Federico De Vecchi, Class of 2016, Gubei Campus 

My name is Federico, I’m Italian, and I attended YCIS for two years. Although I had an interest in biochemistry before I came to YCIS, my interest was keenly developed during my time at the school. More precisely, Ms Van Heerden, my chemistry teacher, inspired and encouraged me and expanded my knowledge such that I knew that the subject was what I wanted to study in university.

During my time at YCIS I was involved in a lot of music-related activities. I performed in several events, including an International Women’s Association (IWA) charity concert, as well as the annual Battle of the Bands at the Gubei Campus. However, I most liked the charity activities I participated in, particularly the Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS) project I completed with my friends Aviv and Keita. Together, we decided to raise money for a company that I had worked for the previous summer, a volunteer company that builds houses for those in need in Peru. For me, it was especially meaningful because I had an emotional connection to the charity. We decided to raise money through an activity called “penny wars”, and we also planned a student-run concert to raise additional funds.

In thinking about my experience at YCIS, I believe the school has prepared me for university both on the academic and social fronts. On the academic front, I feel very knowledgeable, thanks to my teachers. On the social front, I think that I will be able to find friends anywhere because I already have friends from all over the world from YCIS.