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Elementary School

4th Grader Yunji Park, a talented young ISB artist, talks about her work and her passion for digital art.

What kind of art are you interested in?

I am interested in digital art because I can use various kinds of papers, brushes, colours, and cool effects easily.

Where do you go for inspiration for your artwork?

I get inspiration from my imagination, or from drawing videos I look at on YouTube.

Do you have any ambitions for the future, and do you think it will involve art?

My ambition is to become an artist, someone like an illustrator, and so I want to exhibit my artwork in art galleries and make my books with my own drawings.

Middle School

Abel is 14 years old and has been at ISB since 2nd grade. He started out in English Language Development and is now taking grade 9 Maths, PE, and his elective in English, Science, and Social Studies in French, while also learning Spanish.

Abel told us about the advantages and challenges of studying in both French and English at ISB. He highlights the pleasure of expanding his vocabulary and exploring new horizons while emphasising the importance of maintaining his native language. For Abel, French, and English serve different purposes, with French being associated with reading and imagination, and English with logical reasoning. Abel stresses the importance of speaking multiple languages for building relationships and understanding others better. 

Read Abel's full interview and watch his bilingual learning in action here.

High School

High School Entrepreneur, Krish Dhawan developped a mobile app, TinyBit, that provides a holistic solution for those with cognitive differences through a user-friendly interface. 

TinyBit provides a holistic solution for those with cognitive differences through a user- friendly interface with 9 tabs. The mood selector allows instant emotion communication and advice from the Guardian. Simplified alarm, calendar, and to-do list apps enhance navigation and connectivity. The text-to-speech translator aids vocally impaired users, while the weather tab recommends attire. The location tab ensures secure tracking for safety, with user-controlled sharing preferences. The video tab features community-driven content, sharing inspiring stories from individuals worldwide with cognitive abilities.

Read more about Tinybit and its geneses in Krish's interview here.

Elementary School

Skylar, Jolene, and Valentina are in Grade 6 and part of the ES Student Council at ISB. For Skylar, this is her first time in student leadership, while Jolene and Valentina have already been involved for several years. Together, they spoke about the importance of giving students a voice, building community, and inspiring others to take initiative.

They highlighted projects such as the International Week of Kindness, Bin for the Win, and Equity Movie Night, all designed to bring people together and promote ISB’s Big 4 values: Safety, Fairness, Kindness, and Respect.

Read the full interview here to discover how these young leaders are making a difference on campus.

High School

Carolina (known as Carol to close friends and family), is a G12 student with a passion for community engagement and with aspirations to study politics in order to make a difference.

Carolina was born and raised in Portugal, moved to Brussels two years ago, and she has been at ISB ever since. She loves to be surrounded by happiness, and considers that the recipe for happiness includes participating in an inclusive community that celebrates everyone’s best attributes.

Read more about Carolina in his interview here.

Family Association President

Once you join ISB you are automatically part of the Family Association (FA) – a diverse and welcoming group dedicated to building strong connections between families and school life. The FA’s mission is to help every family feel at home in the ISB community from the very start.

Together with our fantastic and dedicated team of parent volunteers, we organise a range of initiatives, such as social events, classes and workshops, volunteering opportunities, and communications that keep us connected both on and off campus throughout the year. You’ll hear from us regularly, and we warmly encourage you to get involved and create lasting memories that strengthen the spirit of our school community.

Personally, as a parent at ISB, I’ve always felt a great sense of community that is truly special, diverse, inclusive, and united by a shared commitment to our children’s growth. Through the Family Association, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with a wonderfully diverse group of people and share many meaningful learning experiences. It’s inspiring to be part of a school that not only values academic excellence but also fosters a global community in action.

Former ISB Parent

My family and I were part of ISB for three years, during which my children, Jenami and Nirek grew into independent thinkers, made wonderful friends, and embraced opportunities like international field trips and using their own MacBooks. For me ISB was just as rewarding, offering a warm, receptive community where I’ve contributed as an ISB DI STEM pioneer, ISBPlus Technology stimulator, and as the ES FA representative.

