International Baccalaureate (IBDP) – an exceptional educational program that promotes independent and self-directed learning, with its diploma recognized on an international scale. Some students enter this program boldly, while others do so not only with great enthusiasm but also with excitement. Žiedė, a graduate of the International Baccalaureate program from the Erudito licėjus 12th graduating class, shares her experience, impressions, and challenges she encountered while studying in the IB program.

– How was studying IB for you? Is it really as difficult as some might imagine?

IB studies lasted for two years, and I must admit that it was an academically challenging period during which I had to carefully prioritize my commitments. However, every time I hear the question “Is IB difficult?” I want to emphasize that the benefits of the courses and the experience gained during them outweigh all the difficulties and sleepless nights. I believe it’s naive to expect a program that offers so many advantages in the future to be easy, but anyone motivated, eager to learn in the future, and aiming for excellence will focus not on the program’s difficulties but on the value it creates.

– What did you like the most and why?

In the tenth grade, I decided to study in the IB program, and this decision was motivated not only by my family members but also by my interest in history. Over these two years, I put a lot of effort into preparing for history exams, but I also engaged in additional reading and writing, which, in my opinion, truly facilitated the work. History lessons are essential for any student who wants to acquire academic writing skills and analytical abilities, but before choosing desired courses, I would suggest familiarizing oneself with the program’s content. Personally, I was drawn to the extensive course that introduces the history of neighboring countries and provides knowledge essential for any informed individual.

– What are your future plans? Did you get into the desired university, and what do you plan to study? Why did these particular studies catch your eye?

The final year of the IB program was challenging not only due to upcoming exams but also because of the decisions I had to make about my future university studies. For many years, I knew I wanted to study abroad, so while studying IB, I acquired many useful skills, with English language proficiency probably being the most important. Given the opportunity, I decided to apply to seven universities, with the University of British Columbia in Canada being my primary interest. Now, with great joy, I can say that I got accepted into this university and chose to study Business Management. I chose these studies because of their universality; I believe a bachelor’s degree in this field would be easily adaptable and beneficial for me.

– What advice would you give to future IB students?

I would advise future IB students to start working from the very first day. It often seems like there’s plenty of time for assignments, studies, and questions, but when gaps appear, it becomes difficult to fill them. The pace of learning is fast and intense, but studying systematically makes it easier not only physically but also emotionally. By the end of the IB learning years, completing tasks felt like the best gift, so I wish every student starting the IB program success, which requires very little if you work hard!