Raphael Yee ’25 from Malaysia has chosen to attend Boston University, concluding a successful university application process that saw her receive offers from several prestigious institutions including Loyola University, Case Western Reserve University, Edinburgh University, University of Glasgow, University of Nottingham, and NYX Shanghai. While undecided on her major, she plans to explore courses in both hospitality and business. Raphael spent her final two years of high school at TASIS, where she excelled academically by completing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma with an impressive 39 points. Her academic achievements earned her induction into the TASIS Cum Laude Society chapter and recognition through the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) Award during her senior year. She was also honored with the prestigious Cathy Clark Memorial Scholarship at the end of her junior year, highlighting her consistent academic excellence.
Beyond the classroom, Raphael demonstrated exceptional leadership and athletic prowess. She served as a prefect in a High School dormitory and was a standout member of the Varsity Volleyball and Basketball teams, earning the MVP Award for basketball in her senior year. Her commitment to school community extended to serving on both the Student Council and the Athletic Council, while also participating in the Art Club and Bake Sale Club. A multilingual student proficient in English, Chinese, and some French, Raphael's well-rounded profile made her a strong candidate for competitive university programs worldwide.
Reflecting on her university application journey, Raphael expressed particular gratitude for the support provided by the College Counseling Office. She noted that college counseling sessions beginning in grade 11 were instrumental in helping her understand the application process and necessary preparations to become a competitive applicant. These sessions provided clarity about differences between universities in various countries and what they seek in prospective students. Raphael emphasized the accessibility of her college counselor, Ms. Fishbein, who was consistently available to address concerns and provide guidance. The college essay help sessions offered during evenings demonstrated the counselors' commitment to going above and beyond in supporting students through the application process.
Raphael described the College Counseling Office as providing essential guidance rather than directives, helping her identify what she sought from her college experience and suggesting institutions that aligned with her expectations. This supportive approach extended to her extracurricular activities and essay writing, where counselors provided valuable assistance in presenting her accomplishments effectively. The comprehensive support system ensured Raphael felt confident and well-prepared throughout her university application journey, ultimately leading to her acceptance at Boston University among multiple attractive options.
When asked about her most inspiring experiences at TASIS, Raphael immediately highlighted the Global Service Program (GSP) trip to Cambodia at the end of her junior year. She described it as a rare opportunity to travel globally with peers to perform meaningful service in a developing country. The experience proved inspiring as it pushed students beyond their comfort zones while exposing them to different cultural contexts. Raphael specifically mentioned the challenges of working in rice fields and participating in house construction, experiences that motivated her to continue engaging in meaningful service work. The program also allowed students to explore Cambodia's landscape and culture, fostering greater global awareness. She acknowledged Ms. Clardy's significant efforts in planning GSP events and creating memorable experiences for participants.
Raphael fondly recalled specific teachers who profoundly impacted her educational journey. She emphasized Ms. Cohen's role as both an exceptional educator and supportive friend, noting how she transformed English—never Raphael's favorite subject—into an enjoyable, laughter-filled classroom experience. Raphael appreciated the extra effort Ms. Cohen invested to make students feel special and cared for, establishing her as a significant figure in Raphael's TASIS experience. Similarly, Ms. Fishbein provided crucial support, treating Raphael "like her own daughter" and creating a sense of home despite being far from Malaysia. Raphael expressed deep gratitude for Ms. Fishbein's consistent assistance throughout her TASIS journey, particularly during the college application process.
As she prepared to graduate, Raphael reflected on what she would miss most about her time at TASIS, identifying the "smallest little things"—from the beautiful campus to dormitory laughter—as creating the fabric of her experience. However, she emphasized that the relationships formed with friends who supported her through high school would remain most memorable. These connections and relationships gave her time at TASIS profound meaning, creating bonds she plans to maintain beyond graduation. The community atmosphere, fostered by both peers and faculty, created an environment where Raphael felt supported academically, athletically, and personally throughout her two years at the school.
