Panthers of ISKL #255: Henry C.(‘28) – The Positive Panther
“I strive to be as optimistic and friendly as possible, making myself approachable to everyone. I encourage everyone to adopt a positive outlook on life and focus on its joys. It’s important to remember that even during difficult times, something positive will always follow.”
Meet Henry C. (’28), a Grade 9 student from Malaysia and China who has been a part of the ISKL community since Grade 5. Embracing life and making the most of every moment, he is known by his friends for his positivity and warmth.
Henry enjoys exploring hobbies like photography and badminton, dreaming up eco-friendly designs as a future architect, or just sharing a laugh over the best fried chicken ever.
Here is Henry’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I am Malaysian and Chinese; however, I am more towards Chinese due to my parents. I’ve lived in Malaysia my whole life, with occasional vacations back to China.
Before joining ISKL, I was a student at a British international school from Grade 1 until Grade 4. I then joined ISKL at the beginning of Grade 5. My parents had wanted me to experience a fair amount of both the British and North-American curriculum. After being exposed to both, I can certainly say that this curriculum is better due to self-control in one’s choices.
What were your first days of school like?
A couple of days after joining, I made my first friend due to our shared interests, as we liked the same author at the time. To this day, I remain friends with them and talk regularly. Slowly, I’ve branched out and made friends of many different backgrounds, allowing me to adapt to the school’s environment.
The person who nominated you for this article has praised your friendliness and optimism. How do you see these traits in yourself? What advice would you give others for maintaining an optimistic outlook?
I strive to be as optimistic and friendly as possible, making myself approachable to everyone. I encourage everyone to adopt a positive outlook on life and focus on its joys. It’s important to remember that even during difficult times, something positive will always follow.
Can you tell us more about your other hobbies and interests?
In my free time, I like to relax and play games with friends; however, if they aren’t free, I usually watch a show or play strategic games like chess. However, for some other hobbies, I only get a few chances to engage in badminton, photography, and photo editing. These activities are quite interesting as they are fun, but I need more chances to engage.
What are your aspirations and dreams for the future?
In the future, I aspire to be someone who can change the world. I want to make an impact and have a positive effect on society. I currently have my sights set on architecture as it solves many problems. I want to solve those problems with my future abilities by making homes more eco-friendly, affordable, and accessible. My current skill set fits my goal due to my (self-proclaimed) creativity and problem-solving skills.
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
I feel most inspired by my relatives, who I originally met as my parents’ friends. However, after some time had passed, I deepened my relationship with them, and they encouraged me to accomplish great things in the future. They are very supportive and continuously attempt to assist me in every way possible. I feel extremely fortunate and grateful to have them around. Throughout the time that I have known them, I have learned countless lessons ranging from manners at Chinese dinner parties to how to cook noodles from scratch. The main point of all these lessons was not only the skills but the experience.
Most memorable moment at ISKL?
Out of all my experiences, from speaking for INTERPOL at MUN to wearing self-drawn paper mustaches or eating a raw sago worm, I’ve made countless memories in my years at ISKL. With a wide array of experiences, I had originally thought it would be something more serious. However, my most memorable moment would be March 17, 2023. On that day, my lunch table group and I bought and ate the absolute best-fried chicken I have ever had in my entire life! It looked and smelt like a completely regular piece of fried chicken. However, the moment we bit into it, a sheer feeling of euphoria overwhelmed our taste buds. To this day, no fried chicken I have ever eaten has come close.
What does “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” “mean to you?
Understanding and caring for yourself and providing care to everyone can positively impact the world. It doesn’t have to be a massive impact; taking that time to improve or better the world would create a difference.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.