AHS Hosts Annual IB Ceremony

Recently AHS held it’s 13th Annual International Graduate Forum, and Recognition Ceremony on Tuesday, January 5th, 2016.
This year the ceremony was held in the Auditorium, where most of the 36 IB graduates of 2015 who could come, attended the ceremony.
The IB class of 2015 had a panel discussion and soon after received their diplomas certificates after getting into college and waiting their 1st semester. Finally receiving their certificates, the IB candidates made AHS proud of their academic achievements.
“Last years graduates got into some of the top colleges in the country.” IB coordinator Linda Bradshaw told us. “Like Brown, Cornell, Stanford, Georgetown, and some in-state like Virginia Tech, and William and Mary.”

Bradshaw also said that “The message repeated over and over was that yes, IB is hard but worth the effort.”

Many graduates explained how much they appreciate their IB teachers here at AHS, and how learning time management, researching and writing essays has given them a headstart in college.

“It was nice to see all the seniors from last year and hear about their college experience and how IB helped in college.” Said IB candidate Gelila Reta.   
The IB ceremony is a memorable event because the current IB candidates on their way for diploma feel good hearing about the success stories of previous candidates.
The IB class of 2015 introduced themselves, talked about college, the benefits of the IB diploma and what college is like in relation to high school. This year’s graduating class is working hard and the IB diploma candidates plan to be at the ceremony next year receiving their certificates as well.
Many seniors were motivated by the panel discussion, and reflected upon their IB experience so far.
“The best part has been the learning.” Said Candidate Chris Le. “IB topics, math, and especially TOK have been really fun.”

The IB program has improved so much since last year. There are 11 more IB candidates and there is a variety of extended essay topics as well.
“This years group is more balanced in their academic strengths.” Says Bradshaw.

Later during the ceremony, an orchestral quartet was performed as the graduated class shifted to the auditorium. The ceremony concluded in the clausen hall for the reception.