Panthers of ISKL #356: Mikaela T. (‘26) - The Forward-Thinking Panther
ISKL has practically become a second home, since I have attended it for so long. I love the international community and how everyone is from different places and has different personalities. I have also met some amazing teachers and staff who have made classes so much fun.
Meet Mikaela T., a recent ISKL lifer and one of ISKL’s top International Baccalaureate (IB) scorers this year. Her strong academic results reflect her dedication to her studies, while her vision for a future in sustainability and social dynamics reflects her passion for making a difference. Beyond academics, Mikaela cherishes her longstanding friendships and her love of crafting.
Here is Mikaela’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I’ve attended ISKL ever since Prep Senior (lifer!), and I have lived in Kuala Lumpur for most of my life. I’m Malaysian-American, and I am going back to Seattle for university to study Applied Mathematics! Beyond STEM, I love crafting, crocheting/knitting, and athletics.
Congratulations on scoring 44 on the IB this academic year. Do you have any advice for our Class of 2027, who are currently pursuing the IB?
I never used to be somebody who diligently planned study blocks, but when it came to mocks and the final examination, making a schedule absolutely changed the game for me. Start reviewing early (more than two months before big exams) and do a little bit every day. This is especially true for languages. Personally, I downloaded the Anki Deck flashcard app and reviewed vocabulary for Chinese every day (almost!) for around 10~20 minutes. For Higher Level Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (HLAA), I worked through all the hardest questions in a course textbook, doing one topic a week. Study the subjects you prioritize first, and make sure to leave some ‘filler’ spaces in your schedule. Most of the time you won’t end up finishing everything, so it’s good to have extra time and days you can move unfinished tasks to. It makes it way less stressful as well.
Please share your experiences since graduating from ISKL and what you have been enjoying during the holiday break.
I’ve been traveling quite a bit, going to Japan and Korea with friends and family. My boyfriend also convinced me to (finally) watch the entire Marvel Infinity Saga with him, and I absolutely loved it. Beyond that, I’m currently knitting a sweater and keeping up my fitness in the gym.
What are your aspirations for study beyond ISKL? When and where will you be pursuing these goals?
I’m heading to the University of Washington (go Huskies!!) to study Applied Mathematics! I’m currently a Pre-Science Major, since I’ll need to apply for my Major later on, so I will be taking a variety of different courses, including a Psychology and Data Science course. I’m excited to attend university and become a well-rounded person, as I intend to explore different opportunities and keep on growing in things like my fitness and knitting.
At this stage, do you have any thoughts on your career pathway?
I’m not 100% sure what I want my future career to be, but I love problem-solving and definitely will explore STEM opportunities that will allow me to analyze some current issues in areas like sustainability and social dynamics. I also might look into Psychology or Physiology. At this point, I’m not afraid to explore different things!
From your earliest days at ISKL to graduation, you’ve grown up alongside many of the same friends. What makes those lifelong friendships special to you?
Friendships are undeniably one of the most important parts of our school experience. My lifelong friendships, whether they were my friends in Elementary School or in High School, are special to me because they played a huge role in shaping who I am today. Not only that, but being surrounded by both familiar and new faces made it such that I always felt a sense of comfort and belonging even when facing new challenges.
ISKL has been part of your life for so many years. What’s one thing about growing up here that you think you’ll carry with you wherever you go?
Attending an international school, I have been surrounded by people from all over the world, each bringing their own perspectives and cultures. Growing up in this environment has made me an extremely empathetic and open-minded person, and I think I’ll carry that with me wherever I go.
Looking back, how did the sense of 'care' you felt in Early Childhood shape the kind of leader you are now?
Over the years, I have learned to seek out challenges and be unafraid of making mistakes. This has shaped me into becoming someone who does well under pressure and someone who can bounce back from failures.
Who or what inspires and influences you?
It’s hard to name one person or thing that inspires me; in fact, I think everything you surround yourself with influences you in some way. My parents, of course, have played a huge role in inspiring me to work hard and hold myself to a high standard, as well as to treat others with respect. My best friends, from Elementary School until now, have also played a significant role in shaping who I am today. Lastly, simply the fact that I am privileged enough to live comfortably and try new things inspires me to live fully, since I know not everyone gets the chance to.
Which Panther superlatives best describe you and reflect your Panther spirit and personality?
I am the Most Onz Panther (Onz means nothing is impossible). I think a lot of things we do in life are really competitive, and it’s easy to be discouraged by people who are better than you or have more experience, but I believe with a strong mindset you can achieve almost anything you want at a very high level. And honestly, I think it’s pretty fun to challenge yourself to achieve amazing goals.
What is your most memorable moment at ISKL?
IASAS volleyball has truly given me some of the most memorable moments of my High School life. The two that stand out to me the most are winning Silver at IASAS, as well as losing the chance to win Silver the very next year. From an insane high to a crushing low, my team was with me through it all, and the love we shared is something I won’t ever forget.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you and what you liked most about the school?
ISKL has practically become a second home, since I have attended it for so long. I love the international community and how everyone is from different places and has different personalities. I have also met some amazing teachers and staff who have made classes so much fun. Most of all, I love the opportunities to travel (GAP, Malaysia Week, IASAS, etc.) that ISKL provides. I have made so many memories and friendships because of things like sports, clubs, and trips that are all well managed. I also met my boyfriend here, so that's a plus.
What does the ISKL vision ‘Know yourself, care for all and create a better world' mean to you?
To me, it embodies what the school tries to teach and is a valuable insight to keep in mind. Knowing yourself and your values is really important to have good self-esteem and mental health. Caring for all is something we should all do, and it really makes a huge difference when it comes to building community. Creating a better world is also something we all should strive to do; no matter what that might look like.
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.