As I approach the end of my International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment for the experiences I have had through CAS. Over the last two years of my DP journey, I have had the opportunity to engage in a variety of creative, active, and service-oriented activities that have pushed me out of my comfort zone, taught me valuable life skills, and helped me make a positive impact on the world around me. In this final post, I will reflect on my CAS journey, sharing some of the key lessons I have learned and memories I have made along the way. Join me as I look back on this transformative and enriching experience.

The past two years have been a roller coaster ride, with unprecedented challenges and disruptions that have impacted us all. Amidst all the chaos, however, one thing has remained constant: my commitment to CAS. When I started my journey two years ago as a new student at the Overseas School of Colombo, I had no idea what to expect. But I dove in headfirst, determined to make the most of this opportunity. And looking back, I can say with confidence that I have achieved more than I ever thought possible.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, I remained dedicated to engaging in creative, active, and service-oriented activities. When we shifted to online school, I focused on my mental and physical wellbeing, and also developed new skills. I honed my photography skills, took up cookery, and even learned how to design and make posters, finally joining the school yearbook club. In terms of activity, I proudly represented my school and country in the SAISA swimming competition in Jordan last year, and also went on an unforgettable Week Without Walls trip to Nuwara Eliya. But perhaps my most rewarding experience was serving as the Eco-Schools Service Group’s President, where I organized and participated in various projects to help our school become the first eco-school in Sri Lanka.

Reflecting back on all these experiences, I feel a profound sense of gratitude and accomplishment. They have not only helped me grow as an individual, but have also instilled in me a sense of purpose and responsibility towards my community and the world at large. I look forward to continuing my CAS journey beyond the diploma program and hope to use the skills and values I have gained to make a positive impact in the years to come. I have no one else to thank but my school and teachers for these opportunities.

Addressing the learning outcomes

1. Strengths and Personal growth

As a student, I have always been eager to learn and grow, seeking out opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. And one such opportunity that I seized with both hands was the Artificial Intelligence Summer BootCamp, which proved to be a turning point in my personal growth journey. From a very young age, I have been fascinated by the world of Artificial Intelligence, driven largely by the depictions of it in sci-fi films and TV shows. So when I discovered the AI BootCamp, I knew that it was the perfect chance for me to explore my passion and take my understanding of AI to the next level. And what an incredible journey it was! The two-week summer bootcamp provided me with a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in basic AI concepts, including categorization, classification, machine learning, and collaborative filtering. And with each passing day, I felt my skills and understanding grow stronger, as I delved deeper into the world of AI.

But the BootCamp didn’t just teach me about the technical aspects of AI – it also gave me the opportunity to explore its applications in real-world scenarios. Activities such as expert systems, natural language processing, speech recognition, and machine vision allowed me to see how AI can be used to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on society. And as I learned more about AI, I also had the chance to expand my coding skills, building on what I had previously learned through my experiences in coding and software engineering. I was introduced to new programming languages like Java and Python, which are essential to the world of AI. Looking back on this experience, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. The Artificial Intelligence Summer BootCamp helped me to accelerate my knowledge and skills in a field that I am truly passionate about. And it has also given me the confidence and inspiration to continue exploring new frontiers and pursuing my dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem. Thus, truly becoming an area of personal growth for me.

 

 

 

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2. Challenges and Skills

As I reflect on my IB DP CAS journey, I am reminded of the many challenges I have faced and overcome, all while developing new skills along the way. One of the most memorable experiences was participating in the SAISA swimming competition held in Jordan, where I was able to push myself beyond my limits and find newfound resilience. The SAISA swimming competition was unlike any other sports competition I had participated in before. It was an opportunity to represent my school and my country on an international stage, something I had only dreamed of before. Although I had been a national swimming champion in my under 12 age group, I had lost track of swimming after COVID and had to stop the sport for almost three years, which affected my performance. However, participating in SAISA gave me a chance to catch up with the sport that had been a significant part of my life for more than a decade.

As the eldest member of the swimming team, I had to prioritize my team’s mental and physical well-being over my own, putting my fears aside to be an example for them to follow. I motivated them even when I myself wanted to give up in many instances. This experience helped me develop my leadership skills and taught me how to be a team player. In addition, being in a new country for the first time without my parents was a challenge in itself. Usually, my parents would handle the logistics of any foreign trips we undertook, but this time I had to take charge. This experience gave me a sense of independence, boosted my confidence, and made me much more resilient. I knew that I would have to leave my parents eventually to pursue higher education in a different country, but this experience gave me the confidence that I could handle anything that came my way.

Overall, the SAISA swimming competition was a turning point in my life. It taught me the importance of perseverance, leadership, and resilience in the face of challenges. Participating in the competition and overcoming the obstacles that came with it has given me the courage to pursue new experiences and opportunities with confidence, knowing that I have the strength to overcome any challenge that comes my way.

