Nuria Sancho made the Principal’s List four terms in a row, and was a valued member of track, rugby, and field hockey teams, but it’s her winning attitude that distinguished her as the top international student at Mount Boucherie Secondary School (MBSS).
Sancho’s high achievement in her home country of Spain earned her the opportunity to study abroad. The 17-year-old continued her academic excellence in West Kelowna, while always making time to be a listener, a friend, and an active member of her community.
“We had so many amazing international students this year, it was hard to make a decision,” said MBSS International Education teacher Darren Pendergast. “Nuria really set herself apart by not only doing her best in unfamiliar circumstances, but by encouraging others to do their best as well. She’s a great example of how international students contribute to our school and community.”
The criteria for the top international student award includes academic achievement, extracurricular participation, friendship, and homestay integration. Nuria Sancho also enriched her host family in many ways.
“We have been privileged to host outstanding students like Nuria, who demonstrate the qualities of determination, leadership, and resilience, while overcoming the fears and challenges of being in a new environment,” said Nuria’s homestay mother, Sally Lauzé. “Our own children have adopted these traits simply through daily interaction with their international siblings.”
As the school year closes, Sancho will head home soon, but more international students will be winging towards Central Okanagan Public Schools in August. As the Central Okanagan’s popularity as a study destination grows, so does the need for homestay accommodation. People who would like to host one of these amazing students receive $800 a month and an invaluable cultural experience, but they should apply right away to receive a student for September.