Continuing on from last week we are highlighting the achievements of all applicants for the 30th Anniversary -Profiles of WAB Alumni Award.

This week we will continue with the 2 Employee Award Winners:? 

Michelle Chow-Liu

Michelle's journey at WAB started in 2005. In her 19 years at WAB, she has demonstrated her lifelong commitment to learning and innovation. She has mastered Mandarin, attained a Master's in School Guidance and Counseling, and a certificate in college counseling from UCLA. She actively engages with professional organizations such as the International School Counselor Association (ISCA) and the International Association of College Admission Counseling (International ACAC), where she is currently serving her final year as Immediate Past President. Her adaptability and forward-thinking approach are highlighted by her adoption of innovative platforms like YOUScience, Morrisby, and MaiaLearning for personalized career exploration, empowering students to navigate their futures confidently.

Michelle has also shown a deep appreciation for cultural understanding and her facilitation of events like the "Asian Night Market" and WAB Idol have fostered cultural understanding and intergenerational bonds. She has also contributed to the establishment of the Beijing International School Counselors Network (BISCN) and supported in organizing Beijing-wide University Fairs to promote collaboration and informed decision-making. 

When talking about her feelings after winning the award, Michelle expressed, "This opportunity represents a significant milestone in my journey, and I couldn't be more excited about the possibilities it brings. With this support, I will be able to begin my Doctorate of Education, make a meaningful impact in my field, and support the students I serve." "I am grateful for the recognition and look forward to sharing my progress and discoveries along the way. This is just the beginning, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes me,” she added. 

Sophie Liu

Sophie’s journey at WAB started outside the classroom and through her pursuit of further qualifications while working at WAB she earned a bachelor's and a master's degree, as well as participated in Harvard’s Project Zero training. As she earned her qualifications, she entered the classroom and, over the years, has moved from being a literacy Teaching Assistant to a Bridging English teacher. In her application, she shared examples of how she adapts her teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of her students.

Sophie's travels and coursework in intercultural competence have significantly shaped her teaching practice. She builds compassionate connections with students from various backgrounds, integrates cultural elements into lessons, and promotes active global citizenship. Her approach helps students appreciate diverse contexts and enhances their understanding of global cultures. She has demonstrated resilience and adaptability through working through personal challenges and uses her learned experiences to help students reflect and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

She also shared her excitement about receiving the award, "Receiving the Profile of a WAB Alumni Award reminds me that perseverance, even through challenges, is worthwhile. It inspires me to continue growing, pursue a PhD, and contribute more to education, helping schools innovate and better support students."

In total, 27 applications were submitted for the Profiles of WAB Alumni Award. The remarkable stories and powerful evidence of the learning journeys of the remaining 22 will be shared over the coming weeks.