 

 

 

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3. Initiating and Planning

Embarking on my CAS project at the Madiwela Special Education School was a defining moment in my journey towards becoming an individual who takes initiative and plans for a greater good. It was my way of taking the lead and ensuring that I was positively impacting the lives of those in need. The project allowed me to not only contribute to the community but also gain valuable insights into the importance of empathy and patience when working with individuals with special needs.

My primary objective was to create a warm and friendly environment for the students, and to do this, I had to plan meticulously. From arranging for evening tea and snacks to engaging the students in conversations about their hobbies and daily activities, I made sure that every detail was taken care of. But it wasn’t just about the surface-level conversations. I went above and beyond and played games with them and listened to their stories, which helped me establish a genuine connection with them.

The experience taught me the value of taking initiative and planning to make a difference. By focusing on the needs of the students, I was able to build meaningful connections and establish trust, which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. It also helped me develop my skills as a leader as I had to take charge of the situation and prioritize the students’ well-being over mine.

Overall, my time spent at the school was incredibly rewarding. I not only achieved my primary objective of creating a warm and friendly environment for the students, but I also learned about the importance of empathy and patience when working with individuals with special needs. My CAS project was a stepping stone towards becoming a better individual who takes initiative, plans for the greater good, and makes a positive impact on the community.

 

 

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4. Commitment and Perseverance

The story of our ECO-Schools team truly exemplifies the virtues of commitment and perseverance. As the Service Leader, I had the honor of guiding our team in its pursuit of the ECO-Schools flag and ensuring that sustainability was always at the forefront of our efforts. Despite the numerous challenges we encountered, we never lost sight of our goal and persevered with unwavering dedication. We identified key areas where we could make a difference, implemented sustainable practices, and closely monitored our progress.

Our commitment to sustainability extended beyond the ECO-Schools program and was evident in our daily actions and decisions. We actively encouraged our fellow students and faculty to adopt eco-friendly practices and to be mindful of their environmental impact. Through awareness campaigns and workshops, we also worked to educate our broader community about the crucial importance of sustainability. Finally, our team’s commitment and perseverance paid off when we received the coveted ECO-Schools flag, becoming the first eco-school in Sri Lanka. This flag symbolized not only our achievement but also our responsibility to continue striving towards excellence in sustainability and to inspire others to do the same. Our success was not just measured by the flag, but also by the positive changes we were able to effect in our community. For instance, we successfully convinced our school neighbors to stop burning trash and to dispose of it in an environmentally friendly manner, significantly reducing air pollution in the area.

Our ECO-Schools team’s story highlights the profound significance of commitment and perseverance in achieving our goals. It also demonstrates the incredible impact that small actions can have in effecting meaningful change. By remaining steadfast in our dedication and working tirelessly towards our goal, we were able to effect positive change in our school and community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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5. Collaborative skills

During our Week Without Walls trip to the highlands, we were challenged both physically and mentally as we hiked through the dense emerald green jungles of the Kirigalpotha mountain at Horton plains. The trek required great perseverance and determination, as we had to navigate a narrow pathway enshrouded in short thorny trees and filled with slippery rocks. Despite the arduous journey, we felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment upon reaching the peak of the second highest mountain in Sri Lanka after three hours of hiking. The breathtaking view of the surrounding plains and mountains made it absolutely worth it and created a shared memory that we will always cherish.

But the hike was more than just a physical challenge. It transformed us into much more resilient, collaborative, and stronger individuals. We realized the importance of teamwork as we supported each other through the obstacles and motivated one another to keep going. By relying on each other’s strengths and encouraging each other’s weaknesses, we were able to conquer challenges that we could not have done alone. We learned to communicate effectively and work together as a team, which helped to strengthen the friendship and bonds that we had with each other. Furthermore, the breathtaking view at the top of the mountain was a reward that we all experienced together, and it created a shared memory that we will always cherish. It reminded us of the power of collaboration and how it can lead to amazing outcomes.

This trip also reminded us of the importance of disconnecting from technology and connecting with nature. We were able to appreciate the beauty of nature, which was a thrilling and unforgettable source of entertainment. By protecting and appreciating nature, we can ensure that future generations will also be able to enjoy it. Overall, this experience taught us the value of perseverance, determination, and collaborative efforts. We returned to our daily lives as stronger individuals with a greater appreciation for the world around us.

Reflecting on this trip, I now understand the importance of collaborative skills in any setting, whether it is in school, work, or life in general. The lessons learned during this trip can be applied in many different contexts, and I feel better equipped to work as part of a team and achieve common goals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6. Global Engagement

One instance that demonstrated my global engagement was when I composed a YouTube video from the images of nature that I managed to take while developing my photography skills. Ever since I was a child, I had been fascinated by the flora and fauna in nature. I always felt a deep connection with the environment and felt the need to do my part in preserving its beauty for future generations. Watching plants grow and blossom into beautiful trees bearing luscious fruits has always been a sight that fascinated me. As I grew older, I discovered a new passion for photography, which allowed me to capture the stunning beauty of nature.

