Panthers of ISKL #313: Reshmaa M.L. (‘29) - The Bubbly Panther
If I were to advise someone applying for the scholarship, I would say that you should never be afraid to be yourself. Be genuine about your passions and how you can contribute to the school. It's not only about your grades; it's also about your attitude, wisdom, and willingness to learn. At the end of the day, you are here to be YOU.
Meet Reshmaa M.L. (‘29), an ISKL Grade 9 Pathways Scholar who joined ISKL in August 2025. Describing herself as both talkative and bubbly, Reshmaa was pleased to be familiar with many faces at ISKL before she started, but is now relishing the many more friends she is making within the community.
Reshmaa was encouraged to join ISKL for an international experience, believing that the school would guide her towards becoming a more successful person, a platform that would enable her to discover more about herself and grow.
Here is Reshmaa’s story
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I am from the Class of ‘29 and come from Kulai, Johor, from a family of five. I have two brothers and now a sister-in-law. I am a Northern Indian, and before joining ISKL, I studied at SMK Bandar Putra 2, where I have lived my whole life.
I would describe myself as a talkative and bubbly person who enjoys connecting with others. I speak three languages fluently: English, Bahasa Melayu, and Hindi, as Hindi is my mother tongue. In my free time, I love watching movies and listening to music.
What encouraged you to join ISKL as a Pathways Scholar? What advice would you give someone thinking about applying for the scholarship?
Something that encouraged me to join ISKL is the opportunity to experience an international environment, as well as being in a great place that will guide me towards becoming a successful person. I believe that ISKL is not only a platform to grow and shape yourself, but also a place to discover new things about yourself.
If I were to advise someone applying for the scholarship, you should never be afraid to be yourself. That's what is most important; don't be afraid to show who you are. Be genuine about your passions and how you can contribute to the school. It's not only about your grades; it's also about your attitude, wisdom, and willingness to learn. At the end of the day, you are here to be YOU.
How has the transition into ISKL been for you?
It has been amazing! Luckily, I knew some people at ISKL before attending, so it was nice to know that at least there would be familiar faces.
In the classroom, I've made friends with almost everyone; teachers and students have been really kind to me and welcomed me warmly into ISKL. It is really nice to know that I am a part of such a kind and loving community.
I would say that it was quite hard and challenging at the beginning. I had quite the culture shock here at first! But with time, things have eventually gotten better. Everyone has been really friendly and kind, helping me along the way. I have also made friends from all over the world.
Please share with us your interests and successes in these areas. What inspires you most, and what would you consider to be your aptitude?
I am passionate about movies, music, and law. All these things let me explore creativity and storytelling. These interests have also strengthened my communication skills, as I enjoy sharing ideas and connecting with others.
In school, I actively participate in class and build friendships, which reflects my talkative and bubbly nature. I am most inspired by people who work hard to overcome challenges while staying positive. I believe my greatest aptitude is in communication. I find it natural to connect with others and express myself clearly.
What motivates you to succeed in this field?
I’m motivated because I enjoy being creative and I want to keep improving myself. The idea that my effort now will help me succeed in the future really drives me. This is because at the end of the day, you are here for yourself, not for anyone else.
Who are your role models? And who influences you?
My role models are hardworking, positive people who never give up when facing challenges, as well as those who make me a better person. I’m most influenced by those around me who encourage me to improve and remind me to stay focused on my goals.
Do you participate in any extra-curricular activities?
Yes, I do. I recently joined the Debate Club because it aligns with my interests, and as a talkative person, it’s the perfect place for me to express myself.
I have also tried to pursue filmmaking because I love watching films, and getting the opportunity to learn how to make one makes me feel lucky. I have also joined Panther Media because I want to explore more sides of myself and try new things.
What are your thoughts on your future career path and future goals?
I’m not fully sure of my exact career yet, but I know I want to do something that uses my creativity and communication skills. My goal is to keep learning, growing, and working towards becoming successful while making a positive impact. I believe you should live only for what's best for you and never be afraid to be yourself.
What is your most memorable moment at ISKL so far?
My most memorable moment at ISKL was when my friend asked me to join his IASAS film crew because they needed more members to make a film. We went to an abandoned house because they wanted to film a horror movie. I was told to act in that film, and we had so much fun filming all day. I met new people and made more friends. It was definitely scary at first, since it was an abandoned house, but even more hilarious was how we got scared of almost everything there. It was a new experience for me, but very memorable.
Share which Panther superlative best describes you and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I would say that I am the Most Baik Panther (Baik means kindhearted) because I believe that being kind in life is really important. That is also why I try my best to be very kind, as spreading love and kindness is the best thing to do. Simple acts of kindness can help someone so much. I try to make friends as much as possible, as well as spread love.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you.
ISKL is special to me because it is my first-ever international school. It is also my first and biggest achievement. I would have never thought I would be able to get a scholarship to one of the biggest schools in Malaysia!! Moreover, I get to be a part of a diverse community and learn so much about the world.
I Suka (Like) ISKL because ….
I Suka ISKL because it’s a place where I can be myself. The teachers are kind, my friends make every day exciting, and there’s always something new to learn or try. It feels like a second home where I’m happy and supported.
What does the ISKL vision ‘Know yourself, care for all and create a better world” mean to you?
I believe this vision allows you to find yourself, discover yourself, and become a better person. Moreover, it shows that you should be kind and have an open heart, as well as try your best to make someone smile. Additionally, it shows how the version of yourself you become has a positive impact on the world and the people around you.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always has an anecdote to tell, loves to share some insights into their passions and interests, 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.