Class of 2011 Graduation Ceremony

On Saturday 28 May NIST welcomed its graduating Class of 2011 at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. This evening brought together the Class of 2011, family, friends, administrators and teachers who had the privilege of knowing this diverse group of students.

What a journey it has been for this wonderful group of young adults, who are now embarking on a new and exciting phase of their lives. A graduating class with character, 85 strong, came forward to collect their NIST graduation diplomas as their families, friends and teachers watched on. This graduating class represents an impressive history of academic, creative and service-oriented success. These characteristics were best illustrated in the wide array of universities and specializations chosen, the creative displays of music performed during the evening by students, and through the stories told by those who know them best: their families, their peers, and their teachers.

Many students of the Class of 2011 participated in the International Youth Award (IYA), a prestigious self-development programme where participants tackle four sections: service, adventurous journey, skills and physical recreation. To achieve the Gold Award, a minimum of 18 months participation is required and participants must also complete the residential project section. This year 15 students from the graduating class achieved the Gold Award in addition to all their regular commitment with the IB diploma.

Speakers throughout the evening paid tribute to the unique characteristics of this class, to their true IB nature as individuals who: maturely challenge sources of power and knowledge, are passionately involved in their community, possess incredible creative talents, and achieve impressive academic results.

Dr. Edward Roy Krishnan, the evening’s guest speaker, combined a healthy dose of humour with three practical tips for the graduates to carry forward: to never stop learning, to know and accept your strengths and your weaknesses, and to invest in relationships.

Two students represented their class of 2011 in their acceptance speeches for IB student of 2011 and for Valedictorian. There are three criteria for the IB student of 2011: high grades for both achievement and effort, initiative in service and demonstrated care for others, and contribution to the school community. Emily Chen was this year’s recipient of the award, an exceptionally well-rounded student who has shown great commitment to service. She spoke eloquently of the importance of community and service, a speech which had many in tears.

The award of Valedictorian is awarded on the basis of outstanding academic achievement. Valedictorian Amal Dua had the audience in fits of laughter with his true-to-self speech in which he spoke of the great potential of this graduating class and reminded all to be thankful for the academic opportunities afforded them by NIST and their families.

The graduates moved their tassels from the left over to the right and Mr. Simon Leslie officially announced the Class of the 2011 as graduates of NIST. The evening of celebration continued as the graduates celebrated amongst their families, friends and teachers. It was a night to remember and we wish all 85 graduates the very best.

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