A few weeks ago Ariana Astrid, from an IB school in Peru, came to spend one day with 11th grade students and gave us some insight into the differences and similarities between our schools. Talking to Ariana at the end of the day, I could see that there were many differences she had picked up on, but also some similarities.

SIS is, without doubt, a melting pot of cultures, races and religions, and just within the small group of DP students you can see this diversity. Ariana, while her school has diversity as well, said that since she goes to a Catholic school does not have many religions around her. Talking more about the students, she was surprised to see just how small the grades were. She shared with us that her school has a much larger number of students and that the grades are bigger.

Speaking of the locations of the two schools, there were major differences. While her school is situated in Lima, Peru where the minimum temperatures are between 15 and 16 degrees, here in Sweden we must endure the hardships of dark and cold winters with constant temperatures below 4 degrees. And as for our campus, well, we do not really have one. SIS being in the city, is spread out between three buildings: Annex C, Annex B and the Main Building. Ariana’s school in Lima, while it is in the city as well, has a big campus in which all their buildings are situated.

The methods of teaching also had their similarities and differences. In fact, Ariana said that at SIS teachers seemed more flexible and relaxed with students; for example, allowing us to work outside the classroom. She also thought that they taught in an enthusiastic way and the students responded equally, showing that they were eager to learn. Ariana shared that at her school they focus on teaching information rather than introducing ‘TOK’ learning skills. Our school, on the other hand, is based on applying what we learn in the real world. 

Just like here at SIS, the MUN group is very active in her school where they participate in conferences with other schools. Her school also organises trips for the students every year, combining study trips to gather data with fun activities. And who could forget about CAS? Students taking part in the Diploma Program all around the world share the joy of having to think of many ideas to fulfil the requirements. Ariana’s school usually does one big project per class, although it may vary to doing multiple but smaller projects. Summers are also dedicated to CAS for many students; whether they are working together or alone, this is the time to get things done.

It was great to have Ariana spend the day at SIS and to be able to have her share her experience with us. All around the world students take the IB Diploma Program, but like everything else, there are differences and similarities anywhere you go. We hope to be able to do more things like this and meet more international students in the years to come.