TFS - Canada's International School

SCHOLARSHIP REPORT I've tried many new things at TFS, but joining the school band and learning to play the alto saxophone was a highlight. It gave me the chance to be part of a team while developing my musical skills. The hardest part was staying committed to practicing when I was busy, but I overcame that challenge by sticking to a routine and leaning on the support of my friends and teachers. My favourite class was physics. I loved learning how motion, forces and energy explain the world around us, and it's a major reason why I hope to study engineering one day. My music teacher also had a big impact on me. Joining the band wasn't always easy, but he encouraged me to keep trying and was always there when I needed extra support. For me, an international perspective isn't just something I learn about at school; it's something I grew up with. Both of my parents are immigrants, and they've given me a way of seeing the world that I'm incredibly grateful for. As I think about the future, I know that challenges like climate change, infrastructure and access to technology are global issues, and being able to work across cultures is a skill I've developed at TFS. My favourite memory this year was travelling to Niagara Falls with the Senior Band for Nationals. Winning a silver medal and celebrating together by taking a trip beneath the falls reminded me how much I care about the people I've gotten to know and how some of the best parts of school happen outside the classroom. — Level III Student, enrolled 2022 My favourite subject was English. Mr. Campbell made every class entertaining while encouraging us to think more seriously about how literature connects to larger concepts like ambition, power, regret, leadership and human behaviour. One of my favourite moments was participating in the Cougars' Den business competition, because it combined my interests in business, leadership, strategy and entrepreneurship. Through the experience, I discovered that I enjoy thinking quickly, answering questions and defending ideas under pressure. To me, an international perspective means understanding the world beyond one country, culture or point of view. It means studying history, politics and language in ways that help us understand how different societies interact. My own background reflects that perspective—I am half Iranian, one-quarter Scottish and one-quarter Austrian. I'm proud to speak English, French and Persian, and I'm currently learning Spanish. Since receiving this scholarship, I've accessed new opportunities, new friendships and a community that encourages me to challenge myself. TFS has strengthened my academic leadership and communication skills while building my confidence. After I graduate, I hope to study commerce at Queen's University. My biggest accomplishment this year was completing my Personal Project. It demanded a great deal of time and dedication, but with the guidance of my mentor, I was able to create something I was truly proud of. One teacher who made an impact on me was my German teacher, Frau Koenig, who provided extra support sessions whenever I needed help. Another highlight of the year was taking part in the National French poetry competition, Les Voix de la Poésie. It was well outside my comfort zone, and I was nervous to recite my poem in front of judges, teachers and my peers. With practice and the encouragement of my French teacher, M. Diallo, I tied for first place alongside two other TFS students. The experience taught me that even though public speaking can be intimidating, I can overcome that fear with preparation and the support of those around me. The access to resources at TFS has also been incredible. Whether I required technical materials like LEDs or wires for a project, I always had what I needed to succeed. Coming from an international background, I value having a global perspective and hope to bring that mindset into my future. After graduating from TFS, I plan to study architecture or interior design and eventually study abroad in France or Spain. — Level III Student, enrolled 2023 — Level I Student, enrolled 2024 5

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