School Advisor Articles

How Garden International School Prepared Priyankaa for University and Beyond

Published by SchoolAdvisor | Mar 12, 2025

How Garden International School Prepared Priyankaa for University and Beyond

 

Everyone's journey from school to university is different. Some jump straight into their studies, while others take time to explore and gain real-world experience. Priyankaa Elamaran did a bit of both.

 

Her educational journey began at the Early Years Center of Garden International School (GIS) in 2009. At GIS, learning extends beyond the classroom. Students follow a British-based curriculum designed to bring out the best in each student. The school cultivates academic excellence and individual passions, creating a strong foundation for future success.

 

Priyankaa completed her primary and secondary education at GIS, earning her IGCSEs in 2021. Reflecting on her time there, she describes it as a significant part of her life.

 

"I thoroughly enjoyed my years at GIS, not only for its academic rigour but also for the creative and unconventional activities that made learning dynamic and engaging. One of my favourite experiences was Enquiry Week, where students from different year groups worked together on projects related to science, technology, and the environment. It was a great way to explore topics beyond the standard curriculum."

 

Alongside its innovative learning experiences, GIS provided a strong support system that played a key role in Priyankaa's development. The experienced and knowledgeable teachers offered valuable insights and personalised guidance. Priyankaa also appreciated the school's pastoral care, which helped students navigate challenges inside and outside the classroom.

 

"When I transitioned into secondary school, I struggled with anxiety. I was assigned to Ms. Shellee, who specialised in supporting students' emotional needs. She not only helped me manage my anxiety, but also spoke to my subject teachers to ensure I experienced a smooth transition into secondary school. This support made me feel more comfortable and confident in my learning environment."

 

Priyankaa enjoyed her time at GIS for its academic rigour and diverse creative activities that made learning dynamic and engaging.

 

As she progressed toward her IGCSEs, GIS continued to provide structured support. Taster sessions allowed students to explore different subjects and potential career paths, while the school's emphasis on creativity, resilience, and independence ensured they were well-prepared for life beyond school.

 

The teachers at GIS were highly supportive and attentive to students' needs. They were approachable and proactive, recognising when students struggled with content or felt overwhelmed. By addressing these concerns early and working with students to find solutions, they helped ease the stress of exam periods.

 

This supportive approach proved instrumental for Priyankaa, who achieved mostly A’s in her IGCSEs — an impressive improvement from her mock exam results.

 

"Ms. Collins, my maths teacher, and Mr. Whitney, my sociology teacher, made their subjects engaging and interesting, which helped me enjoy the subjects and stay motivated. Ms Collins, in particular, provided me with great support, helping me manage my stress and anxiety during the exam season by advising me on how to manage my time and guiding me with exam techniques to improve my mock exam results.”

 

Beyond academics, GIS encouraged students to participate in a diverse range of co-curricular activities (CCAs), providing opportunities to develop new skills and interests. Priyankaa embraced these experiences, actively engaging in extracurricular activities that enriched her learning journey. 

 

One of her most memorable experiences was participating in the F1 in Schools competition as a Sponsorship and Marketing Manager. In this role, she managed her team’s social media pages while securing sponsorships to fund their expenses for modelling a miniature F1 car and producing merchandise. This experience not only enhanced her leadership and communication skills but also reinforced the value of teamwork and strategic planning.

 

Priyankaa appreciated GIS for its academic excellence and commitment to holistic student development.

 

Priyankaa made the decision to leave GIS in 2021 and continue her A Levels at HELP Academy in Damansara Heights, looking for a change in environment for her A-Levels programme. At HELP, she took Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry, achieving AAB in her final exams.

 

After completing her A Levels in November 2023, she took a short break from academics to gain real-world experience through internships in Kuala Lumpur. She first interned at her father’s boutique consulting firm, Ecapital Strategos, before moving on to Skanda Capital Group, an investment company specialising in technology and real estate.

 

Pursuing Economics and Finance at Queen’s University Belfast

 

Her interest in Economics and Finance has been long-standing, largely influenced by her father’s career in the finance sector. During her gap year, her internships provided valuable exposure to the industry, reinforcing her ambition to pursue finance and deepening her understanding of economics. This led her to choose Economics with Finance.

 

When it came to selecting a university, Queen’s University Belfast stood out. As a member of the Russell Group, it offers a strong business faculty and excellent academic credentials. However, it was more than just rankings that convinced Priyankaa. "After visiting the campus in the summer, I was struck by the close-knit community. The tranquil and peaceful environment further affirmed that it would provide an ideal setting for me to focus on my studies."

 

Today, she is in her first year at Queen’s University Belfast, studying Economics with Finance.

 

Today, Priyankaa is a first-year Economics with Finance student at Queen's University Belfast.

 

How GIS Shaped Her University Experience

 

Her background at GIS has played a key role in easing her transition to university life. Many international students experience culture shock when moving abroad, but studying at GIS meant she was already accustomed to a diverse environment. Being surrounded by classmates from different backgrounds helped her develop an appreciation for various cultures, making it easier to adapt to life at Queen’s. 

 

"Additionally, the activities at school were aimed at enhancing students' creativity and analytical thinking -skills that have proven valuable in my university studies."

 

This well-rounded approach to education is what makes GIS stand out. The school not only prioritises academic excellence but also emphasises personal growth, ensuring students are prepared for both higher education and the real world. 

 

For parents looking for an institution that fosters both intellectual and personal development, Priyankaa says, "GIS is an ideal choice,  particularly for students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad."