD, Mariella’s warm personality and resourcefulness is sure to be missed next year. She feels grateful to her parents for giving her the opportunity to grow up in an international environment. As she looks forward to the different experiences of being a in bigger school environment and living in the lively city of Toronto, Mariella says, “I’m taking a lot with me, I am more prepared and I have met lots of great people because of how I grew up.” As you begin this new journey Mariella, we hope that the strength and positive attitude that has brought you this far continue to guide your every endeavor~

Congratulations
Find Mariella here fall 2009~

ISD Class of 2009 Home

MsFashoyin — Fri, 08 May 2009 11:41:27 CDT

Who are they? What are some of their special high school memories? What are they looking forward to? What message do they have for their underclassmen peers? Who inspires them?

Get to know the Super-9 seniors of the Class of 2009 at the International School of Dakar, Senegal.