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Emma Howat with her first job at Deloitte
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MELBOURNITE Emma Howat spent her last three high school years at Shanghai Community International School before returning to her hometown for university. She was very successful at SCIS, and her success has continued at the University of Melbourne, one of the world’s top universities. Emma recently sat down with the Communitas (SCIS’s school magazine) to talk about how her time in Shanghai helped shape her life.
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: I am studying a bachelor of commerce at the University of Melbourne. My majors are in finance and marketing. I am also employed by the university as a casual tutor of business statistics. After I graduate in November, I will start working at Deloitte.
Q: You’re at one of the world’s top universities, how well prepared do you feel coming from SCIS?
A: I was nervous about starting university because I knew all my peers would be smart. Despite my fears, I noticed that my critical analysis and written communication skills were relatively strong. The work I did at SCIS during IB was really challenging and played an important role in shaping my ability to think critically and present my ideas articulately.
Q: What do you think is the biggest difference coming from an international school versus coming from a regular school?
A: Culture! At my previous secondary school, people formed groups and friendships based on shared characteristics and had little interest in embracing diversity. At an international school everyone is so different, so if you want to make friends, you are forced to embrace diversity. This is a good thing because the resulting culture is very inclusive.
Q: When you first moved to Shanghai and attended SCIS, did you think you would be where you are today?
A: I think I knew I would end up back in Melbourne after high school and I had hoped I would achieve the grades needed to get into the University of Melbourne. I was only 15 when I moved to Shanghai, so I was focused on enjoying my short time overseas rather than worrying too much about the future.
Q: What advice will you give to those in high school right now preparing to go to university?
A: My grade 10-12 chemistry teacher once commented that IB brought him closer with his students. He said that it had become “him and his students versus the IB.” Work with your teachers during IB. They want you to do well and they will put in a lot of effort to help you reach your potential. You have to be proactive though.
Q: I know you were a multi-sport athlete in high school, have you continued to participate in any sports in university?
A: When I moved back to Australia I started playing netball again. Unfortunately I ruptured a ligament in my knee while playing and had to have surgery. So currently I am taking a year off sport while I rehabilitate my knee. I look forward to returning though.
Q: Do you have a favorite SCIS story to share?
A: After finishing IB, two classmates organized a dinner and party at their compound. They invited everyone in our graduating class and all the SCIS IB teachers. It was a really fun night and a testament to how close we had become with our peers and teachers.
Q: What was the most memorable moment as a student?
A: Graduation. I think it may have been the last time the graduating class of 2011 was together all at once. It was nice to reflect on our years at SCIS while also looking ahead to the future.
Q: Are you still friends with anybody you met at SCIS?
A: Of course! We all live in different parts of the world now but we have a group on Facebook for our graduating class that helps us keep in touch. Additionally, when I visit Shanghai, I try to catch up with all the other SCIS alumni who are in town.
Q: What is your lasting impression of SCIS?
A: One of my favorite SCIS memories is market day. During the warmer months, everyone gathered during lunch to chat, relax after a busy week and enjoy the food on sale. My memory of market day is a reminder of what I like most about SCIS — the sense of community.
Q: After your graduate next year, you will start your first job at Deloitte. Tell us more.
A: I did some research and decided to apply to their graduate program. I will start as an analyst in their tax team.
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