ISB not only met but exceeded our expectations, with its focus on the BIG 4 and Executive Functioning. The school’s personalised approach ensured that both my children’s unique strengths were nurtured through entrepreneurial challenges and through team-based learning.

To prospective parents, I’d say that ISB is truly “more than a school.” It develops strong academics, character, and community values for children, while also engaging parents in meaningful ways. ISB instills adaptability, confidence, and respect, which are qualities that last a lifetime.

New ECC Parent

We have been amazed by how quickly our 2,5 year old daughter has settled into ISB and the ECC. After only a few days, our impression was that she felt safe, secure and at ease.

The team has been doing a wonderful job, both when it comes to play and learning, and in making her feel welcome every day.

Class of 1993

Can you provide a short bio about yourself?

I have a bachelor’s degree in Dentistry from King's College London (2005), a master’s degree in Orthodontics from University of Barcelona (2013), and a second master’s degree in Orthodontics from University of Paris (2017). 

I am the founder of Turo Park Clinics in Barcelona, an international medical, dental, and aesthetics clinic providing international healthcare for expats. 

How would you summarise your overall experience at ISB in a few sentences?

My time at ISB set the groundwork for my entire career. 

How did your experience and learning at ISB prepare you for your career?

I think that growing up and learning in such a culturally versatile environment, where everyone was encouraged to be their best (be it at sports, art, music, or academics) has made me always want to strive for a work environment that offers those same values and characteristics.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your time at ISB?

All the school trips remain engraved in my memory, they were incredible - from the 5th grade trip to Florence to the ski trips to the French Alps in High School.

What advice would you give to our current or prospective students considering ISB?

This school is a game changer. There are not many international schools with the ideals, values, and academic standards that parallel those of ISB. This school will prepare you for your future and give you friends for life all over the globe.

Class of 2015

Can you provide a short bio about yourself?

After having graduated from medicine with summa cum laude in 2022, I am currently doing a PhD in transplant surgery. I work as an organ perfusionist and transplant coordinator, meaning that I put organs on pumps for testing and preservation prior to transplantation.

How would you summarise your overall experience at ISB in a few sentences?

ISB is a wonderful community that empowers students to explore their passions, with support from dedicated teachers and from fellow classmates. The rich array of extracurricular activities ensures a holistic development that reaches beyond the classroom. ISB's vibrant international culture weaves a diverse tapestry, introducing students to peers from various backgrounds and instilling values of understanding and respect from an early stage.

How did your experience and learning at ISB prepare you for your career?

Learning at ISB is tailored towards cultivating skills and analytical capacity, which is prioritised over rote memorisation. This approach allows for the ability to think critically, to solve problems, and to adapt to professional environments. It has helped me to stay sharp and to think on my feet while performing my duties as a doctor in the hospital and while doing research for my PhD.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your time at ISB?

Throughout my eleven years at ISB there have been many memorable moments – perhaps too many to mention here. Some moments that stood out to me were competing in running and tennis competitions across Europe, participating in The Hague International Model United Nations, and most importantly, having many international friends that you can meet again across the globe.

What advice would you give to our current or prospective students considering ISB?

Do what you enjoy, follow your dreams, and remember that hard work pays off in the end!

Class of 2021

Can you provide a short bio about yourself?

I am Parth Dhawan and I am 20 years old. I went to ISB from age 4 until I finished at 18. During this time, I made many great friends. I am now in my third year at the César Ritz College in Switzerland, where I am studying Hospitality and Culinary Arts. I have already completed two internships, and I am starting to look for a third. 

As an ISB alumnus, I always try to stop by and say hello whenever I visit Brussels.

How would you summarise your overall experience at ISB in a few sentences?

It was the best time ever! So many fun things happened. I had tons of cool teachers and made loads of friends at ISB. I've got all these awesome memories that I still really miss a bunch!

How did your experience and learning at ISB prepare you for your career?

I used to be in the cafeteria learning French and culinary skills at the same time. On Fridays, I used to help restock muffins and chips and cook burgers at the Raiders Café. It was a fun learning experience and great practice for the Cesar Ritz College in Switzerland.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your time at ISB?

During my time at ISB, I did running, shot put, long jump, softball throw, and even horseback riding for the Special Olympics. In total, I won three bronze medals, two silver medals, and a gold medal! The Raiders supported me all the way! Go Raiders Go!

