Listen to the full conversation and find out which three words Niall chooses to describe his whole BSN experience and why:

Formative Years at BSN

Niall attended the BSN from Foundation 1 to the end of the Sixth Form. This experience was instrumental in preparing him for further education and his career.

“I think the BSN displays its excellence in many ways and I notice that the most through how it provided for me academically and how I was able to develop so well as a student over there. Going into university was probably made a lot easier by a lot of mentorship and guidance from teachers”

Embracing a Rigorous Approach

A disciplined approach to learning and problem-solving, cultivated during his time at BSN, has served Niall well since leaving the school. He also embraces the concept of failing:

“When you learn to get ok with failing—taking the approach of ‘ok, I failed here, what have I learnt from it? Where can I go now?’ And not taking the approach of ‘oh, I failed, it's over’—it shifts everything.”

Beyond the Classroom

In addition to academic excellence, Niall valued the numerous opportunities available beyond the classroom and appreciated the mix of people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Throughout his education, Niall was enthusiastic about sports and participated in many CCAs (Co-Curricular Activities). Some of his fondest memories include participating in the COBIS Games during both Junior and Senior School. His sports were athletics, basketball, and football, which he still enjoys. Sports excursions were highlights: “I’d give anything to go back to that”

Overcoming Challenges

Niall’s final year of Sixth Form coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to a lockdown in the Netherlands. This experience made him even more determined to seize every opportunity when he moved on to Southampton University. Niall studied Computer Science a relatively easy decision given his passion for this subject and other STEM fields. 

Starting a Business

In his final year at university, following a successful project collaboration, Niall and his friends were inspired to continue working together and start their own company. The process of building their business evolved organically, supported by their connections, university schemes, and mentorships.

The Journey of Entrepreneurship

Building this business has been an incredible learning experience for Niall and involves a lot of hard work. For him, the satisfaction of seeing a happy customer’s reaction when a successful product is delivered makes it all worthwhile.

Join the BSN Alumni Community Network

Take Niall’s advice to build and leverage a network by joining the BSN Alumni Community Network. Through this online platform, you can connect with alumni who have volunteered to help you with your career. It’s open to all BSN alumni and current BSN Sixth Form students.