The Yamazaki Family
Why did you choose DCSG back in 2014?
My friend had heard about the College and I was particularly interested in the Dual Language education, so I discussed with my daughter to see if she wanted to apply. The school she used to go to was only available through elementary school, and she was looking for a school that would take her all the way up to senior school. Mana said she wanted to give the examinations a go, so she did and here we are almost 10 years later.
In what way has DCSG impacted your family over the years?
We moved to Singapore to give Mana exposure to an English-language setting and education. Choosing the right school that Mana was happy to go every day was very important for me. It exposed us to a very different educational system that I was familiar with as I only know the American and Japanese systems and it has allowed Mana to challenge herself in various ways from academics to the performing arts. DCSG has definitely had a transformative impact on our lives in Singapore, as it has provided us support in adjusting in making the most out of our experiences both in school life and outside.
What is your proudest moment at DCSG?
It will come when Mana is done with her IBs and when she receives her graduation certificate. I am a single mother and it's been a journey for both of us to get through this decade. I'll be honest and say there have been ups-and-downs, especially during the pandemic, but it's been an honour to be part of the community of Dulwich globally.
What makes Dulwich special to you?
Dulwich is the place that my daughter spent the most time in upon coming to Singapore, so the experiences, opportunities, and sense of community that Dulwich has provided us with throughout the years has contributed to cultivating and nurturing her to the person she is today. Taking that into account, Dulwich will always have a special place in our hearts.
Can you describe the sense of community and connection you've felt with other Dulwich Families/Founding Families during your time at the College?
Despite my busy career, we've made a few family friends whom we have become very close to. The nature of expat community here means people leave after a few years, but the friendships have lasted, which is very precious.
Mana's responses:
Why did you choose DCSG back in 2014?
To be honest, I don’t remember the specific details on my rationale in choosing Dulwich College (Singapore) as it was a long time ago, but I vaguely remember having a conversation with my mum in willing to take on the challenge of transferring to a new environment to make new experiences.
In what way has DCSG impacted your family over the years?
DCSG has definitely had a transformative impact on my mum and my life in our second home in Singapore, as it has provided us support in adjusting in making the most out of our experiences both in school life and outside.
What is your proudest moment at DCSG?
It is quite difficult to select one moment which I am proud of in my 10 years at DCSG, as I have overcome many milestones whether big or small. However, I believe my proudest and certainly most rewarding moment is yet to come when I mark an end of an era when graduating DCSG after conquering the IBDP program.
What makes Dulwich special to you?
When coming to think of it, Dulwich is the place that I spent the most time in upon coming to Singapore, so the experiences, opportunities, and sense of community that Dulwich has provided me with throughout the years have contributed to cultivating and nurturing me to the person I am today. Taking that into account, Dulwich will always have a special place in my heart.
Can you describe the sense of community and connection you've felt with other Dulwich Families/Founding Families during your time at the College?
I am very grateful to have been able to make valuable connections with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and seeing the Dulwich community expand throughout the years.