BIS Abu Dhabi Graduate Interview Izzat

Izzat joined BIS Abu Dhabi on 4th September 2013 in Year 2. Eleven years later, he leaves the school having achieved an impressive 41 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, an exceptional accomplishment that reflects his dedication, resilience, and curiosity.

Reflecting on the moment he received his results, he shared: “I felt relieved after opening my result as I had worried throughout the summer over my conditional offer. I am glad that the work I’ve put in, as well the support I’ve gained from the people around me, paid off.”

This autumn, Izzat will begin studying Applied Mathematics at the University of Edinburgh, home to one of the strongest Schools of Informatics in the world. “I’ve chosen Edinburgh for its academic reputation, diverse student body, and strong research output. Fun fact: the university houses the fastest supercomputer in the UK (ARCHER2) and is planning to host one of the most sophisticated computer infrastructures in the world.”

His love of mathematics was nurtured at BIS Abu Dhabi, where he enjoyed both the rigour of the subject and the satisfaction of solving complex problems. “I thoroughly enjoy studying math and the problem-solving challenges that come with it. The skills I’ll gain in this course will allow me to apply mathematical methods across different fields, which is very exciting.”

Izzat credits his Math HL Internal Assessment as a pivotal moment in shaping his academic future. “It allowed me to explore the application of mathematical functions in one of my hobbies, and that experience really helped me decide what I wanted to pursue.”

As he prepares to move to the UK, he’s looking forward to something very different: “Having lived in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Abu Dhabi, I look forward to the colder weather in Edinburgh!”

In the future, he hopes to enter the finance or tech industry, where his analytical skills and mathematical mindset will be invaluable.

During his time at BIS Abu Dhabi, he was actively involved in a range of activities. He volunteered with the school nurse, took part in the Seeway Project in Tanzania, joined MedSoc, and helped organise the One People One Planet initiative. These experiences were both meaningful and impactful, allowing him to grow as a leader and collaborator.

One of his fondest memories from school? “Playing football during lunches and breaks with my friends in Year 6.”

And the thing he’ll miss most? Without hesitation: “The mocha from The Hub.”

Congratulations, Izzat! With your strong academic foundation, passion for mathematics, and international outlook, you’re more than ready to take on everything Edinburgh has to offer. We’re so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see how you make your mark on the world.