I also played the piano for many years and got the chance to play in a concert in front of everyone. 

What advice would you give to our current or prospective students considering ISB?

I would tell them that ISB is a really fun and caring environment, and I would encourage people to get involved with the community.

Class of 1993

Can you provide a short bio about yourself?

I was born in New York City, lived in Tokyo between 1977 and 1980, and in Brussels from 1980 to 1993. I attended ISB from grade 1 to grade 12, between 1981 and 1993. Following my graduation, I attended Boston University between 1993 and 1997. My older sister, Samantha Fox Bender, also attended ISB and graduated in 1990. My mother, Iris, was a substitute English teacher, edited the PTA Newsletter, and then worked in the Chateau from 1989 to 1996. My dad, Jonathan, was on the ISB Board of Trustees from 1989 to 1996.

What can you tell us about your life after graduation from ISB?

I attended Boston University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Film & Television Production, with a minor in 20th Century History (inspired by the teachings of the great Colin Nimmons) in 1997. After my graduation from Boston University, I moved home to New York and began working in the TV industry.

I started my current job at CBS News in 2008. I spent 11 years on the CBS Evening News, 8 as Supervising Editor. While there I was fortunate enough to win my first Emmy for a series of stories about a group of troubled kids being given a second chance at success.

In 2019, I moved to CBS Saturday Morning, a weekly news/magazine style show where I have been producing and editing feature pieces on everything from author profiles to adventures in our National Parks, advances in alternative energy and other environmental stories, famous chefs, entertainment legends, and a wide variety of musical artists.

In 2020, at the peak of the pandemic, I was asked to contribute to a special unit producing a documentary set in the busiest hospital in the country as they fought to keep themselves and their patients alive. “Bravery and Hope: 7 Days on the Front Lines” was an intense experience I don’t hope to repeat anytime soon. The documentary won the Emmy for Best News Special, and my editing team won a second for Best Editing.

How would you summarise your overall experience at ISB in a few sentences?

As a student, ISB was just "school." It was where I got up and went to every day. I went to class, learned, went on field trips, played sports, did theatre, prepared for college. I always loved doing it (as much as any kid loves going to school), but I didn't realise at the time how unique and rewarding those experiences would be. Looking back, simply put, ISB represents what is possible in a world that often makes you feel like hope is lost. It's a place where you check your prejudices at the door, and enjoy spending time with and learning about people from all cultures, faiths, nationalities, without any of the negative politics that dominate the adult world. There is a lot of hate in the world, and people aren't born hating - they learn it. But they most certainly do not learn it at ISB.

How did your experience and learning at ISB prepare you for your career?

I work in television post-production as a video editor and producer. At the time, shooting and editing videos was not part of the normal high school curriculum the way it is today. So while I can't say that any one program at ISB prepared me for my career from a technical sense, there is no question it gave me a leg up simply by teaching and instilling in me the ability to interact with so many different types of people. Beyond that, the course work and the experiences that came along with it – studying World War II and visiting Anne Frank's House; studying the Roman Empire and seeing real ruins; studying the Renaissance and standing in the same room as the works of Michelangelo – those are experiences that cannot be beat.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your time at ISB?

I spent 12 years at ISB. I couldn't even begin to boil down my most memorable experiences to just one or two. But if I had to say anything, it would be the friendships. The number of former classmates I'm still in touch with regularly and see several times a year, despite our graduating class being scattered around the world, speaks to the special bond that comes from being an International School kid. From my time there, the sports and theatre experiences stick out more than anything else. ISB has always been at the forefront of the international school community when it came to extracurricular activities. Our theatre productions were always second to none, and where else can you hop over to Paris for a quick overnight trip to play a couple of games?

What advice would you give to our current or prospective students considering ISB?

My advice is that you will never get another chance like this in your life. Soak it up. Go everywhere. See everything. Try all the foods. ISB is a great place to spend your time, and you'll never regret it.

Class of 2006

Can you provide a short bio about yourself?

I am currently serving as the Associate Head Coach and Running Back coach at the University of South Florida. I am heading into my 14th year of coaching and 12th year at the collegiate level. Previously, I was part of the 2014 College Football National Championship.

