The second group of students at Haut-Lac International Bilingual School has now completed the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP). Before heading off on study leave, they took a moment to reflect on their time in this career-oriented course and share how it shaped their academic and professional aspirations.
Which career-related studies did they follow?
Yonatan pursued a specialisation in sustainable hospitality through SUMAS, a university based in Gland and Milan that focuses on sustainability and business innovation.
Michelle and Rania both followed the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) pathway, concentrating on design and illustration. Valentine initially chose the same, but later transferred to SUMAS — a decision she found particularly rewarding: “It really helped with my Reflective Project. I’m happy I made the switch.”
Why did they choose the IBCP?
For Yonatan, the practical, hands-on nature of the IBCP made it the ideal choice: “I’m a physical learner — I absorb more through doing than studying theory. The IBCP gave me real-world learning and exposure to areas like conservation, leadership, and sustainability.”
Michelle appreciated the chance to focus on subjects aligned with her interests: “I had an idea of the path I wanted to take, and the IBCP allowed me to invest my time in things that actually mattered to my future.”
Rania valued the personalised learning approach: “It’s a more tailored programme, great for those who already have a clear direction in mind. It really teaches you to be autonomous.”
Valentine knew from the outset that art was her passion, and the IBCP enabled her to develop her skills in that domain: “I preferred concentrating on the subjects I truly love.”
What did they enjoy most about the IBCP?
Students consistently praised the freedom and flexibility the programme offered. Yonatan was glad to avoid subjects that didn’t suit him, such as science: “It saved a lot of energy and allowed me to focus on areas I enjoyed. Plus, the programme gave me amazing opportunities and professional connections.”
Michelle liked that the IBCP still mirrored aspects of the IB Diploma Programme: “I had similar experiences to DP students, but I could specialise and dive deeper into one area — a great preparation for university.”
Rania appreciated how the timetable was structured to encourage independent study, and found the PPS (Personal and Professional Skills) sessions particularly insightful, especially the discussions around ethical dilemmas.
Valentine found the independent research projects both challenging and rewarding: “It’s demanding, but it teaches you how to manage complex work by yourself — something crucial for the future.”
How did the programme benefit them?
Yonatan feels he’s leaving with both knowledge and a valuable network: “Everything I’ve learnt, along with the professional contacts and references I’ve gained, will definitely serve me later on.”
Michelle described it as a transformative experience: “It pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me grow — especially in how I apply myself academically.”
Rania mentioned how much she’d improved in managing her own time and workload independently.
Valentine agreed, adding that SCAD taught her a wide range of artistic techniques, while SUMAS provided insight into sustainable business practices and project management.
What are they planning next?
Each student is moving forward with a distinct and exciting plan:
Yonatan plans to explore different industries before launching a business in a field that truly inspires him.
Michelle will be pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design.
Rania is heading to Lausanne for a preparatory course, aiming to study Psychology at UNIL.
Valentine will begin a foundation year in art in Paris, and decide her next steps from there.