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Private education in Bucharest

How to Choose the Right Private School for Your Child in Romania

Selecting the right private school for your child is a major decision—especially for families moving to or living in Romania. With a growing number of bilingual and international schools offering diverse curricula and teaching philosophies, the options can be overwhelming. To help simplify the process, this article outlines key factors parents should consider when choosing a private school in Romania and how to align their choice with their child’s needs and future goals.

Define Your Priorities Early

Before comparing schools, start by identifying your family’s key priorities. These may include:

  • Academic rigor and international recognition (e.g., IB, Cambridge)
  • Bilingual or English-only instruction
  • Small class sizes and individual attention
  • Strong arts, sports, or extracurricular programmes
  • Emotional development and student wellbeing
  • Location and daily commute

A clear set of priorities will help you narrow your options from the start.

Understand the Curriculum Options

Romanian private schools typically offer one or more of the following educational pathways:

  • National Curriculum: Taught in Romanian; prepares students for Romanian national exams (e.g., Bacalaureat).
  • Bilingual Curriculum: Combines Romanian with English or another language; may include elements of international education.
  • International Curriculum: Includes globally recognized programmes like the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge IGCSEs or A-Levels.

If your family is international or considering university abroad, international curricula offer broader global acceptance and preparation.

Evaluate Language of Instruction

Language is a critical component, especially for expat families. In Romania, private schools may offer:

  • English as the main language, suitable for international students
  • Romanian-English bilingual programmes, ideal for local families or long-term expats
  • Multilingual tracks, including German, French, or Spanish

Consider your child’s fluency and how well they adapt to language immersion.

Look at Class Sizes and Teacher-to-Student Ratio

Smaller class sizes typically mean more personalized learning and better student engagement. Many private schools in Romania offer:

  • Class sizes between 10–20 students
  • Tailored learning plans for different skill levels
  • Better support for special educational needs (SEN) or gifted learners

This environment can significantly impact your child’s motivation and performance

Tour the Campus and Meet the Teachers

Nothing replaces an on-site visit. During your tour:

  • Observe classroom dynamics and student engagement
  • Assess the quality of the facilities: libraries, labs, sports areas, green spaces
  • Speak with teachers and school leadership about academic expectations and student support
  • Ask about discipline policies, safety protocols, and values

These in-person interactions often give the clearest insight into the school culture

Review Extracurricular Opportunities

Private schools often offer extensive extracurricular programmes that enrich the student experience. Consider whether the school offers:

  • Sports teams and athletic facilities
  • Music, drama, and visual arts
  • Debate, robotics, coding, or science clubs
  • Community service and leadership programmes

Extracurricular involvement contributes to holistic development and is valued in university applications.

Ask About University Preparation and Alumni Outcomes

For older students, it’s essential to evaluate how the school supports university admission. Ask questions such as:

  • What percentage of students pursue higher education abroad?
  • Which universities do graduates attend?
  • Is there academic counseling or SAT/IELTS preparation?

Schools with strong track records of international placements often offer comprehensive college prep.

Consider Logistics and Daily Routine

Even the best school may not be the best fit if daily logistics are unmanageable. Think about:

  • School start/end times and afterschool care
  • Transportation options (bus services, parking availability)
  • School calendar and holiday schedule (especially if different from the public system)

A sustainable routine reduces stress and supports consistency.

Transparency, Communication & Parent Involvement

The best schools cultivate strong partnerships with families. Look for:

  • Regular parent-teacher communication
  • Transparent academic reports and assessments
  • Parent involvement opportunities and community events

This ensures that you stay informed and involved in your child’s educational journey.

Financial Considerations

Private education in Romania comes with tuition and additional costs. Consider:

  • Annual tuition fees and what’s included (meals, transport, clubs)
  • Sibling discounts or financial aid options
  • Refund and enrollment policies

Plan ahead for long-term affordability to avoid disruptions in your child’s learning path.

Choosing the right private school in Romania is a personal and strategic decision. Whether your priority is bilingualism, international university access, or a nurturing learning environment, Romania’s private schools offer high-quality options to match a range of goals.

By taking time to evaluate your child’s unique needs and visiting schools in person, you can confidently choose a school where your child will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

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Private education in Bucharest

Private Schools vs. Public Schools in Romania: What Parents Should Know

Choosing the right educational path for your child is one of the most important decisions a family can make. In Romania, parents today have a wide array of options, including both public and private schools. Each choice brings distinct advantages and challenges, and understanding the differences can help parents make informed decisions based on their child’s needs and future aspirations.

