From Mauritius to the World: Stella Shares Her IBDP Journey at Eastwood Global
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On a sunny afternoon, Eastwood Global welcomed students, parents, and educators from around the world to a special webinar featuring one of our most inspiring voices: Stella, a current IBDP Year 1 student calling in from Mauritius. The event was moderated by Helen Roowalla, Director of Admissions, joining from Switzerland, and included opening remarks from Dr. Michel Khoury, CEO and Head of the Eastwood Group of Schools, who dialed in from London, UK. This global panel reflected the truly international spirit of Eastwood Global’s learning community.
The session was also part of Stella’s own CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) project – an initiative that reflects the International Baccalaureate’s emphasis on student-led learning and purposeful action.
A Student of the World
At just 16 (soon to be 17), Stella has lived in eight countries, visited more than 25, and speaks multiple languages—including English, Czech, and Chinese. Her global upbringing and natural curiosity made her a perfect match for Eastwood’s online IBDP programme, which brings together students from across continents.
Stella: “This is actually the eighth country I’ve lived in. Each place brings something different – food, culture, rhythm of life. We always talk as a family about what we’d take from each country to create our ideal one.”
From Singapore’s international food scene to the rich history of Prague, Stella explained how these diverse experiences have shaped her identity—and now, her academic interests.
Life in the IBDP: Rigorous, Rewarding and Real
When asked about her experience as an IBDP student, Stella was refreshingly candid.
Stella: “It’s definitely rigorous. There’s a lot of work – but it’s also really flexible and encouraging. You’re taught how to think, not what to think. That really stood out to me.”
Stella is currently studying Higher Level subjects in Economics, English, and Psychology, and noted how the IBDP allows her to make interdisciplinary connections, especially with the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course.
Stella: “TOK makes you question everything – in a good way! I like that it encourages critical thinking and looking at things from different perspectives.”
The Online Learning Advantage
Studying at Eastwood Global means logging in from wherever home happens to be—and for Stella, that’s currently Mauritius. The flexibility of the program allows her to maintain consistency in her education, despite her family’s mobile lifestyle.
Stella: “It’s one of the best things about Eastwood. I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything by being online. The teachers are always available, and the global classroom gives you so many perspectives.”
She praised the online format for promoting independence, discipline, and time management—skills that are crucial for university and beyond.
Stella: “You have to learn how to manage your time. But I’ve also learned how to ask for help. That’s just as important.”
Learning Tools that Make a Difference
Stella shared how online resources have helped her thrive—particularly in subjects like Visual Arts and the sciences.
Stella: “Visual Arts is really personal for me. Even though it’s online, I get so much support from my teacher and classmates. I can share my progress digitally, get feedback and reflect on my creative choices just like in a physical classroom.”
She also highlighted the role of Eastwood's virtual science lab and digital textbooks in her learning experience.
Stella: “The virtual lab is super interactive. I can simulate experiments, make mistakes safely, and actually understand the process before trying anything hands-on. And the online textbooks are great. They’re interactive, up-to-date, and I can highlight or search through them instantly—it makes studying way easier.”
Passion Projects and CAS in Action
Beyond academics, Stella is a content creator, traveler, and tennis enthusiast. She runs a YouTube and Instagram account where she shares travel stories, study tips, and reflections on student life.
Stella: “People always found my lifestyle interesting, so I though t– why not share it? I also did a school project on procrastination, so I talk about that a lot too!”
This very webinar was part of her CAS portfolio, showcasing her ability to design meaningful experiences that connect learning to the real world.
A Message from Leadership
Dr. Michel Khoury opened the session by highlighting the school’s mission.
Dr. Khoury: “We are thrilled to offer a platform where students like Stella can thrive – academically, socially, and globally. It’s a joy to watch young people step into their potential and become agents of change in their own way.”
He also emphasized the role of the IBDP in building confidence, communication skills, and global awareness, saying “this is not just about passing exams – it’s about preparing for life.”
Learn More and Apply!
To close the session, Helen Roowalla highlighted Eastwood Global’s personalized approach to admissions. She emphasized that every applicant receives individual attention, beginning with a smooth online application and followed by a supportive application interview process.
If you're interested in learning more about the Eastwood Global IBDP programme and how to apply, click here to get started.
