Spanish and French at Cambridge University
Former pupil Francesca Hill is currently studying Spanish and French at Cambridge University. Here, she looks back at her time studying the International Baccalaureate at BHSG and offers some advice to potential students.
"The International Baccalaureate was undoubtedly the right choice for me. I think it gave me an advantage in getting university offers, (even if the results asked of me were arguably higher than those asked of A level students) and the skills it provided me with have left me well-equipped to adapt to higher education.
Some people worry that they won't have time to do anything else apart from work. I managed to hand in all my work on time, was president of the debating society, played for my netball team most weeks, and still had a social life. Some people did fewer extra-curricular activities than me, some people did more; it all depends how efficiently you can use your time.
If you are someone who thinks that they might get bored with only four subjects, then definitely consider it. If I'd done A levels, I definitely would not have done a science subject; it's not something that particularly interests me. I doubt I'll use much of the knowledge I gained in SL Biology in later life, but the ability to study facts in a methodical way, paying attention to details, is one that even I can't dismiss as useless. Even if you do think you know what you're going to do in life, having a wide range of skills at your disposal can't really be a bad thing.
Writing an Extended Essay is admittedly, a lot of effort, and at times, I really wished I didn't have to write one. Looking back, I'm glad I did. I really do believe mine was useful when applying to university; most A level students haven't done any independent study in anything like that depth, so you have lots to talk about in interviews, and helps you stand out. Staying motivated and focused whilst researching and writing my essay was difficult, but I genuinely think I was a better student by the time I'd finished as a result. I wrote mine in French, on the impact of the Loi Toubon regards anglicisation of the French language. Previously no-one in school had written their Extended Essay in French, so it was a step into the unknown, but when applying for Cambridge I had a 4000 word dissertation to submit, when most applicants were submitting 400 word pieces of homework; it didn't matter if it wasn't perfect.
Yes, the exams at the end do have a lot riding on them. But you are well prepared, you have coursework behind you, and they are over quickly, leaving you to enjoy a well-earned four month summer break. I'd pick that over countless hurdles in the form of modules any day."
