Ryan G.: Achieved a Perfect Score in IBDP

Academic Strategy & Growth Support

Question 1: You achieved a full score in the IBDP this year, what pivotal study strategy and school resource had been useful?

Ryan G.: Some of the most pivotal study strategies I adopted were active recall, flashcards, and spaced repetition. These were especially useful for content-heavy subjects like Computer Science and Economics. I also used tools like Anki, Khan Academy, and Skibidi to ensure long-term retention and regularly quizzed myself using past paper questions. 

As for school resources, the DCSZ library and ManageBac online platform were invaluable. The library and the backrooms in my house provided a quiet and focused space for study, while ManageBac allowed me to track my Internal Assessments (IA), Extended Essay (EE), and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) progress efficiently. Most importantly, the one-on-one consultations with teachers helped clarify complex topics and polish my assessments.

Question 2: Which teachers had the greatest impact on your success journey in Dulwich? 

Several teachers at DCSZ were instrumental in my journey, but I would particularly like to thank Mr Lehman, Mr Sheen, and Mr Hope. Mr Lehman is the finest English teacher I have ever had; he consistently provided detailed feedback that refined my analytical skills, and his lessons were always engaging as they incorporated contemporary topics. Mr Sheen, my Physics teacher, encouraged me to think beyond the syllabus and invariably offered insightful responses to my queries. As my Extended Essay (EE) supervisor, his guidance proved pivotal in helping me achieve an A grade for my Physics EE. Mr Hope, the Head of Year 13, lightened the mood with his calm demeanour during registration. He helped alleviate the stress of the IB programme, and his genuine care for students was evident.

When I began the IB Diploma, I initially felt overwhelmed by the content and doubted my abilities. However, the Dulwich teachers reassured me with structured timelines and check-ins, and helped me develop the necessary skills to master the course, ultimately proving the IB to be manageable.

Question 3: An IBDP 45 points places you in the global top 0.1%. How did you balance 6 subjects +EE/TOK/CAS? What unique time-management tactics did you develop?

Balancing the IB's workload required careful planning and discipline. I used a digital calendar to map out weekly goals for each subject and tracked deadlines monthsin advance. I broke major tasks into manageable sub-tasks. For example, rather than saying 'Write Economics IA', I would split it into 'Refine Research Question', 'Analyse Fanum Tax Sources', etc. I also dedicated Sunday evenings to weekly reflection and planning, adjusting my priorities based on upcoming assessments. Most importantly, I maintained boundaries, allocating time for rest and social activities to avoid burnout. 

University Guidance & Personal Growth Breakthrough

Question 4: How did your experience in Dulwich College Suzhou fuel your UCSD (University of California San Diego) admission, what major will you pursue at UCSD and why? 

DCSZ provided a holistic environment where intellectual curiosity and global perspectives were constantly encouraged. My involvement in clubs, CAS initiatives, and the academic rigor of the IB diploma programme made my University of California, San Diego (UCSD) application well-rounded. At UCSD, I’ll be majoring in Computer Science. My passion for CS was cultivated in DCSZ’s labs and projects, where I could explore everything from AI to app development. The school’s guidance team also played a key role in my application; they helped me build a strong narrative through my personal statement while also recommending summer programs that aligned with my interests.

Question 5: What advice would you give to students studying the IBDP?

One essential tip: start early and seek help proactively. Use teacher feedback; go beyond grades and ask questions. For those targeting more selective universities, build a coherent narrative that connects your academic interests, extra curriculars, and personal values. Dulwich offers many avenues: use them to explore and articulate your passions clearly.

Beyond Perfect Scores, Personal Growth Matters More

"I'd like to emphasize that while achieving a 45 is a proud moment, what I value even more is the personal growth and community I experienced at Dulwich. The resilience I've developed and support I’ve received from friends have been far more rewarding than any grades I have gotten. 

Dulwich College Suzhou was the foundation where my academic ambition met meaningful mentorship and global citizenship."