Alumni Connect – Tom Zhang
May the Force Guide You: Lessons From Tom Zhang’s BWYA Years
Tom Zhang attended BWYA from Grade 6 through DP2, completing both the MYP and the DP. After graduating from BWYA in 2014, he went on to achieve remarkable academic success at Johns Hopkins University, one of the world’s most prestigious research institutions, earning a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology before completing a PhD in Biophysics.
Looking back, he remembers BWYA as a formative environment that shaped his character as much as his academic interests. Arriving at the school with very limited English, Tom faced significant language barriers. However, he did not retreat but instead worked hard to improve himself. Many teachers also provided him with selfless support, often staying after class to patiently answer his questions and continually encouraging him to build confidence.
One of his earliest and most impactful memories comes from a Grade 7 culture trip to Xi’an. At that time, a teacher from Armenia was feeling down, and many teachers including Mr. Sargis and Ms. Stokvis, showed great kindness and patience, promptly offering comfort helping to ease the atmosphere. This scene helped Tom understand the power of empathy, communication, and intercultural awareness—lessons that have remained with him well into adulthood.
Beyond these personal experiences, the structure of the Diploma Programme played a significant role in shaping Tom’s academic path. He recalls Theory of Knowledge as an early introduction to critical thinking—one that later proved invaluable during his PhD in biophysics, where evidence‑based reasoning and analytical rigour became central to his work. His Extended Essay in Biology—his first self‑designed experiment—sparked a long‑term passion for scientific inquiry, while the DP’s emphasis on writing across multiple subjects strengthened his ability to communicate complex ideas. Today, Tom works at a Hopkins‑affiliated biotech start‑up in Baltimore, where he has lived for twelve years.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Tom also shared memorable moments from life beyond BWYA—particularly during his university years. A devoted Star Wars fan, he vividly recalls the surreal experience of discovering that George Lucas himself was present at his 2018 graduation ceremony, receiving an honorary degree. It was, as Tom describes, a “pure stroke of serendipity” and one of the standout moments of his time at Johns Hopkins. He also reflected on the unexpected joy of meeting admired figures later in his academic journey, such as encountering renowned physical chemist Professor Erik Lindahl at a scientific conference after studying his lectures extensively. These experiences, both personal and academic, reinforced for Tom the importance of passion, curiosity, and embracing the unexpected opportunities that arise along the way.
Reflecting on his journey, Tom encourages BWYA students to embrace the multicultural environment around them, be kind, and take care of themselves—finding balance not only between academics and ambition, but also between personal well‑being, meaningful relationships, and a genuine love for learning.
Thanks, Tom, for taking the time to share your experiences with us! It’s truly inspiring to hear about your path and the lessons you’ve learned along the way.
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