IB Classroom: How was your experience of the IB Diploma programme as a curriculum?
Kanika Gakhar: I thoroughly enjoyed the IB Diploma programme due to the balance it offers between practical assignments and theoretical studies. The IBDP promotes ‘out of the box’ thinking and encourages creativity and originality. Thus, it provides an appropriate platform for all-round development.

IB Classroom: In your view, what was the most challenging aspect of the IB programme?
Kanika Gakhar: IB requires students to strike a balance between exam preparation and assignments, community-service activities and innovative projects. Hence, the most challenging aspect is prioritising and time-management of the varied tasks involved in the IB programme. However, as one overcomes this challenge, he/she becomes prepared to face the challenges of the real world.

IB Classroom: What makes pursuing IB different at GIIS?
Kanika Gakhar: GIIS’ welcoming environment and friendly staff as well as faculty enables students to feel comfortable to explore their own capacity and capabilities. The teachers are very approachable and encourage students to stretch their boundaries. This helps IB students to explore, investigate and discover; skills which are essential for the various IB assignments and projects.

IB Classroom: How have your IB teachers at GIIS been instrumental in guiding you during the course of the programme?
Kanika Gakhar: Right from the very beginning, my teachers have always guided and helped me in making key decisions about various approaches to assignments and projects. This helped me outline the most appropriate skeleton structure for my essays and assignments, and gave me the confidence that I was on the right track.

IB Classroom: How was your experience in applying for university applications?
Kanika Gakhar: I am really glad I chose IB as it helped me build an impressive resume for my university applications. My participation in various CAS activities, innovative project ideas and personal initiatives gave me several valuable aspects to present in my application for university placements. Moreover, GIIS has provided me with various opportunities to participate in prestigious competitions and conventions, which also proved beneficial for my applications.

IB Classroom: What are your plans going forward post IB graduation?
Kanika Gakhar: I will pursue my undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University in the United States.

IB Classroom: What is the one advice you would like to share with students of the new IB Diploma batch or seek to join the programme in future?
Kanika Gakhar: I would advise aspiring IB students to focus on time management, and to adopt a balanced approach towards academics and co-curricular activities. Eventually, all factors contribute towards the final IB grades and hence it is necessary to plan and pay equal attention to all aspects of the IB Diploma programme right from the start.