Panthers of ISKL #269: Shreyan B. (‘28) - The Leader
Throughout my life, I've been drawn to leadership positions in groups. Whenever I've had a group setting in a class where I was ahead or in a team sport, I always felt able to adapt to the people I was working with and use my knowledge to bring the group forward.
From Mumbai to Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Shreyan B. (‘28) has embraced diverse cultures and leadership roles at ISKL. Whether leading in MUN, captaining a sports team, or playing in a band, he thrives on bringing people together.
With a passion for finance, Shreyan aspires to study at Wharton and make a meaningful impact. But above all, he values the friendships and shared experiences that define his ISKL journey.
Here is Shreyan’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I was born in Mumbai, India, and my heritage is West Bengal. I've expatriated a little, from India to Singapore and now here. I studied in both British and American international schools before joining ISKL in Grade 7.
What were your first days of school like?
It was a euphoric moment for me to see the different cultures and communities coexisting and thriving here. I felt a sense of liberation and belonging to the culture created at ISKL.
The person who nominated you mentioned that you thrive in leadership roles at school. Could you share more about your leadership experiences and what you find most fulfilling about taking on those responsibilities?
Throughout my life, I've been drawn to leadership positions in groups. Whenever I've had a group setting in a class where I was ahead or in a team sport, I always felt able to adapt to the people I was working with and use my knowledge to bring the group forward.
Some interesting leadership positions I have taken include leading resolutions in MUN, taking a captain position in sports despite being less skilled than the others, being an unofficial leader in my band, and overall, those where I can teach my friends using the knowledge I've built. I don't view these responsibilities as burdens but rather as opportunities. When I can push a team to success by adapting to different people and bringing people together, it's a different feeling from winning alone.
Can you tell us more about your hobbies and interests?
My main hobbies lie in guitar, tennis, business, and finance. I've played guitar for about 8 years and play in a band with my classmates. Tennis is a sport that I was drawn to, even after trying basketball, swimming, and football; I enjoy both watching and playing the sport because of its elegance and adrenaline.
I've always liked business, as I wanted the opportunity to provide rather than consume. This led to my passion for finance and investment.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
I aspire to study at a top-ten university, namely Wharton at UPenn, and work in a top Investment Banking or Private Equity firm. My longer-term goal is to use my aptitude and passion for finance to develop and benefit all communities through investment and development.
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
I've been greatly influenced and inspired by my parents, where they came from, and their achievements. I've also been inspired by one of my closest friends, Sid('26), because we share many traits and aspirations.
Another thing that drives me is improving every day, getting one step closer to my goals, and always being able to create a better future for myself and those close to me.
Most memorable moment at ISKL?
Over almost three years at ISKL, I've done many different things, from representing Korea, Iran, and the UK in the MUN to being a Center Back in football, playing doubles tennis, and participating in math competitions. But one thing that will stay with me is my lunch table and how our group of friends has come together with new people, our disagreements, and our values.
What does "Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world" "mean to you?
For me, it defines first understanding who you are, using that to care for the people around you, and overall being able to benefit society.
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.