Q: How long were you at CMS?

A: I started in the Children’s House in Ms. Jinny’s class at 4 and stayed at CMS until fifth grade.

Q: Where are you now?

 A:  I attend the University of Texas at Austin. I study management information systems. And I'm doing a minor in entrepreneurship. I'm currently continuing my studies at the Corvinus University of Budapest.

Q: Describe some of your memorable moments as a student.

A: I absolutely loved Serendipity, a festival we celebrated in the Spring.  I remember running around on the playground.  I also remember going to Ms. Veena’s house on a field trip. We got to experience a Hindu holiday. She gave us a delicious dessert. Having that exposure has created an interest in me to learn and be respectful of other cultures.

Q: Describe your transition to traditional school.

A: It was very different. It was sequenced. You follow the schedule and the instructions in class and just get it done. There's a lot more independence to be had at CMS.

Q: How did CMS prepare you for middle school and high school?

A:  I learned to write papers when I was six or seven. I was constantly writing and doing research. That has helped me all the way to college. I noticed a lot of my peers in high school found writing difficult. CMS also helped me stay curious. Be curious. It taught me to keep an open mind about how to solve problems.

Q: What interests did you pursue while you were at CMS? Are you still working on those passions?

A: There is so much art in CMS learning. I actually would take up two of my elective courses by doing two different art classes every single year of high school. I still create art as a hobby.  I want to create a little Etsy shop, so that I can start selling my art. I also think of art as a way to mentally decompress. In fact, I carry a sketchbook around with me while I travel.

Q: How do you think your Montessori education prepared you for life?

A: How to be a good person is implied at CMS. Montessori taught me how to be open-minded, see the big picture, and ask questions. I also learned to be respectful and love nature. I love hiking and exploring national parks. 

Q: Do you have advice for our current CMS adolescent students?

A: You can always change your mind about anything that you choose. There is no one defined path in your life that you have to follow. Make the most of every single opportunity. And never stop being motivated.