For the past two years, I’ve learned so much, academically and in terms of self-growth. Before studying at NIS, I had horrible social anxiety and I developed selective mutism at 10 years old. I would talk to people only if it was absolutely necessary, otherwise I would only shake or nod my head to communicate. My classmates and I tried to be friends, but none of us knew how to since I had trouble speaking. When I joined NIS, I was really surprised by the teachers’ and students’ friendliness. They would greet me when we came across each other in the hallways, my classmates would invite me to have lunch with them, and for the first time in a while, I actually looked forward to school each day. My social skills have improved immensely since I entered this school. I am also closer to my family now. The teachers here are also incredibly kind and patient. They took their time to make sure I understood their subject. I could talk to them and discuss any questions with them during breaks. Thanks to them, I was able to score straight A*s for my IGCSE exams.