What was your experience like at TIS, and which moments or memories from your time here do you cherish the most?
Moving to TIS in Grade 7 and graduating in Grade 12 was a wonderful journey for me, one full of valuable learning and personal growth. I cherish the travel experiences during the Experience Week, and the exciting sports trips where I proudly represented the school. But honestly, being able to see my friends everyday and have those fun lunch breaks made my time at TIS truly special.
How did your education at TIS equip you for living and studying abroad in Australia?
TIS prepared me well for Australia. The Alberta curriculum matched the academic standards I needed, so I felt ready to tackle university challenges. The teachers were incredibly supportive, and encouraging, which really boosted my confidence.
One of the highlights was definitely the Experience Week programs. It opened my eyes to new perspectives and taught me how to become more adaptable. Plus, getting to know my classmates from different cultures and backgrounds taught me a lot about independence and flexibility. Those experiences have been invaluable for my life here in Australia!
What motivated you to study sports after graduating from TIS?
My love for sports has been a lifelong passion. Growing up with a personal trainer mom, and a dad who played rugby, I was always surrounded by sports. The energy, teamwork, and excitement that sports brought sparked my desire to make a meaningful contribution in sports. Whether it is working behind the scenes, coaching, managing events or athletes, I’ve seen firsthand how sports can positively impact lives and I want to be part of that.
How did your involvement in the Soccer and Touch Rugby teams at TIS fuel your passion for sports and shape your career aspirations?
Being on the soccer and touch rugby teams was a game changer for me. It wasn’t just about the competition; it was about the friendships and relationships formed on and off the field.
I developed my athletic skills and gained a deeper understanding of strategy, collaboration, and the joy of being part of a community. I learned how to collaborate with teammates, communicate effectively, and push each other to improve. These experiences helped me realize how much I love being involved in the sports community.
What skills or lessons learned from your time in these teams have been most valuable?
My time on those teams taught me so much about teamwork, communication and resilience. I learned to express my thoughts clearly while being open to others’ ideas. Facing tough losses showed me how to bounce back and keep pushing forward. Balancing sports with my studies forced me to refine my time management skills, which is a huge emphasis at TIS, specially for those of us who are “student-athletes.”
In what ways do you feel that your time at TIS has influenced your studies and your approach to sports?
This instilled in me a strong work ethic. I learned that dedication pays off, whether academically or in sports. The collaborative spirit I experienced helped me appreciate teamwork, which I value highly in both group school projects and athletic endeavours.
Plus, the resilience I gained through sports has helped me handle challenges and pressures effectively. With that, my passion for sports has also guided my academic interests that led me to explore subjects related to health, fitness, and sports management.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced so far, and how have you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced was moving away from home. It wasn't easy being away from family, but my past experiences of moving and living overseas helped ease the transition. To cope, I kept myself busy with university commitments, made new friends, and played rugby, which helped me build a sense of community. Thankfully, I am also able to visit my family frequently, which provides a much-needed connection to home.
What advice would you give to current TIS students who are considering studying abroad or pursuing a career in sports?
To current TIS students, my advice would be to embrace new experiences, build a strong network, and most importantly, be yourself (cheesy I know, but it is so true!). Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone: whether it is joining different sports teams or clubs or internships and volunteering, be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Personally, the fear of missing out or regretting not trying something can be far more daunting than the challenges of attempting it. Each experience you gather, good or bad, will broaden your horizons and help you discover your true passions.
Avoid falling into the trap of comparing your progress to others, as everyone’s journey is unique and what matters most is your personal growth and striving to improve. Take advantage of opportunities that are presented to you, as these chances can lead to invaluable learning and connections that enhance your journey.
Form genuine connections with coaches, teammates, and professionals; these relationships can open doors to possibilities you may not even realize. Engage in discussions and attend events; you never know where it might lead!
Be adventurous and embrace your individuality!
What is your role in the Bond University Filipino Association (BUFA), and how has it contributed to your experience at the university?
My role is engagement director on the executive team. I am responsible for creating content and managing social media engagement, as well as organizing social events. Being involved in BUFA has been incredibly fulfilling, as it allows me to connect with fellow Filipino students that come from far and wide, as well as spread our culture to others. It has helped me build a strong community and make friends, which made settling into university life much easier.
How do you stay connected to TIS while living in Australia, and what does the school mean to you now?
TIS holds a special place in my heart. I keep in touch with friends through social media and I always make it a point to head back to Macao every semester break. I’ll make sure to visit the school and catch up with my old teachers and staff!
The school means a lot to me now; it was a place of growth, learning and lifelong friendships. The values I picked up at TIS continue to shape my personal and professional journey. It has truly influenced my identity and aspirations, and I feel proud to be part of such a supportive community. The memories, lessons, and connections I made there have enriched my life, and I continually carry those experiences with me, everywhere I go.
Were there any teachers or staff at TIS who inspired you or played a key role in your journey?
I had so many inspiring teachers, but Mr. Masters, my Sports Performance teacher, really stood out when I was navigating my final years of school, and figuring out what I wanted to pursue for university. His enthusiasm for sports management fueled my passion and helped solidify my career path. He encouraged me to explore my potential, leaving a lasting impact on my journey.
What are your future goals in the field of sports, and how do you envision your career progressing?
I aim to manage high-performance athletes and work in sports marketing and event management. I want to help athletes reach their peak potential, both physically and mentally. I’m currently in my final year and plan to pursue a master’s in sports management. Playing rugby at university keeps me connected to the sport I love and opens up networking opportunities. I’m excited to gain hands-on experience through internships and volunteer roles.
What makes you proud to be a TIS alumni?
The supportive, enriching, and warm environment the school provided!
What word or phrase would you use to describe a TIS alumni?
Curious, resilient, and driven.