During the one-month lockdown during Covid, I started exploring this new form of creativity. Although I didn’t have a professional camera, I began taking pictures using my phone’s camera. I was amazed at how my pictures captured the essence of nature’s beauty, and I was determined to improve my skills. With the help of YouTube tutorials and other online resources, I slowly honed my skills and started taking better pictures.  I decided to compile the pictures I took in my garden into a video, which I shared on social media. The positive feedback and encouragement from my friends and family inspired me to keep going. I was determined to develop my skills further and explore different genres of photography. I realized that my newfound passion for photography could also help raise awareness about the importance of preserving nature’s beauty. By capturing and sharing the beauty of nature through my photographs, I hoped to inspire others to do their part in protecting our planet.

The images I captured in my garden may seem insignificant, but they carry a powerful message that can resonate with people all over the world. Through my photography, I aimed to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our planet and its natural resources. I wanted to inspire people to take action and make small changes in their daily lives to reduce their impact on the environment. My video was not just a showcase of my photography skills but also a medium to promote global awareness about environmental issues.

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7. Ethics of Choices and Actions

One instance to show the ethics of my choices and Actions my CAS experience of trying out a traditional Sri Lankan Dessert recipe. As someone who has always had a passion for cooking, I have been fortunate enough to inherit this love from my grandmother.  It was her wisdom that led me to a CAS experience that showed me the importance of ethics in our choices and actions. Driven by my desire to showcase the vibrant and rich history of Sri Lanka, I embarked on a mission to create a video showcasing a traditional Sri Lankan dessert recipe. In Sri Lanka, our traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, with each generation adding their unique touch. One such recipe that has evolved over time and has become a modern-day favourite is the chocolate biscuit pudding. Introduced to Sri Lanka by the British colonizers, this dessert has been transformed into a scrumptious and famous piece of food art that it is today.

Through my video, I wanted to share my love of food with people across the world and, more importantly, to represent my culture and heritage accurately and respectfully. I felt the responsibility to promote cultural understanding and appreciation rather than cultural appropriation. As such, I made sure to consider how my actions would be perceived by a global audience and ensure that I was upholding the ethics of representing my culture. Creating the video also presented me with an opportunity to learn a new language. I chose to make the video in French, which enabled me to improve my understanding of the language, broaden my vocabulary, and perfect my pronunciation skills. Learning a new language is a vital skill, and this experience allowed me to develop this skill practically and enjoyably.

Furthermore, this CAS experience taught me to consider the impact of my choices on the environment. In creating the video, I was conscious of using locally sourced ingredients and reducing waste by using reusable equipment. I believe that it is our responsibility as individuals to consider the impact of our actions on the environment and strive to make choices that are sustainable and responsible.

Overall, this CAS experience reinforced the importance of ethics in our choices and actions. It is crucial to consider how our actions can impact others and act in a way that is both responsible and respectful. By creating a video that shared the food culture of my country with the world, I was able to contribute to the global community in a positive way. My hope is that my video will encourage others to explore the rich cuisine of Sri Lanka and appreciate the unique flavours and history that our country has to offer.

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“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end”

As I approach the end of my International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, I am overwhelmed with a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. I cannot help but feel grateful for the life-changing experiences and transformative opportunities that CAS has provided me over the last two years. From the very beginning of my DP journey, I knew that I wanted to take on every challenge with an open heart and an unwavering commitment to growth. And looking back, I can say with certainty that I have done just that.
Through CAS, I managed to push out of my comfort zone and be challenged to develop new skills, make new friends, and contribute to the world around me in meaningful ways. In the midst of a global pandemic, when everything felt uncertain and unstable, I found solace in my dedication to CAS. I learned to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity, focusing on my mental and physical wellbeing, while pursuing my passions.

As I sit down to reflect on my CAS journey, memories of my most cherished experiences flood my mind. I recall my SAISA swimming competition in Jordan, where I represented my school and country with pride, and achieved my personal best time. I remember my unforgettable Week Without Walls trip to Nuwara Eliya, where I explored the natural beauty of Sri Lanka and forged lifelong friendships. And I cannot forget the many moments I spent with the Eco-Schools Service Group, where I had the privilege of serving as the President, organizing and participating in various projects to make our school more environmentally sustainable.

As I near the conclusion of this chapter in my life, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of appreciation toward my school, teachers friends, and my parents for giving me these invaluable opportunities. Without your unwavering support and guidance, I would not have been able to achieve all that I have. The lessons I have learned, the memories I have made, and the people I have met are all invaluable to me. The last two years at OSC have been my home away from home, and I will carry a piece of it with me wherever I go.

To my friends, you have been the sunshine on my gloomy days. You have laughed with me, cried with me, and celebrated with me. Your unwavering support and love have made my high school life magical. Even in the toughest of times, you stood by me, making it all the more memorable. I will miss you all dearly, but I know that our bond will remain unbreakable. I am proud of the person I have become over the past two years – someone who is resilient, compassionate, and committed to making a positive impact in the world. I know that the skills and values I have gained through CAS will stay with me for a lifetime, and I am excited to see where my journey will take me next.