Leaver interview | Doreen, Class of 2023

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The 2022-23 academic year is fast coming to a close. Another class of Wellingtonians will soon go out into the world to accomplish great things. Until then, some of our 2023 Leavers are reflecting on their time at Wellington and what lies on the road ahead after graduation.  

Today, Doreen looks back on a Wellington journey that began for her in year 8. She hit some headwinds in the beginning. But she persevered and soon discovered endless opportunities for personal growth. With the support of her teachers, it was not long before Doreen found herself flourishing both as an artist and an academic, founding rock bands and tackling tough subject matter for her IB studies. And along the way, she has made some lifelong friends.

Challenges met,

friendships forged

“I started at Wellington as a year 8 pupil. I transferred from a local school, and I did not speak much English. So, my first impression of Wellington was that life here was going to be challenging. But everyone was so friendly. Walking through the halls, I remember seeing other pupils waving at me just because I was new. It just felt very heartwarming.”

Finding a home

away from home

“I really love my house, Hill. When I was assigned to it, it was a brand-new house, so it was very small, and we all got to know each other really well. I was pretty timid back then, but I gradually built connections with my housemates and really started to flourish. I started band called the Hill Band. By year 12, I even applied to be head of house. I have always felt a strong connection with Hill House and my housemates. Whether it was house time or house activities, we would always interact with each other more. You get to meet so many more people. And I have a lot of lifelong friends from different year groups that I will definitely keep in touch with after I leave Wellington. The house system really is something special. It gives you something you cannot get in your classes alone.”

Personal growth 

that builds self-confidence 

“Wellington has truly shaped me to become a better student of science. I came here with no basic knowledge in science. I struggled quite a lot in the beginning. My test scores were not great. But my grades kept improving, and I hit my stride by the time I started my IGCSEs. It also helped me become a better performer. I have performing arts teachers like Dr Tkachenko, Mr Larsen-Disney, and Ms Mitford to thank for this. Even though I am not doing IB music, I was still able to join the school's big band and take part in school concert, play a role in our Senior School musicals and doing other things that I love besides my studies. So, Wellington has made me an even more well-rounded person. I feel unique and more confident in who I am.”

Support for success 

“Wellington just lets you be you. You can do what you want, and the teachers will support you in achieving your goals. For instance, when I was doing my extended essay in chemistry, I was interested in the field of pharmacology, and Mr Lam, my supervisor, gave me all the advice and support that I needed to complete this important part of the IB programme.”

Lifelong memories

for a lifelong journey 

“I have so many great Wellington memories. In year 10, I started a girl band with four of my other classmates. That was when I first got exposed to being in an ensemble. I learned more about music, and I got to jam with my friends. We also performed in a lot of different places, often representing the College. That kind of sparked a deep journey into music for me. I went on to explore more about rock bands. I learned to play more instruments and about music production. For me, that is where my journey started.”

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