From ISP to Oxford – A Journey Fueled by Curiosity and Passion

After graduating from the International School of Prague (ISP) in 2019, Adam Nori’s academic journey took him to Oxford University, where he is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Pharmacology.

From his early days as an ISP student to his current studies at Oxford, Adam’s academic journey is marked by an unwavering curiosity, a passion for the sciences, and a deep appreciation for the power of learning. Originally from Afghanistan, Adam has overcome geographical and cultural barriers to become an expert in his field, embodying the spirit of perseverance and global citizenship.

Discovering His Passion at ISP

Adam’s love for science blossomed during his years at ISP, where the school’s nurturing environment allowed him to explore his interests with guidance from dedicated teachers. “At ISP, I was fortunate enough to have great teachers who understood my desires and career aspirations,” Adam recalls. They provided him with the foundation to excel, particularly in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, and Psychology, which shaped his path toward a career in pharmacology.

At ISP, I was fortunate enough to have great teachers who understood my desires and career aspirations.

Adam Nori

Chemistry was the class that captivated him the most. “The topics you could explore made the world make a little more sense,” Adam explains. He describes how understanding chemical reactions and the science behind everyday technologies gave him a sense of clarity about how the world operates. It wasn’t just the content that drew him in—it was the way his teacher made the subject fun, approachable, and exciting.

Psychology classes with Upper School teacher Mr. Crane, along with Biology, further deepened Adam’s interest in understanding both the physical and cognitive aspects of human life. Through Biology, he gained insights into human anatomy and energy production, while Psychology helped him understand human behaviour and decision-making. Together, these subjects provided him with a well-rounded perspective on the dynamics of life, preparing him for his future studies in pharmacology.

The IB Experience: More Than Just Academics

While Adam thrived in the classroom, his experience at ISP extended far beyond academic studies. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme challenged him in ways that went beyond mastering subjects - it taught him the value of collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and balancing multiple responsibilities.

One of the defining features of his IB journey was the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) programme, which gave Adam the opportunity to explore his interests outside the classroom. A standout moment for him was leading a dog shelter club, where he provided medicine, attention, and fundraising support to local canine shelters. This project taught him important lessons about leadership, empathy, and the impact of service on both the community and oneself.

“The extracurricular activities, like CAS, were a real learning moment on how much you can take on your plate while studying,” Adam reflects. He encourages current students to embrace these opportunities as a chance to discover new passions, develop new skills, and contribute to causes that matter to them.

From ISP to Oxford: Pursuing a Life of Scientific Discovery

His time at ISP laid the groundwork for this next chapter, instilling in him a love of learning and a deep respect for the scientific process. Now, at one of the world’s leading educational institutions, Adam is diving deeper into the study of how drugs interact with the human body, a field that holds the potential to impact global healthcare.

Looking to the future, Adam plans to combine his scientific expertise with the legal field by becoming a patent attorney. In this role, he aims to help inventors and companies protect their innovations, ensuring that scientific discoveries are safeguarded and that creative ideas are transformed into intellectual property.

Words of Wisdom: Learning Is a Lifelong Journey

For current ISP students and anyone navigating their own academic path, Adam has some simple yet profound advice: “...embrace the process of learning.” He believes that education is not just about studying for exams or getting good grades - it’s about asking questions, exploring ideas, and never being afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

“Cherish the moments and interactions you have with friends and teachers. Embrace the process of learning, because learning never stops.”

Adam Nori

He also emphasises the importance of taking full advantage of the IB programme, particularly when it comes to extracurricular activities like CAS and the Extended Essay. These are opportunities, he believes, for students to push their boundaries, discover new interests, and make a meaningful impact on the world around them.

A Legacy of Curiosity, Service, and Determination

Adam Nori’s journey from Afghanistan to Oxford, through the corridors of ISP, is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with curiosity, passion, and an open mind. Whether it’s in the classroom, the lab, or the courtroom, Adam’s story is one of resilience and ambition. His love for science and commitment to making a difference will continue to shape his future - and inspire others to follow in his footsteps.

Ultimately, Adam’s story is not just about academic success. It’s about the journey of discovery, the power of education, and the importance of giving back. As he continues his studies and moves forward in his career, Adam Nori stands as an example of how one person, with the right support and determination, can make a lasting impression on the world.