Yume ITO began her journey at ISS International School in Grade 8 as an English as an Additional Language (EAL) student, culminating in her completing the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Grade 10.
Reflecting on her three years at ISS, Yume recalls being welcomed by a diverse international community that encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone and communicate in English, despite it not being her strongest language at the time. Transitioning into the MYP presented challenges, but Yume remained resilient and successfully completed her E-Assessments.
One of the highlights of Yume’s time at ISS was her involvement in music. She took part in the Festival of Lights and Family Fun Fair, where she was able to showcase her musicality and share her passion with the school community. Notably, she has fond memories of her time in the Band & Music ECA where she connected with her peers over their shared love of music reflective of ISS’s “family like environment” that values togetherness and connection.
Today, Yume is pursuing a degree in Global Liberal Arts at Ritsumeikan University, Japan, where her interests span across disciplines from history to economics. She credits her former English teacher at ISS, Ms Ozuka, for nurturing her linguistic abilities and guiding her to explore different academic pathways and to seize opportunities. Recognising Yume’s broad intellectual curiosity, Ms Ozuka encouraged her to pursue a course that allows for interdisciplinary exploration.
Looking ahead, Yume plans to pursue a second major in Australia, with a focus on the development of sustainable societies. She aspires to leverage her enhanced skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to humanity.