1. Overview of the Romanian Educational System

Romania’s public education system is free and mandatory for children aged 6 to 16. It includes kindergarten, primary, middle, and high school. Public schools follow a national curriculum regulated by the Ministry of Education.

Private education, while relatively newer (especially after 1990), has expanded significantly, offering alternative curricula, bilingual instruction, and international accreditations. Private institutions are independently funded, meaning tuition fees apply.

2. Key Differences Between Private and Public Schools

🔹 Curriculum Flexibility

  • Public Schools: Strictly adhere to the national curriculum with little room for customization.
  • Private Schools: Often offer additional programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge, or bilingual tracks, providing a more globalized educational experience.

🔹 Class Sizes

  • Public Schools: Larger class sizes (often 25-30 students per class) can limit individual attention.
  • Private Schools: Smaller classes (typically 10-20 students) allow for personalized instruction and closer teacher-student relationships.

🔹 Facilities

  • Public Schools: Facilities can vary greatly depending on location and funding, with some schools needing modernization.
  • Private Schools: Modern campuses, well-equipped laboratories, arts studios, sports complexes, and digital classrooms are common.

🔹 Teaching Methods

  • Public Schools: More traditional, lecture-based approaches.
  • Private Schools: Emphasize interactive, project-based learning, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving.

🔹 Language of Instruction

  • Public Schools: Romanian is the primary language, with foreign languages taught as separate subjects.
  • Private Schools: Offer bilingual education (Romanian-English, Romanian-French, etc.) or full English instruction for international programs.

🔹 Extracurricular Activities

  • Public Schools: Offer fewer extracurricular programs, often dependent on teacher availability.
  • Private Schools: Provide a wide range of clubs, sports, arts programs, robotics, debate clubs, and leadership opportunities.

🔹 Costs

  • Public Schools: Free tuition. Costs may arise from textbooks, uniforms, or special programs.
  • Private Schools: Annual tuition fees, varying widely (from approximately 4,000 to over 20,000 EUR/year), plus additional costs for extracurricular activities, meals, and transportation.

3. Benefits of Private Education in Romania

  • Global Preparation: Internationally recognized programs (e.g., IB) prepare students for admission to top universities worldwide.
  • Personalized Support: Individual learning plans and counseling services are more common.
  • Holistic Development: Strong focus on character building, leadership, emotional intelligence, and creativity.
  • Language Mastery: Students often graduate fully bilingual or multilingual.
  • Parental Involvement: Private schools often have more structured communication and partnership with parents.

4. Advantages of Public Education in Romania

  • Accessibility: Free and widely available across the country.
  • Cultural Immersion: Students experience Romanian traditions, language, and values at the core of their education.
  • Academic Rigor: Public schools often emphasize strong theoretical foundations, especially in mathematics and sciences.
  • Community Connection: Public schools can foster strong ties to local communities.

5. Challenges to Consider

Private Schools

  • High costs can be a barrier for many families.
  • Some institutions may lack long-term reputation or accreditation, so careful research is essential.

Public Schools

  • Overcrowded classes and limited resources in some regions.
  • Less flexibility to support gifted children or students with specific learning needs.

6. What Should Parents Prioritize When Choosing?

  • Child’s Learning Style: Does your child thrive in a structured or a flexible environment?
  • Language Goals: Do you want your child to become fluent in multiple languages?
  • University Aspirations: Is international university admission a goal?
  • Financial Planning: Can your family sustainably afford private tuition over several years?
  • School Values: Does the school culture align with your family’s values and expectations?

Visiting schools, talking to current parents, and attending open houses are excellent ways to gather valuable insights before making a decision.

There is no universal answer to whether private or public education is better in Romania. The “best” choice depends on each family’s priorities, financial situation, and the individual child’s needs. As Romania continues to modernize its education system, both public and private schools offer valuable opportunities. However, for families seeking bilingual education, personalized learning, and international academic pathways, private schools increasingly represent a powerful and growing choice.

By carefully considering these differences and aligning them with their child’s potential, parents can ensure a fulfilling educational journey—in Romania and beyond.

