CLEVELAND High School’s Ivan Lai has achieved global recognition, ranking in the top 1% worldwide after receiving a near-perfect score in his Year 12 International Baccalaureate (IB) results.
The 18-year-old credits his success to a combination of dedication, hard work, and a strong support system.
“I honestly could not believe it,” Ivan said, reflecting on his reaction when he saw his results.
“I was very nervous opening up my results, but I was definitely pleasantly shocked at how much better I did than I thought I would.”
Ivan pursued the IB program for its international recognition and rigorous academic structure, aiming to study in the US.
“The IB program is one of the most intensive academic pathways you can take, not just in Australia but right across the world,” he said.
“This program is also one that prepares students very well for university, and many have said that after the IB, university feels a lot easier compared to those who took the ATAR pathway.”
Ivan has applied to prestigious US universities, including MIT, Stanford, and Caltech, with aspirations to pursue a career in aeronautics and astronautics engineering.
His study habits played a crucial role in Ivan’s success.
“The main thing that helped me to succeed is to not fall behind or procrastinate on anything,” he said.
Balancing academics with extracurricular activities played a key role in managing stress.
Ivan participated in various school activities, such as student council president, choir, and debating, as well as army cadets outside of school.
Additionally, his dedication to sports, including tennis and swimming, helped him de-stress and stay focused.
Ivan credited the encouragement and support he received from his parents, coaches, teachers, and IB classmates throughout his high school journey.
