February 4, 2021The Next Generation - Featuring Dilan Sidhu

Their final year has been far from what they imagined, but it has united our Grade 12 students in spirit and resolve. We caught up with some of our future grads to hear what they had to say about overcoming challenging times and their hope for a brighter tomorrow. 

Featuring: Dilan Sidhu

How long have you been a student at Aberdeen Hall?

I have been attending Aberdeen Hall since Grade 3, making this my tenth year at the school.

2020 has been a year of transition in many ways. How do you feel you’ve personally changed or grown over the last year?

Given the circumstances presented this year, I have had the opportunity to grow as a person with regard to mental health. While self-isolating and learning online, I was able to gain a better understanding of how important mental health and wellness is. As I advance through my final year of High School during the pandemic, this new appreciation has helped me tremendously- giving me the ability to prioritize myself while still finding ways to enjoy my senior year at Aberdeen Hall.

What changes have you seen in society as a whole that you think are a result of the political and social upheaval we’ve experienced this year?

Because of this year’s political and social upheaval, which resulted due to a culmination of a variety of factors (including the effects of self-isolation and the American election), there has been a noticeable change in discussions around mental health and an increased emphasis placed on the importance of educating yourself about topics you might be ignorant too. Furthermore, all the uncertainty that came with the pandemic has shown us that it is okay to not know how things will turn out in the end.

How can we as a school ensure that we are doing all we can do to change and grow along with the changing times?

As a school, we can continue to check in with the student body to provide mental health support and awareness, as it is in many cases the determining factor of future successes.

What do you think are the major challenges the world will be facing over the next five years?

Considering the many changes that came with the pandemic, I believe it will be a struggle for society to accept this different approach to everyday living as the new normal.

Speaking of the future, what are your post-secondary plans?

I intend to continue my educational journey by attending university either in Ontario or BC, where I will complete my Bachelor of Science degree.

What are your career aspirations? How do you see yourself contributing to your community?

After completing my Bachelor of Science degree, I would like to attend medical school in order to achieve my life-long career aspirations of becoming a doctor. I see myself contributing to my community by assisting those under my care to achieve their best possible health - physically and mentally. 

Do you have any words of wisdom for future AHPS grads?

My biggest suggestion for future grads is to not let stress get to you because this is your last year of High School, so you should enjoy every minute of it. I would also suggest that you take advantage of what the school offers in terms of Grade 12 AP classes and tutorials because universities will not offer you the same support and guidance.