Panthers of ISKL #295: H’sia J. (‘27) - The Caring Panther
I really care about the environment and people around me. I love doing things for the environment, animals, or people; I don’t expect anything in return, but it brings me a great deal of joy and happiness, which in turn creates a lot of meaning in my life.
Meet H’sia J. (‘27), a Third Culture Kid with Korean and American heritage, who moved from South Korea to ISKL in Grade 9. Inspired by her teacher-parents, she quickly became a dedicated member of the ISKL community, leading the PAWS club and serving on the Panther Council.
A two-year varsity athlete in volleyball, basketball, and track, her commitment to hard work and kindness continues to define her journey.
Here is H’sia’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself? What grade did you join ISKL in?
My name is H’sia, and my mom is Korean and my dad is American. I am in Grade 11, having joined in Grade 9, as my parents got a job at ISKL, where both of them are teachers. Before this, I was in South Korea, where I have lived my whole life, so ISKL is my first move and only my second school.
Please describe what co-curricular activities you take part in at ISKL.
I am the leader of the PAWS club, which volunteers at the animal shelter and helps protect animal rights. I am also a member of the Panther Council, which organizes fun activities and athletic events and promotes them on social media. I have also been a member of the Thespian Society in the past and have appeared in a play. I have been in Shrek and The Great Gatsby, where I was mostly a background character. I have also participated in numerous sports at ISKL, including Varsity Volleyball, Basketball, and Track, for two years (Grade 9 and 10). Due to the sports I participate in, I have attended many IASAS events. Unfortunately, over this June/July break (and during my transition between Grade 10 and 11), I tore my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus. Because of this, I won’t be able to participate in all the activities I have been doing, such as playing and sports, this year.
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
My parents, who are both teachers at ISKL, Brent and GJ Johnson, have influenced and inspired me the most. They are both active in the ISKL, with my dad coaching Volleyball and Basketball, and my mom being the teacher leader of the PAWS club. They taught me to work hard, have manners, and be resilient. I still hold true to those values and apply them every day. I am really grateful for my parents.
What are your plans after you graduate from ISKL?
I am still not sure about my plans after ISKL, but my goal is to go to university in the United States and get into a school where I am able to play for the Volleyball team. Additionally, I would love to secure a job or internship at an animal shelter or a reputable organization, such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) or the United Nations, to contribute to policy changes that benefit the environment and animals. Other than this, my plans for after ISKL are still very open, but I love traveling, so I would love to visit as many countries as well.
Which Panther are you?
🐾 The Most Baik Panther – (Baik means kindhearted)
Share why you chose this superlative and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I’m the (Most Baik Panther) because I really care about the environment and people around me. I love doing things for the environment, animals, or people; I don’t expect anything in return, but it gives me lots of joy and happiness, which creates lots of meaning in my life.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you:
I Suka (Like) ISKL because there are so many opportunities here. I came from a smaller school in Korea with only 400 students, so there were fewer options. When I came to ISKL, I realized that there were so many possibilities. There are so many clubs, sports, and classes that you can join that I never even knew that you could be a part of. Adding to this, if it didn’t seem like enough, ISKL gives you the option to create your own club and do what you love. In doing this, there is so much support from teachers and staff here.
Everyone wants what is best for you. With counselors, supportive teachers, and Panther Block sessions available, you can receive support throughout the day, and you'll find an overall very caring community.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member 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.