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Private education in Bucharest

Private Education in Romania: A Growing Choice for International Families

In recent years, Romania has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for international families seeking high-quality education. With the rise of private schools offering bilingual and international programs, families relocating to Romania now have access to educational options that match global standards. Private education in Romania is no longer a niche choice; it has become a mainstream solution for parents who prioritize academic excellence, personalized learning, and cultural diversity.

The Evolution of Private Education in Romania

Historically, Romania’s education system was primarily public, centralized, and uniform. However, with the country’s economic growth and increased international mobility, the demand for alternative education models has risen sharply. Private schools began to appear in the 1990s, but it is in the last decade that their number, quality, and reputation have significantly improved.

Today, private education is characterized by:

  • Bilingual and multilingual programs (Romanian-English, French, German, etc.)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) and other global curricula
  • State-of-the-art facilities and innovative teaching methods
  • A focus on holistic development, combining academics, arts, sports, and emotional intelligence

Why International Families Choose Private Schools in Romania

1. Bilingual and International Curricula

One of the key reasons international families opt for private education is the availability of bilingual and international programs. Schools like Mark Twain International School offer a blend of Romanian and English instruction, preparing students for both local and global opportunities.

2. Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention

Private schools maintain smaller class sizes compared to public institutions, allowing for a more tailored educational experience. Teachers can focus on individual students’ strengths, challenges, and interests, leading to better academic performance and personal growth.

3. Modern Facilities and Resources

Many private institutions invest heavily in their infrastructure. Modern campuses with science labs, art studios, swimming pools, green spaces, and digital learning centers provide a stimulating environment for students to thrive.

4. A Global Mindset

International families often seek an educational environment that fosters open-mindedness and cross-cultural understanding. Private schools in Romania promote a global perspective through multicultural classrooms, international partnerships, and language immersion.

5. High Academic Standards

Private education in Romania is associated with high academic achievement. Many institutions boast impressive university placement records, with graduates attending prestigious universities in Europe, the United States, and beyond.

Key Features of Leading Private Schools in Romania

  • Bilingual Education: English is often the primary language of instruction alongside Romanian, ensuring students are prepared for global academic paths.
  • International Accreditation: Schools accredited by organizations such as the IB, CIS (Council of International Schools), or Cambridge Assessment International Education offer curricula recognized worldwide.
  • Holistic Development: Emphasis on sports, arts, leadership, and community service, beyond traditional academics.
  • Focus on Emotional Intelligence: Many private schools incorporate social-emotional learning into their programs, fostering resilience and empathy.

Notable Cities for Private Education

  • Bucharest: Home to the highest concentration of private international schools, including those offering IB and British curricula.
  • Cluj-Napoca: A rising hub for tech and education, with several bilingual and international school options.
  • Constanța, Iași, and Timișoara: Emerging cities where private education is expanding rapidly.

Challenges and Considerations

While private education offers many advantages, international families should also consider:

  • Cost: Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the school and program. Planning for annual costs is essential.
  • Availability: Some top schools have waiting lists, particularly for sought-after grades.
  • Curriculum Transition: Moving between different curricula (e.g., IB to British A-Levels) may require adjustment for students.

Tips for Choosing the Right Private School in Romania

  1. Define your priorities: Bilingualism, curriculum, extracurricular activities, class size?
  2. Visit campuses: Meeting teachers, students, and seeing facilities in person is crucial.
  3. Check accreditation: Ensure the school meets international education standards.
  4. Understand admission requirements: Some schools may require entrance assessments or interviews.
  5. Plan for continuity: Consider where your child will transition after primary, middle, or high school.

Conclusion

Private education in Romania is no longer a secondary option; it is a primary choice for families seeking world-class education in a dynamic, multicultural environment. For international families moving to Romania, private schools offer an excellent balance of academic rigor, personal development, and global preparation. With institutions like Mark Twain International School leading the way, the future of private education in Romania looks brighter than ever.

Whether you’re relocating for work, business opportunities, or a fresh start, Romania’s private education sector provides a welcoming and forward-thinking environment where your child can thrive — academically, socially, and personally.

