Final CAS Reflection
Over the past year and a half, my journey through the CAS program has been transformative, encompassing self-awareness, collaboration, and perspective-taking. Reflecting on my initial CAS goals and experiences, I can see how I have grown and learned through each of the seven IB Learning Outcomes.
LO 1: Strength & Growth, LO 2: Challenge & Skills, and LO 5: Showing Perseverance & Commitment
When I began the CAS program, I identified creativity as an area needing special focus. Although I didn’t join Senior Voice, I participated in the International School Theatre Association trip, an experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone. These activities allowed me to explore new forms of expression and creativity, contributing to my overall personal growth.The physical challenges I set for myself included going to the gym at least three times a week, running distance twice a week, and attending swim practice five times a week. While I didn’t swim five times every week, I swam extensively during the season, earning eight individual gold medals in the last two SAISA swimming events.
Although I mostly ran during the running season and didn’t practice much outside school due to my increasing workload, I participated in the 2024 SAISA track and field. Despite the tough competition, I helped the team secure two relay golds (15 and over boys 4x100m and 4x400m) and achieved new personal bests, including an 800m time that was only a second from OSC’s all-time record.
While I was consistent with gym workouts throughout DP1, I didn’t go as often in DP2 due to an increased workload, but I still found ways to work out at home. In hindsight, I realize I could have balanced exercise and work better, especially on days when I would be unable to find time to work out.
LO 4: Working Collaboratively with Others
Co-leading the Gecko Inc. service group was one of the highlights of my CAS experience. Collaborating with team members to teach basic swimming skills to underprivileged children required effective communication and teamwork.
Similarly, working with my classmates and with our office mentors during our internship at JB Securities demonstrated the importance of collaboration in a professional setting, enhancing our learning and productivity while providing us with valuable real-world insights for our future endeavors.
In my last season of swimming, I was honored to take on the role of swim team captain, with the hope of leaving a beneficial impact on my swim team community as a whole. Instead of steering my teammates to focus just on their individual accolades, I tried to foster an environment of collaboration, support, and collective growth- irrespective of age or skill level. I tried my best to provide consistent encouragement to my teammates, especially during tough races or setbacks. This not only helped motivate them to view these challenges as opportunities for growth, but also fostered my collaboration skills.
LO 3: Initiative & Planning, LO 6: Global Engagement
Organizing the swim-a-thon fundraiser for Save the Children as my CAS project was a significant undertaking that aimed to address the urgent needs of children affected by the crisis in Gaza, highlighting the importance of international solidarity. Along with Ethan, I planned and executed the event, ensuring all logistics were covered and participants were motivated to swim and donate. The successful turnout of 33 swimmers and the substantial amount raised (over $1,500 USD) demonstrated our ability to mobilize our community for a global cause, reinforcing the impact of collective action in addressing global issues.
My involvement in the Peace Corps service also highlighted my commitment to global engagement and initiative/planning. This program connects OSC volunteers with students in rural Sri Lankan villages to improve their English proficiency through cultural exchange. By engaging in weekly conversational sessions, I helped underprivileged children build confidence and open up new opportunities. Discussing their culture and identity not only broadened my perspective but also fostered meaningful connections, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and understanding.
LO 7: Recognize and Consider the Ethics of Choices and Actions
Recognizing the ethical implications of our actions was crucial in activities such as removing invasive species from the Talangama Wetlands. Understanding the environmental impact and taking responsible action highlighted the importance of ethical considerations in our choices, especially regarding the livelihood of the invasive species and the ethics involved regarding our removal of them from the lake.
Conclusion
Looking back, the CAS program has been an enriching and transformative experience. It has helped me develop a deeper understanding of myself, the importance of collaboration, and the significance of perspective-taking. I am grateful for the opportunities to grow, learn, and contribute to my community and the wider world. This journey has equipped me with valuable skills and insights that I will carry forward into my future endeavors.