Nuria Sancho made the Principal鈥檚 List four terms in a row, and was a valued member of track, rugby, and field hockey teams, but it鈥檚 her winning attitude that distinguished her as the top international student at Mount Boucherie Secondary School (MBSS).

Sancho鈥檚 high achievement in her home country of Spain earned her the opportunity to study abroad. The 17-year-old continued her academic excellence in West 91大黄鸭, while always making time to be a listener, a friend, and an active member of her community.

鈥淲e had so many amazing international students this year, it was hard to make a decision,鈥� said MBSS International Education teacher Darren Pendergast. 鈥淣uria really set herself apart by not only doing her best in unfamiliar circumstances, but by encouraging others to do their best as well. She鈥檚 a great example of how international students contribute to our school and community.鈥�

The criteria for the top international student award includes academic achievement, extracurricular participation, friendship, and homestay integration. Nuria Sancho also enriched her host family in many ways.

鈥淲e have been privileged to host outstanding students like Nuria, who demonstrate the qualities of determination, leadership, and resilience, while overcoming the fears and challenges of being in a new environment,鈥� said Nuria鈥檚 homestay mother, Sally Lauz茅. 鈥淥ur own children have adopted these traits simply through daily interaction with their international siblings.鈥�

As the school year closes, Sancho will head home soon, but more international students will be winging towards Central Okanagan Public Schools in August. As the Central Okanagan鈥檚 popularity as a study destination grows, so does the need for homestay accommodation. People who would like to host one of these amazing students receive $800 a month and an invaluable cultural experience, but they should apply right away to receive a student for September.