Panthers of ISKL #354: Eunsang P. (‘26) - The Determined Panther
I think I came to believe that effort is what matters most, with which nothing is impossible.
Meet Eunsang P. (‘26), whose dedication and commitment to his academic studies have earned him recognition as one of ISKL’s highest International Baccalaureate scorers this year. Embodying the spirit of an Onz Panther, he has shown that with determination and resilience, nothing is impossible. Eunsang reflects on his journey at ISKL, looks forward to his future, and shares valuable advice for fellow students. He is confident that if they believe in their potential, they will achieve goals tomorrow that they may not believe are possible today.
Here is Eunsang’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I’m from South Korea, though I don’t remember living there much. I’ve had the privilege of studying around the world: in Germany, China, and Malaysia. I moved to Kuala Lumpur and joined the ISKL community in 2022, graduating Middle School just a few months later.
Congratulations on scoring 44 on the International Baccalaureate this academic year. Do you have any advice for our Class of 2027, who are currently pursuing the IB?
Although the International Baccalaureate (IB) has taught me many things, perhaps the most memorable was about the vastness of the online community and, with it, its resources. There are an almost infinite number of materials online, outside of past papers and practice questions. You can even look into graded papers or examined research work to familiarize yourself with the IB’s grading system. In fact, when I struggled with the Extended Essay, I focused on looking through all relevant posts online, which absolutely helped me tackle that obstacle. Beyond academics, I believe there are equally many resources regarding timing, balance, and other needs that will help you succeed!
Another piece of advice would be this: take rest seriously! When I get tired, I personally enjoy walking a little and going for a water break. Although it might seem very insignificant, I personally find these few seconds very energizing. Even if it isn’t a simple walk, sitting down away from my table helps me recharge. Solving a difficult problem or undergoing a lengthy assignment can really be stressful, and I think pausing for a few minutes can be more beneficial than not stopping at all.
Please share your experiences since graduating from ISKL and what you have been enjoying during the holiday break.
After graduation, I returned to Korea to meet friends and family before university. After weeks of doing absolutely nothing (which I definitely needed), I began searching for and buying things I would need in university.
What do you hope to pursue after ISKL?
Through my time at ISKL, I’ve developed a love for computer science, so naturally, my future aspirations align with this interest. I will continue to explore my passion for computer science at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, and possibly extend it elsewhere.
At this stage, do you have any thoughts on your career pathway?
I’ve heard exciting stories about the booming startup culture in Singapore, so maybe I’ll find some peers to jump in with!
Who or what inspires and influences you?
I am a fanatic for TV shows, especially K-dramas. No matter how “fake” they are, I think fictional characters have always inspired me a lot. I’m always moved by how these characters persevere through immense challenges and end their story as winners. When our passions match (mine and the characters’), I am helplessly inspired by the characters’ small victories.
Which Panther superlative best describes you and reflects your Panther spirit and personality?
I am the Most Onz Panther (Onz means nothing is impossible) as I think I came to believe that effort is what matters most, with which nothing is impossible. I have memories of a particular subject where I sighed at the end of every assessment, promising myself that I would just “do better next time.” Somehow, I ended my IB journey surprised to find that this subject had become my particular strength. Nothing is impossible!
What is your most memorable moment at ISKL?
Looking back, I remember my first and last day at ISKL, as well as some failures and successes. I think the most memorable, even so, were the few hours before Grade 11 mock examinations. Perhaps because these were our first full International Baccalaureate-like examinations, I remember everyone being nervous and arriving early to the library for a last-minute review. I remember this moment distinctly not only because of the anxiety, but because I recall seeing everyone gathered, asking and answering questions, calming others, and going through special updates they discovered about the tested subjects.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you and what you liked most about the school?
I Suka (Like) ISKL because it’s where I’ve found the community I feel like I belong to most. Through classes, breaks, lunch, and trips, I found my closest friends and peers that I will forever remember. ISKL has also offered me various opportunities, including collaboration, leadership, perseverance, and many more, which I will continue to take advantage of moving forward. I don’t think I can ever forget the memories I made in school.
What does the ISKL vision ‘Know yourself, care for all and create a better world” mean to you?
To me, “Know yourself, care for all and create a better world” reads like a sequence and almost a cause-and-effect vision. Only after discovering your own character and interests can you learn how to help others or what help you can offer. Then, caring for others will progressively create a better world for yourself and everyone else!
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.