A holistic school programme is key to discovering passions and ambitions and it lays the foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth. Natsuko S. (Class of 2023) graduate wholeheartedly agrees, “Without the media class and film class that CIS offered, I would never have imagined myself to be in an art college. Those memorable CIS classes provided me with the opportunity to be a creator”.

The university scholar is thriving, scoring straight As at her first-choice university, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). She’s majoring in Film and Television with a minor in Illustration while working as an assistant for a Japanese filmmaker—a great stepping stone for her professional career in the creative industry.

Thriving as a global student

Engaging with like-minded peers and drawing inspiration from a global community at SCAD has, in Natsuko’s words, “pushed me to grow, not just as a creator but as a person as well.” She is integrating well within the school’s unique programme and dynamic environment, evolving into a versatile and talented filmmaker.

Adaptability and cultural awareness are qualities that are not entirely new to Natsuko. Her CIS journey instilled her with a global mindset, where she was taught to navigate challenges in a changing world with intercultural understanding and respect.

Natsuko shares, “International mindedness at CIS has helped me to stay calm, pushed me to learn and be open-minded.” This ethos has not only helped her form friendships but has also broadened her perspectives on life, values, identities, and cultures. “Just seeing the different cultures at CIS helped me realise that there are so many differences between people and that is something beautiful we should cherish,” she adds.

Smile for Sukocam!

Natsuko ignited her love for filmmaking at CIS. During her senior year, she brought her camera around, capturing moments that brought joy to the whole class. Her nickname “Sukocam” was given by her peers and embraced by many beyond her class. This simple act of documenting memories sparked her passion to tell different stories about one’s dreams and happiness.

The unexpected recognition of Sukocam in both CIS and SCAD made Natsuko motivated and excited to turn this passion into her own personal brand. She expresses, “I really enjoy capturing these moments, and I hope I can extend this purpose to make people happy through filmmaking and illustration.”

Unwavering support from CIS

Throughout Natsuko’s years at CIS, she thrived under the guidance of her supportive teachers. She says, “They always inspire me not just as a teacher or creative professional, but as a person who is supportive, positive, cheerful and kind, and that’s who I want to be in the future,” From helping her with college applications and academic progress to guiding her through the transition into adulthood and developing her talents for filmmaking, her teachers played a pivotal role in her development.

Natsuko advises her juniors at CIS to be inquisitive, confident and to take ownership of their learning as these qualities will be valuable in the future. She says, “The time management skills that I learned in IB really are helping me strive through SCAD classes successfully and maintain a good schedule.”

Natusko also encourages everyone who’s reading to be authentic, to make friends with like-minded people, and to embrace differences as opportunities to learn.