Interview with St. Jude's Academy Alum, Wayne Xue

The thing that I appreciate most is from my biology class, where the teacher encouraged us to engage in critical thinking and dive into research questions, rather than simply memorizing facts. This approach, focusing on applying knowledge instead of memorization, contributed greatly to where I am now, as I work toward a PhD in biology. Doing research requires a mindset that emphasizes deep problem-solving and critical thinking, which I first developed in this class. From that experience, I saw the qualities of a scientist, and that had a lasting impact on my academic journey.

One thing that is unique about St. Jude’s Academy is its small size, which fosters a tight-knit community. When you graduate, you know everyone in your class, and you have closer relationships with your teachers and even the staff. This community continues to be meaningful even after graduation, as alumni are remembered and welcomed back. In larger schools, such relationships and memories are less likely to persist. The small, familiar environment of St. Jude’s is a defining feature that sets it apart.

St. Jude’s Academy has a multicultural environment, with many international students as well as second-generation immigrants. This diversity allows students to learn from different cultures and perspectives. The small class sizes encourage frequent interactions, enabling students to connect with each other across different backgrounds. This openness to diversity helps foster an ideal of becoming a better human being, which is something that connects the students at St. Jude’s Academy.

Leadership is highly emphasized at St. Jude’s Academy, with teachers encouraging students to see themselves as pioneering leaders in their future fields. The school’s goal is not just to prepare students for jobs, but to cultivate leaders who will shape the future. Students are encouraged to think long-term about their personal and professional goals, and to take initiative in guiding their own lives. These leadership qualities are seen as essential to success in any career, and the school helps students develop them through both academics and extracurricular activities.

Several extracurricular activities at St. Jude’s Academy contribute to the sense of community and leadership development, such as sports teams and mock trial competitions. The school has a strong football (soccer) team, and when I was there, the mock trial club was one of the largest extracurriculars, spanning students from grades 9 to 12. These activities help students connect, build team spirit, and develop leadership skills outside the classroom.

St. Jude’s Academy now offers the full IB curriculum from Grades 1 to 12, which I believe is a great addition. The IB curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, rather than rote memorization. When I was there in 2016, for grades 11 and 12, the full IB curriculum hadn’t yet been implemented, but the school has since expanded its academic offerings, including preparation for SATs. These improvements in academic rigor have greatly enhanced the school’s offerings.

Looking back, I appreciate that St. Jude’s Academy provided a more well-rounded education than I initially expected. The school balanced academics with opportunities to participate in sports, extracurriculars, and leadership roles. Unlike the academic competition and focus on grades that I anticipated, St. Jude’s emphasized the importance of soft skills and overall development. This approach has made students more prepared for university and life, focusing on long-term success rather than just academic achievements.

St. Jude’s Academy instills a global mindset in its students, with graduates attending universities not just in Canada but also in the UK and the US. The school’s diverse student body, representing different backgrounds and perspectives, plays a significant role in fostering this global outlook. This exposure helps students become more well-rounded and prepared for the challenges of the global workforce, making St. Jude’s Academy a valuable place for students to gain a broader perspective on the world.

For new students, it is important to take the time to figure out what kind of person you want to become and what career path you want to pursue. Once you identify your goals, you should focus on moving toward them without being swayed by others’ opinions. At St. Jude’s Academy, the emphasis is on personal growth and leadership, and it’s crucial to stay true to your own vision of the future.