An interview with DP1 student Elna

by Tokuzane Minami, Martin Baudoin & Charlie Piot

"Voices of IB" series spin off interview!!

Three of our journalists sat down with Elna, an MIS IBDP1 student living in Belgium, to explore not just her academic life but the deeper questions that shape her hopes, doubts, and dreams. From future goals to reflections on family, here’s a candid look into one student’s journey through the IB and beyond. 

Academic Life and Aspirations

Can you start by telling us your name and a little bit about yourself?

My name is Elna, and I live in Belgium. I’m currently studying French Language and Literature, English Language and Literature, and Theatre at the Higher Level.

Why did you choose those subjects?

I love literature and art, and Theatre really complements my language subjects. They sort of mix and match—you can apply the knowledge from language classes in Theatre. It makes everything feel more connected.

What IB score are you aiming for, and what motivates you?

As high as I can get. Being realistic, I know that 45 might be out of reach, but I’ll still try. I don’t have a specific motivation strategy—I just try to focus as much as I can. If I’m in the zone, I’ll do as much as I can. It’s about balancing your life—taking breaks, staying steady.

Happiness and Long-Term Goals

Where or when do you feel the happiest in your everyday life?

Evenings, definitely. Everything calms down, I’ve had dinner, and I get to play games or relax after a long day of school.

What is one meaningful goal you hope to accomplish in life?

It’s hard to define, but I guess it’s reaching a point where I can live comfortably without too much stress—especially financial stress. I want to reach that point while I’m still young so I can enjoy life. What worries me is the idea of working so hard only to have no energy left to relax or enjoy anything later on.

Where do these thoughts come from?

Partially from social media, but mostly from my family. My mom raised me alone until I was 11, and then my stepdad came into our lives. I admire her so much—seeing how she did it all on her own really stuck with me. She’s also a brilliant student; she studied computer engineering. But now, even she and my stepdad seem stressed all the time, and I really don’t want that kind of life for myself.

If Fear Disappeared…

If you could live without any fear of judgment or social expectations, what kind of person or job would you want to pursue?

That’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot. Maybe I’d drop out of school and become a housewife—but then I’d be financially dependent on someone else, which scares me. I'm torn between avoiding academic and work stress, and not wanting to tie my life to someone else's income.

What would you do if you had financial support from someone you loved?

Maybe I’d just live simply—do hobbies, give back in small ways. I play the violin, and I enjoy creative things. But honestly, school takes up all my time and leaves no room to explore hobbies or communities deeply.

So why not join more communities for those interests?

I guess it’s doubt. I did dance for 8 years, then continued for 4 more after moving. But I always felt embarrassed, even when people said “good job.” It’s a weird feeling—like I want to, but something holds me back.

If you could pursue any interest without anxiety, what would it be?

I tried cosplaying once. You don’t really make money from it, but it was fun. I guess I’m still figuring it out, but I know for sure—I definitely don’t want to become a teacher.

Dreams and Mortality

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Honestly, I haven’t decided yet. But somewhere peaceful, where life doesn’t feel so rushed and pressured.

If you had to die, how would you want it to happen?

Probably with my family beside me. That would feel right.

At what age would you want to die, ideally?

Somewhere around 90, maybe between 80 and 100.

And if you had a critical condition like dementia?

That would be hard. I don’t really know how I’d handle that. I imagine it’d be difficult for everyone involved.

Reflections on People and Relationships

Do you admire anyone?

Yes—my mom, definitely. Also my friends, because they’re so smart and capable. They inspire me.

Do you like humans in general?

Not if they’re assholes. But in general? Yeah. I mean, we invented some really cool things.

Final Thoughts 

We were thrilled to deliver this interview! Her voice is a reminder that success is more than a score—it’s about finding peace in who you are and what you truly want. Despite being our first interview, it was extremely fulfilling interesting interview!! The next responder is you...