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The ‘Architect of Future Education’ Award, Women in Economy 2025 Gala:

Anca Macovei Vlasceanu
Founder, Mark Twain International School
CEO, Romania Education Alliance

“Honouring our Past by Designing the Future”

On the evening of Wednesday, March 5, the majestic hall of the Romanian Athenaeum was filled with elegant ladies and distinguished gentlemen, gathered around the dedicated organizers—the leadership of the National Confederation for Women’s Entrepreneurship in Romania (CONAF)—to celebrate the Women in Economy 2025 Gala: Seven Years of Excellence, Innovation, and Resilience. For the second consecutive year, the event was held under the high patronage of the European Parliament. As the most significant recognition of female entrepreneurship in Romania, the Women in Economy Gala is more than just a celebration of excellence—it is a catalyst for change.

The 2025 edition, under the theme Empowered to Act, Inspired to Succeed, honored achievements through 10 awards given to women who have transformed industries, created opportunities, and redefined standards of excellence. Among these diverse and impactful industries, EDUCATION was proudly recognized, aligning with the new strategic partnership between UNICEF and CONAF, dedicated to education and vocation in Romania.

At the right moment, Dr. Marilen Pirtea, Rector of the West University of Timișoara, took the stage and warmly introduced the award:

“Mark Twain once said: ‘The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.’ A strong educational system shapes leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Today, we celebrate a visionary who has transformed private education in Romania, proving that international standards can become a reality. A leader in educational entrepreneurship— as the founder of Mark Twain International School and Romania Education Alliance—she has created an educational model that blends tradition with innovation, offering students a modern learning experience and a dual curriculum. A strategist for the future of education—under her vision, the institution has become a benchmark for private education in Romania, earning recognition through the acquisition of a majority stake by Morphosis Capital Fund and Vybros Capital Partners. For her courage to innovate, her vision for global education, and her tangible impact on the education system, we are honored to present the ‘Architect of Future Education’ Award to Mrs. Anca Macovei Vlăsceanu!”

Upon receiving the award, Anca Macovei Vlasceanu stated:

“I am honored to stand in the presence of so many strong and visionary women—leaders who, with grace, and perhaps without fully realizing it, inspire entire generations of young women in Romania to pursue affirmation, personal success, and professional and social achievement. I bow in admiration to them and express my deep gratitude to the CONAF leadership for awarding the Women in Economy 2025 distinction in the field of EDUCATION.

I step onto the Athenaeum stage with great respect, speaking here for the first time, though I have spent countless hours in this ‘sacred cathedral’ of classical symphonies—of Romanian and universal cultural spirit—since childhood, each time captivated by the magic of the maestros’ batons. In education, some poetically compare teachers to symphony orchestra conductors, guiding their students in unison toward knowledge. In reality, however, between us, teachers must often act more like calm air traffic controllers in bustling and crowded airports—navigating crossroads and connecting dynamic worlds, filled with precious and diverse passengers.

Although this award is given to me personally, for me, it implicitly encompasses everything that defines the rich history and vibrant universe of Mark Twain International School. For 30 years, our institution has had a revolutionary and positive impact on accredited education in Romania and, with great pride, on the global stage as an International Baccalaureate World School. I am deeply grateful for the trust and energy of over 5,000 students and alumni—both Romanian and from more than 60 other nationalities—as well as for the dedication of hundreds of extraordinary teachers, colleagues, and directors who have continuously left their vibrant mark on the identity of our school.

Alongside me in receiving this honor are Dan Macovei Vlăsceanu, my fundamental partner in business and life, and our children, Ioana and Petre, who continuously inspire, teach, and motivate us in this long and beautiful journey.

And since our anniversary slogan is ‘Honouring our Past by Designing the Future,’ I extend my gratitude to our investment partners, Morphosis Capital and Vybros, as well as to Dr. Matthew D. Wilkens—a leader in the field and our new Director General/Head of School—who have recently joined us in our essential mission: to scale the Mark Twain IS model, both by establishing new schools in state-of-the-art campuses and by transforming it into a guiding platform for other distinguished schools joining us under the collaborative spirit of Romania Education Alliance.

Together, in this new formation, we will continue to create undeniable progress and synergies in Romania’s private education sector, further establishing ourselves as a force on the global education stage.”

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The MYP Personal Project Exhibition 2025

A culminating event of the six-year Middle Years Programme and an International Baccalaureate academic standard which has been constantly endorsed by our IB-aligned educational institution, this year’s MYP Personal Project Exhibition took place on the 27th of February in the Secondary Campus, unveiling a set of admirable, inspiring and complex self-crafted works so amazingly put together by our 10th graders.

