Alumni Spotlight: Maddalena Coppo

“Growing up in the ISA community impacted my life as it allowed me to learn how to manage academics alongside extracurriculars and time with friends.”

Meet Maddalena Coppo, Class of 2026 graduate and recipient of the CAS Award and the Simon Schilp Athletics Award. Maddalena is now studying Architecture at the University of Edinburgh after being at ISA for over 15 years.

The CAS Award is given to students who embody the spirit of CAS – Creativity, Action and Service, in addition to the IB learner profile; and the Simon Schilp Athletics Award is given to students who have contributed positively to the ISA athletic programme and have been valuable members of various sports teams over the past years.

How did your time at ISA impact your life?

Growing up in the ISA community impacted my life as it allowed me to learn how to manage academics alongside extracurriculars and time with friends. 

What are some of your most memorable moments at ISA?

Definitely the field trips, both with the Swim Team and with my classmates, exploring different cities and bonding with one another. 

What advice or insights do you have for our current ISA students?

Take advantage of all the opportunities you can! Whether it’s a sports team, an overnight trip or even extra support from a teacher, those are the things that make a difference in your experience. 

The ISA Alumni Spotlight series aims to showcase the journeys of individuals in our student, teacher and parent alumni communities. We ask them to reflect on how ISA made an impact on their life, and to share their advice on how to carry out the mission of international understanding.