How would you summarise your overall experience at ISB in a few sentences?

It is very difficult to do in just a few sentences, but I will give it a try. I arrived at ISB in 1999 and remained there until 2004. The five year period I spent on campus was the most impactful of my life to date. Because of people like Dr. Crowley, Mme. Frankard, and Coach Rob Stewart, I became an educator and a coach. By no means was my time there easy, as I went through numerous difficult moments – some of which were created by myself. However, ISB prepared me to think for myself, to stand up for what I believe, and most importantly, it taught me how to deal with people of all backgrounds. I would not be the man I am today, were it not for my time at ISB.

How did your experience and learning at ISB prepare you for your career?

While the curriculum was rigorous, it was also very influential. The ISB learning experience encouraged you to step out of your comfort zone, so that you would be able to grow as a person. You constantly had to be at your best, but when you weren’t performing up to standard, the teachers and the administration did not allow you to fail. They pushed you, in every way a young adult could be pushed, to be successful in everything that you do. I became a perfectionist because of my time there. The best way I can explain it is that I was a young adult, who was trying to figure out life.  The way the curriculum was implemented and the experiences that were provided, showed me how to streamline what was in my head into something that could grow without limits.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your time at ISB?

The trip we took in 8th Grade to Normandy. I hated history and anything to do with it prior to that. Since then, I started watching documentaries for fun and later decided to become a history teacher myself. These experiences are very rare. For example, schools in the U.S. only get to go on one-day field trips to museums about WWII, whereas at ISB, we went to Pointe du Hoc, and I stood inside of a bunker. That was incredible!

Another memorable experience was winning the 2002 European Football Championship. Also, the International Festival was always incredible.

What advice would you give to our current or prospective students considering ISB?

My advice for current students is that – even though it may seem like the teachers are all over you, and it may feel never ending, when you will get older, you will look back on this time as the best years of your young adult life. The time spent at ISB has literally changed my life.

Class of 1999

Can you provide a short bio about yourself?

I am the proud mother of three children – Charles (17), Maxime (14), and Alice (8). My husband Xavier and I live in Brussels (very close to ISB actually!). I work as a certified coach (ICF), and strategic communication and change management advisor (freelance).

How would you summarise your overall experience at ISB in a few sentences?

I had two extraordinary years at ISB. I came from the Belgian system, which made me lose my self-confidence. After joining ISB, I started to dare to believe in myself for the first time. I even decided to take the IB Diploma English A, even though English was not my mother tongue. I worked very hard and I had to learn to study differently. I learned to develop a critical mind and to work on my own with the support of extraordinary teaching staff. 

Most importantly, I created unique friendships that are still with me 25 years later. In fact, we are celebrating our 25th year of graduation this June and I can't wait to see everyone again!

How did your experience and learning at ISB prepare you for your career?

My two years at ISB are forever etched in my mind. It offered me an early opportunity to spend time with people of different nationalities and cultures. My speech and debate classes sparked my passion for public speaking, which I now teach. I love ISB’s approach to enable people to be the best they can be, rather than always seeing what needs to be improved. ISB has enabled me to develop a critical mind, not to judge others but to learn from them, and to find resources within myself to always move forward. A school of life and a school for life.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your time at ISB?

There were so many unique moments. Just hanging out with friends from so many nationalities was a gift for life. I also remember the theatre shows, such as Fiddler on the Roof (which I still know by heart), and the speech and debate contests. I will never forget Mr. Nimmons' Theory of Knowledge classes. His sense of humour and passion for the topic allowed us to develop our critical mindset. I also very much enjoyed Mrs. Cowie's IB anthropology classes. Mr. Watson's history class impacted me so much that I decided to study International Affairs and Politics thanks to his teachings. Special kudos also to Mrs. Baudoux, who taught me how to put things in a nutshell (I still have the one she gave me!) and was a great support for me.

What advice would you give to our current or prospective students considering ISB?

Don't hesitate for a second. At ISB, you have the chance to evolve in a multicultural environment and to study at a school where student development and well-being are not just words – they are part of the school's DNA.