The MYP is designed for students aged 11 to 16. It provides a framework of learning that encourages students to become creative, critical and reflective thinkers. The MYP emphasizes intellectual challenge, encouraging students to make connections between their studies in traditional subjects and the real world. It fosters the development of skills for communication, intercultural understanding and global engagement—essential qualities for young people who are becoming global leaders. The MYP is flexible enough to accommodate most national or local curriculum requirements. It builds upon the knowledge, skills and attitudes developed in the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and prepares students to meet the academic challenges of the IB Diploma Programme (DP).

The MYP consists of eight subject groups: language acquisition, language and literature, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, arts, physical and health education and design. Student study is supported by a minimum of 50 hours of instruction per subject group in each academic year. In years 4 and 5, students have the option to take courses from six of the eight subject groups, which provides greater flexibility. 

MYP Personal Projects provide students the opportunity to develop a project independently, producing a truly personal and creative piece of work that stands as a summative review of their ability to conduct independent work. 

This year’s exhibition revealed, once more, our students’ daring spirit, inquisitiveness, creativity and knowledge. It was a true demonstration of courage, of passion and determination in facing the obstacles and thriving in an ever-changing world. Through their projects, our students have proven yet again that no matter what challenges may arise along the way, they will always take action and strive for a better world. Each and every one of those projects was a reflection of bravery, as they not only shared their aspirations with the community, but also their concerns about the world around them and how they plan to improve those aspects. 

If you entered the exhibition hall, your eyes would shift from raising environmental awareness to video-gaming design, from digital screen exposure awareness to philosophical interpretation of art, and many more. Each project, so elaborately brought to life, offered the observer a glimpse into these students’ minds, showcasing their unique perception of existence. Here are a few titles of this year’s exhibition: “The Deconstruction of the Classic Hero in Tarantino’s Movies”, “The Impact of Colors and Aesthetics”, “The Mark Twain Times: The Voice of the Future”, “Sensory Confectionery”, “From Concept to Play”, “Sleep 101 – Better Sleep, Better Life”, “The History of Rap”, “Protecting Eyes from Screens”, “Rain Water Collection System”, “Biodegradable Sanitizing Wipes”, “The Past We Might Not See”, “Oregano Oil – Creating a Natural Medicine”. Each project was a reflection of the values cherished and, moreover, encouraged by Mark Twain International School, namely: dreaming big, working hard for those dreams, and always staying true to your own self. When asked what they enjoyed most about the “Personal Project” experience, the overall response of our 10th graders was the journey towards their final goal – the research they had to make, accompanied by the necessary craft work, which allowed them to achieve such wonderful results -, improving self-management skills and discipline. Without expressing any doubt, this year’s MYP graduates are ready to embark on their next adventure: the prestigious Diploma Programme, culminating with the International Baccalaureate. 

We would like to thank all our students, teachers, mentors and directors, as well as our IB MYP Coordinator, Ms. Floriana Florea, for making this event possible, for the hard academic and research work to this end, and for what has proven to be another excellent exhibition for our school community!

Florin Ionescu

Advancement Officer

Mark Twain International School

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Spring into sports!

After launching a dynamic partnership with Athletico Young Star Club to introduce the brand-new Athletico Mark Twain Sports Academy, our school managed throughout the year to bring together our passion for the sports and our commitment to providing a professional and engaging experience for all our students and community members.

Athletico Mark Twain Sports Academy aims to nurture young talent in Football, Tennis, and Basketball. Designed to foster both personal and athletic growth, our sports club offers expert coaching in a safe and inviting environment. Whether you’re a budding footballer, an aspiring tennis player, or a basketball enthusiast, there’s a place for you here.

We are overjoyed by the enthusiasm and participation we witnessed during these past months. It was heartening to see so many young athletes and sports fans coming together in the spirit of teamwork and healthy living. The energy on the fields was palpable, and it’s safe to say that the Athletico Mark Twain Sports Academy has had a fantastic start.

Our green campuses, spread over 16,000 m² of open space, provide the perfect backdrop for athletic endeavors. We firmly believe that nurturing a love for sports complements our academic mission, contributing to the all-rounded development of our students.

We are confident that this new sports academy will continue to enrich our community and inspire a new generation of athletes. As we move forward, we look forward to seeing more students join us in this exciting journey of athletic excellence.

