Alumni Interview: Sarah Woods-Killam
Class of 2015 | Years at ISPP 2009 – 2015
I attended ISPP from 2009 to 2015. After graduation, I went to the University of California, Santa Cruz, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. During my time in college, I assisted with research in a psychology lab studying child development. For fun, I joined the Argentine Tango club, which I led as captain during my last two years. We even had the opportunity to compete in the US National Championship for Argentine Tango in 2019! After college, I worked at a biotechnology company for five years, but I’m now looking for a new adventure. In my free time, I enjoy aerial hoop, archery and axe throwing. I’ve lived on five different continents and have travelled to six. I’m hoping to make it to Antarctica someday to complete the seven! This year, I’m looking forward to my 10-year high school reunion and my wedding.
Name the places you have lived in.
South Korea, Arizona, Malawi, Zambia, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, Argentina and California.
Living on five continents is impressive! Do you have a favourite travel destination or a memorable experience from your travels?
One of my favourite places I’ve visited is New Zealand. My family and I rented an RV and drove from Christchurch, exploring the entire South Island before taking a ferry to journey through the North Island. The highlights of the trip were definitely the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Hobbiton.
What did you miss most about living in Cambodia when you moved?
When I moved away from Cambodia, what I missed most was the unique combination of its rich culture, the warmth of the people, and the incredible food. There’s truly no place like it, and leaving behind those unforgettable experiences was really tough.
What is your favourite ISPP memory?
It’s tough to choose just one because there are so many great memories! One that stands out is when the teachers performed “Price Tag” by Jessie J at the annual lip sync contest. They got all dressed up, and some even wore wigs! I also really enjoyed the MRISA art exchanges, MRISA sports tournaments and the Week Without Walls trips.
If you could give ISPP’s current Grade 12 class some advice at their graduation, what would it be?
It may sound cliché, but life really does pass by faster than you think. Make sure to appreciate every moment, express your love to those who matter, laugh often, savour all the delicious food, cherish the little things and remember that there’s still so much to discover and learn even after you graduate.
How did your experience at ISPP prepare you for your studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz?
I’m grateful for the opportunity to have completed the IB program, as it made my first year of college feel like a breeze. That said, transitioning from a semester system to a quarter system was definitely an adjustment.
How did you figure out what you wanted to do with your life?
Honestly, I’m still figuring out what I want to do with my life. What I do know is that I want to help others. I’ve realised that helping people can look different for everyone, and sometimes it just means showing up, caring about each other and promoting kindness.
What drew you to the Argentine Tango club, and what was it like to compete in the US National Championship?
I started learning West Coast Swing and Salsa in grades 10 to 12, which sparked my desire to join a dance club in college. During my time there, I had the opportunity to take various classes with different clubs, and the Argentine Tango class immediately stole my heart. I was fortunate to have amazing teachers in my first two years before becoming captain. Competing in the US National Championship was a dream, even though it was a little intimidating. We were the only college team, surrounded by professional adult competitors, but I’m incredibly proud of what we brought to the table. It was the first – and only – time the UC Santa Cruz Tango Club had participated in such a prestigious competition.
You have a diverse range of interests, like aerial hoop, archery and axe throwing. How did you get into these activities?
I love exploring new activities, and that’s how I’ve discovered many of my hobbies and interests. It’s also a joy to watch my friends try these activities, which is another reason I keep coming back. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend giving aerial hoop, archery or axe-throwing a try!
As you approach your 10-year high school reunion, what are you most excited about reconnecting with your classmates?
I’m really excited to reconnect with my friends and share some laughs. I can’t wait to hear about what everyone has been up to over the past 10 years and what they’re looking forward to in the future.
This interview was first published in the ISPP Pulse Magazine (February – April 2025).
More “Where Are They Now?” interviews:
- Mugabi Byenkya (2001 – 2005)
- Clara Kim (2012 – 2014)
- Victor Byenkya (2001 – 2005)
- Joseph Surivong (2002 – 2014)
- Visakha Som (1991 – 1996)
- Yoobin Kim (2012 – 2015)
- Gaurav Raul (2005 – 2007)
- Meghan McMurray (2015 – 2017)
- Enya Pangilinan (2009 – 2012)
- Vimuolea Hang (2006 – 2013)
- Frank van Zoggel (1991 – 1993)
- Sharlynn Ng (2005 – 2010)
- Brian Webster (2002 – 2016)
- Thida Leiper (1991 – 2005)
- Luca Fleschler, Fraya Fleschler, Ximena Herrera (2011 – 2017)
- Dany, Soriya and Kalyane Warren (1996 – 2001)
- Nadia Fernando (1999 – 2015)
- Lotta Urban (1998 – 1999)
- Sreyneath Poole (2000 – 2005)
