Arja Crysler and Nolan DeLuca are two high school students who are making waves with their impressive academic achievements. They are not your typical teens; they are part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, a rigorous two-year university preparatory course that challenges them to think critically and develop global perspectives. This program, offered at Korah Collegiate, is a testament to their dedication and intellectual prowess.
What makes their journey even more remarkable is the diverse range of interests and passions they bring to the table. Crysler, a Grade 12 student, has a penchant for biomedical mechanical engineering. She envisions herself creating life-changing medical devices, such as pacemakers and diabetic instruments. Her research skills and critical thinking abilities are evident in her IB work, where she dissected the myth of Magda Goebbels, the ideal woman in Nazi Germany, revealing the regime's propaganda. Crysler's academic prowess is further showcased through her advanced history studies, where she delves into topics like the Mexican Revolution and the Cold War.
DeLuca, a Grade 11 student, has a different but equally impressive path ahead. He is drawn to the legal field, with a particular interest in corporate or criminal law. His IB credits will count for one year of university credits, giving him a head start in his academic journey. DeLuca's leadership skills are evident in his involvement with the Korah basketball and football teams, as well as his community coaching experience. He understands the challenges faced by youth in today's world, especially regarding stress and social media distractions, and aims to guide young people to handle adversity effectively.
Both students are actively involved in extracurricular activities, showcasing their commitment to a well-rounded education. Crysler's dedication to the school's Relay for Life, Link Crew, and multicultural club, along with her part-time jobs and volunteer work, demonstrates her community spirit and time management skills. DeLuca's multi-sport athleticism and leadership roles further highlight his ability to balance academics and extracurricular pursuits.
The IB program at Korah Collegiate has been running for 20 years, and its impact on students like Crysler and DeLuca is profound. The program encourages critical thinking, global awareness, and community involvement. Since its inception, 508 students have studied IB courses, and 383 have earned IB diplomas. These graduates have gone on to attend prestigious universities and build successful careers worldwide.
Kathryn Johnstone, the IB diploma program coordinator, praises Crysler and DeLuca's achievements, emphasizing that the program is about more than just marks. It's about personal growth, self-management, and becoming caring, balanced individuals. These students are not just academically gifted; they are also socially and emotionally mature, ready to take on the world with their unique skills and perspectives.
In conclusion, Arja Crysler and Nolan DeLuca are a testament to the power of education and the potential of young minds. Their journey through the IB program at Korah Collegiate is an inspiring narrative of intellectual growth, leadership, and community engagement. As they embark on their future endeavors, they will undoubtedly leave their mark on the world, just as the IB program has prepared them to do.