Thank you for your continued support, and here’s to many more days of teamwork, fitness, and fun!

Team Athletico Mark Twain Sports Academy

For more information about our programs or to schedule a visit, please call us at +40 735 000 160.

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A remarkable achievement attained by one of our most dedicated students (Maria Costea, DP2)

My name is Maria Costea, and I am a senior at Mark Twain International School where I have taken every opportunity available to me to grow as a learner and achieve my highest most unattainable goals. Among my proudest accomplishments is securing an offer at the University of Pennsylvania, a private Ivy League institute in Philadelphia, where I am going to pursue a major in psychology.

The journey was far from easy – having to balance a rigorous academic load, one that accompanies the International Baccalaureate, as well as pursuing various extracurriculars and leadership roles pushed me to my limits, however they ultimately had a positive outcome. I’ve grown and developed into an individual dedicated to aiding my community, as well as pursuing meaningful education. My early acceptance from this prestigious institution is a reflection of both the hard work I have dedicated my life to, as well as the unwavering support of my teachers, family, and friends.

My school, especially, managed to support me in ways that truly made a difference. Mark Twain International School provided flexibility and time for independent contributions, both in the school and the community surrounding us, allowing me to pursue meaningful endeavors. Even with the rigorous academic demands of taking the IB, my school allows its students to craft their own ideas and create their own opportunities, while also offering significant support from teachers and mentors. Therefore, I am grateful that I find myself in such a supportive community, one in which I can further develop into a balanced individual.

Mainly, I am most passionate about the intersection between psychology and technology, among other things. Ever since joining the National Robotics Team of Romania 3 years ago following in my brother’s footsteps, I grew an interest in technology and AI. I believe that individuals who do not fully grasp the human nature of communication and perception will not be able to keep up with the ever-evolving technology that is taking over all areas of life. The exception in this case is that the human element cannot be taken away from psychology. Technology can simply be used as a means of furthering and improving interactions, not replacing them, and this is specifically what I had in mind upon creating PsyBot.

As soon as I started IB psychology classes in high school, I immediately knew that I would be able to explore interesting possibilities in this discipline. Shortly after my revelation, my mom and I started debating various topics, as she is a psychologist herself, and the idea of me following in her footsteps was not an ideal situation, as parents tend to prefer their children to follow their own path. The most remarkable conversation we’ve had so far, one that I vividly remember, even a year later, took place after I told her I’d like to build a humanoid robot to integrate into psychological assessment and counseling. Granted, she was initially taken aback by my idea, because, “Technology has no place in psychology,” and “Humans are a critical component to psychology, and there is no way of doing it without them!” I explained to her how a robot would increase a child’s receptiveness to therapy, facilitating the therapeutic relationship, and most importantly how my research aims to expand human interaction, not replace it.

I am working on a humanoid robot (PsyBot) to integrate into psychological assessment and counseling for young people. After an initial pilot project in which I tested the robot as a supporting tool to the psychological assessment, I discovered that the robot increased the child’s receptiveness to therapy, facilitating the therapeutic relationship. My focus is on integration of a robot that uses technological advancements as a supporting tool in therapeutic intervention.

This is one of the areas that I’ve dedicated most of my time towards, as it serves as the perfect intersection between two areas I am most passionate about. Along with this, volunteering, community service, and painting are things I’ve enjoyed dedicating my time towards. My time volunteering at ASPO, the Cancer Patient Support Organization, offered a new perspective on the psychological benefits art brings. We offered patients acrylics and guidance, and their experiences did the rest. I still remember how surprised I was upon seeing their finished paintings, as the physical and psychological suffering these patients experienced was translated into beautiful and thoughtful artwork. The depth of the emotions they could show in their artwork impressed me, but I was also surprised by how much this process relieved them and brought purpose to their suffering. One patient told me, “I’m glad something good actually came out of the years of suffering I had to endure.” Art therapy gives patients the power to challenge the negative aspect in which their experiences are recalled, and changing the way they view these, as well as externalizing these negative emotions. I greatly value interdisciplinarity, as it allows me to combine various different disciplines since my interests span over various fields, and create ideas and projects that connect distinct communities. Overall, I would like to reinstate the immense gratitude I hold for the people around me, and especially my school, for supporting me in every step of the way, and ultimately leading to admission from my dream university.

Maria Costea

DP2 Student

Mark Twain International School