Torfun

Torfun

 

1.       First of all, please introduce yourself.

My name is Nopparada, but please call me Thorfun as it is my nickname. I began my education at Heathfield International School in Year 7 (Term 3). I am now 18 years old and just finished my A-Levels from Wrekin College, Shropshire, studying geography, economics and psychology. I have great passion in knowing about current events and archery.

2.     Where have you been now?

As mentioned, I just finished my A-Levels, and now I am on my summer holiday, waiting for my results and confirmation from universities.

3.     Why you choose to study in the UK?

I have a thirst for adventure, including challenging myself to study abroad and away from my parents, which means that I can develop many life skills such as independence (although, I’m very close to my parents J). I chose the UK in particular, because I’ve always been amazed by the culture of the UK, especially in terms of British cuisine!!

4.    How did you prepare yourself before getting to the new school?

I did a lot of research with my dad about schools in the UK that do the subjects that I want to study. After we selected a few schools, we went to the UK to visit these schools. My criteria for choosing schools are not only based on education, but also pastoral care, which is very important when you are away from home. After that, I applied for a student visa, and then bought loads of winter clothes!! Sometimes you also need your own beddings, but my friends in the UK kindly provided me with these items. Also make sure that you book your flight early so you have more options.

5.     Did you have to adjust yourself to the new environment?

Not really. I am adaptable and open, and I felt no pressure about being a foreign student at all. Schools in the UK are very similar to Heathfield in Bangkok, so I have no need to adjust to a new education style. Actually I quite like being in new environments from time to time, because there can be challenges, and I love challenges. I find people in the UK very friendly and welcoming, and I love the fact that I have the chance to connect with other people from different parts of the world.

6.    Please tell us about your life in the UK.

I lived in a boarding school, with the most wonderful housemaster and lovely girls. We have a routine, e.g., breakfast at 7.45, tea at 6.00 then prep at 7.10-8.30. School days were amazing. I always look forward to all my classes, especially in the evenings of Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, where you can do sports!! During my time at my school, I did indoor rowing, squash, circuit training and javelin. On Saturdays, you can choose to do activities, which can be academic or recreational. I never choose an academic option. I do archery and core exercises as my Saturday activities. On weekends, the school also takes you to different trips, including shopping at the local shopping mall and visiting historical places. We also have some weekends off, where you can stay with friends or your guardian. I stayed with parents of my friend who came to Heathfield in Bangkok on an exchange programme. They are very nice. Sometimes they took me to the theatre, and my favourite, archery and rifle shooting!! I love going for a walk in the woods with my friend and her adorable and loyal big dogs. I also joined the choir at my school, which is very fun because you will be featured in school concerts and other important services.

7.     What class that you started at Heathfield?

I started in Year 7 (Term 3), up until Year 11. I started in Term 3, because I just finished my education at a bilingual school, which has different education systems. I’m also a keen learner, so I decided to jump straight in rather than wait for Year 8.

8.     Could you please give the definition of Heathfield?

As you all know, the motto of Heathfield is “preparing for life”. I my opinion, this means that Heathfield is not the only place for educational knowledge, but is also the place for practical knowledge, which is very important.

9.    What is the most impression at Heathfield?

The small class size and the fact that we are very much like a family. The small class size means that you get all the attention you need from your teachers. I always feel at home when I was at Heathfield.

10.You got many experiences from school. Well, did you bring anything to adjust to your lifestyle?

This depends on the kind of experience. In terms of education, I have been more accustomed to learning by researching. Now I’m a keen researcher in areas that interest me such as psychology, both inside and outside the classroom. In terms of non-educational experiences, I could say that I’ve become much more developed socially. This made me more confident in terms of socialising with other people.

11.    What is your future plan in university?

That depends on which uni I get in. I applied for psychology and/with cognitive neuroscience for both the University of Nottingham and University of Leicester. Leicester is my first choice due to the modules offered. They also do societies such as archery and hiking, which I can’t wait to join. If I get into Nottingham, I guess the study would still be very similar as I applied for the same subject, but there will be different clubs and society. I’m interested in archery and possibly sky diving!

12.    What is your key of the successful?

Determination. Discipline. Endurance. Adaptability. Bravery. Diligence. These six factors will combine well to make you a successful person. After my time away from my parents, I have learned that the only way to achieve something is to do it, as long as it is legally, morally and ethically right. Anyone can do something, but in my opinion, people who possess these six key factors are more likely to become successful. I always try my best to stick to these six qualities when ever I do something, but the most important things are of course to never give up and believing in yourself.

13.   Would you like to say anything to current Heathfield pupils?

I wish you all success I what ever you want to do now and in the future. You all have great potentials. Believe in yourself, as you are the ones who are in control of your own destiny. I believe in you. J