Stasya Ng
Originally from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Stasya came to d'Overbroeck's after two years studying Music in Paris. She's taking A levels in Biology, Economics, History and Psychology – and, at the time of writing, has just been offered a place at Oxford University to read Psychology.
What do you think is distinctive about d'Overbroeck's?
Apart from the informal atmosphere, I think the teaching. The teachers here are very dedicated to their job. I like the way they'll bring in so many things to lessons – not just the syllabus. I feel like this has helped me cultivate a real enthusiasm for my subjects.
‘Alastair Barnett is probably the best History teacher I've ever had.’
They also help you improve. For example, Alastair Barnett is probably the best History teacher I've ever had. He's helped me improve my essay writing so much.
How else have you changed whilst you've been here?
I've developed a lot, personally. I think I'm more mature. My Director of Studies, Richard Knowles, has been really helpful in this. I think the system of Directors of Studies is very beneficial – and unusual. I've never experienced a system like it before. Richard also helped me a lot in the university application process, so that the final version of my personal statement was really refined.
‘The pastoral system is very beneficial. I've never experienced a system like it.’
How did you come to choose Psychology as your degree subject?
I was interested in Psychology before I started A level, so the fact that d'Overbroeck's offers the subject was definitely a factor in my decision to come here. Once I started lessons, I really loved it, and decided I'd apply.
Virtuosic pianist
Alongside her academic talents, Stasya is also a gifted pianist (she has played since she was four). We were treated to her rendition of Schumann and Scriabin at 2008's Winter Recital. Watch a clip of part of her performance below:
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