The Class of 2026 shares how they got into the university of their choice. Here is Betty's story.  

Did you take IB or A levels?
I took the IB Diploma course. I took 4 Higher Level subjects: Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches), Biology, Chemistry, and Chinese. My two Standard Level subjects were Psychology and English (Language and Literature). 

Why did you choose the University of Pennsylvania? What factors influenced your decision to accept it, and what stood out about the university?
I chose UPenn because I was really interested in the CAR-T Cell technology they have developed, something I studied in a summer camp at Columbia a while back. I also visited its campus during my Year 12 Summer holidays, albeit as a regular tourist because I had no idea I would be accepted! I loved its university environment, and this, combined with the undergraduate research opportunities available in their College of Arts and Sciences, made me want to apply. 

Why did you choose to pursue Biochemistry, and what interests you most about the subject?
I’ve always been really passionate about the molecular side of biology, especially genetics. I don’t know whether I’ll be doing a pre-med track at UPenn. Most likely not, as I’m more interested in the research aspect of Biochemistry. Over the summer of Year 12, I completed independent research with the Cambridge Centre for International Research to delve deeper into this interest. During that process, I learned about mind-blowing ways we can use induced pluripotent stem cell technology in regenerative medicine. I think that was when I really decided I would enjoy dedicating another four years of my life to pursuing a degree in this area.

I first became interested in biology through casual after-class conversations with my GCSE Triple Biology teacher, Ms Mackenzie, about simple topics such as hormones. In my opinion, I never thought I was that good at the subject until I took up HL Biology class with Mr McCorquodale, who really encouraged people like me to read beyond the syllabus out of interest. In IB, much of my coursework was also biochemistry-related. I did a Biology laboratory EE with enzyme kinetics and Chemistry IA on the Maillard reaction of amino acids. 

What surprised you most during the university application process? If you could give one piece of advice to students currently applying to universities, what would it be?
Somewhat contradictingly, but not doing something “for the sake of the application” actually increases your chances in that application to succeed! Do things because you’re motivated to do them out of genuine interest, and don’t give up your hobbies during Sixth Form even when the schedule becomes tighter just to make room for things you don’t like to do. 

I didn’t apply for the Head Team or MUN or any of the “popular activities” because I knew I wouldn’t enjoy them. I simply stuck with my lifelong hobbies in Sixth Form like arts, swimming, and smaller community service projects. In the end, being my genuine self helped a lot.

What are you most looking forward to about university life?
I’m looking forward to the sheer variety of people I get to meet, both at UPenn and in the United States, which is such a diverse country. Although I’ve never lived there before, I am certain I can find a community I feel at home with. 

Being accepted into the PennArts programme means I’ll get to experience Philadelphia’s amazing arts and music culture firsthand, and that is the first thing I look forward to exploring more of. There are so many things on my bucket list, like trying an authentic Philly cheesesteak, going to Philadelphia Chinatown, joining an ensemble at Penn, and best of all, studying biochemistry there.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I hope to work in biotech or pharmaceutical research and development firms. It’s something I believe will both be fulfilling and potentially help solve global health challenges. I also plan to be a member of a community orchestra in my free time, as I don’t plan on giving up music no matter what I do.