Gracie’s Pathway to mapping her future in Geography

After eleven years at Bangkok Patana School, Gracie is ready to chart new terrain. With a map in one hand and a baking tray in the other, she’s heading to the University of Exeter to study Geography—focusing on the human side of the discipline, a natural fit for someone who’s always been fascinated by culture, people and the stories behind places.

“I’ve always loved Geography,” Gracie explains. “At first, I considered studying Spanish too, because I love languages and travel—but then I realised I could weave that into my studies, rather than separate it.”

Exeter stood out to her after touring half a dozen UK universities. Its green, peaceful campus felt like home, a contrast to the more modern, city-style campuses that didn’t quite click. And with the potential to spend a year studying in Spain, the four-year programme felt tailor-made.

Gracie joined Bankgok Patana in Year 3 and quickly became the kind of student who finds a way to participate. She’s just completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, which included a particularly memorable cycling expedition in Chiang Mai. “It was intense,” she laughs, “but now I can confidently pitch a tent, cook on a Trangia, and push through the really tough bits. That’s something I’ll take with me forever.”

In addition to her academic and outdoor pursuits, Gracie launched her own baking business earlier this year under the name naughtybutnice, advertising via Instagram and taking orders from friends and the school community. “It’s a bit of a distraction,” she admits, “but it’s been a fun way to spend time.”

Gracie also contributed to school life in countless other ways—from co-president of the Arts Council (despite not being in an arts class) to coaching younger netball teams and representing Patana at FOBISIA Netball in Singapore, as part of the school’s first-ever international netball team. She volunteered with World Food Project and HER Period Dignity, showing her commitment to service and well-being across the community.

Her advice to younger students? “Don’t miss Tuesday noodles in the canteen!” she jokes. But more seriously, “Take advantage of all the opportunities here—trips, activities, events. You’ll never be in a place quite like this again.”

As she prepares to move to the UK, Gracie says she’ll miss the warmth of the Patana community most. “My tutor group has been together for seven years—we’re like a family. And Patana really is one big family. There’s just nothing like it.”

From school trips to startup baking, from Chiang Mai’s mountains to Devon’s valleys, Gracie is stepping confidently into her next chapter. Geography may be the subject—but connection, curiosity and character have always been the real throughlines of her journey.