SPOTLIGHTING ALUMNI
1. What are you currently doing or studying, and how has your transition from ASM been?
I just wrapped up my studies in User Experience Design at The Hague University of Applied Sciences in The Netherlands (with a scholarship!). For me, ASM paved the way for interacting in international settings and getting comfortable with diverse curriculums.
2. How has your experience shaped your personal or academic journey since leaving ASM?
Since graduating at ASM, I’ve been studying abroad with more confidence in my English skills and a better understanding of international environments, making friendships with people from all over the world and feeling them shape naturally like I’d been doing it for decades instead of a few years.
3. You joined ASM in Grade 11 from a Macedonian public school. What was your first impression of the school environment?
My first impression was that it was very different from the public school system. The material itself was more immersive, and the smaller, close-knit classes allowed me to interact with everyone equally. I was also encouraged to speak up and ask questions about assignments, which wasn’t very common in the public school system. This allowed me to improve myself academically and express myself confidently without the fear of failure stunting my academic growth (because as a wise mathematics teacher once said, Mistakes Allow Thinking to Happen), and still passing with amazing grades.
4. How would you describe your personal and academic growth during your time at ASM?
ASM was a sudden jump from the public school I was previously in. It was a drastic change, but it was a welcome one. I was able to expand my knowledge on various subjects, and even found an interest in Web Design from our IT classes (which essentially helped me with my university studies later along the line). I also recall the events at ASM fondly, and interacting with students and teachers closer than I was able to in my previous school. It felt like a little family, and I still bond over those memories with fellow alumni.
5. What kind of support or experiences at ASM had the biggest impact on you?
There were a few notable moments. Firstly, I remember applying to universities and having to do the IELTS test with a few other students. ASM prepared us for it by giving us worksheets and assistance when we needed it, which led me to passing and getting a high grade. They were very helpful with helping us with our academic growth, also helping us choose a study and university through their partner universities (even if I didn’t end up choosing one of them, I know some students did). The state matura testing went smoothly thanks to the teachers who gave us extra lessons to ensure we were well prepared. Another notable highlight from ASM for me is the people. The fellow students I met there are still some of the closest and most supportive people in my life even 3 years after graduating, and I would not have met them or had the opportunity to become as close if not for the school. From studying together, to our brief volunteering to reorganize the library systems (speaking of, the library at ASM was very impressive to me as a reader), to making hot dogs at Easter events and celebrating each moment together, such experiences helped bring me closer to others like I wasn’t able before.
6. Based on your experience, why would you recommend ASM to students transitioning from a public school system?
I joined because of my interest in international settings, and I believe that ASM cultivated a strong international environment and met those expectations well. The curriculum is better aligned with practical learning, and you’re always encouraged to step out of your comfort zone from speaking in your mother tongue (Macedonian, for me) and communicating in English, which immensely improved my skills. Frankly, getting an American diploma is also a practical benefit. If you’re interested in studying with more interaction, or want to get to know the internationals in Skopje, ASM is definitely where you want to do it.