Nat’s Pathway

For Nat, art has always come naturally. It was the first subject that made her feel truly at ease, and her sketchbook became a quiet place to think, explore and create. But despite her deep-rooted love for creativity, Nat’s journey through school has led her to an exciting intersection of disciplines, where art, business and science converge.

Now, as she graduates from Bangkok Patana School after 13 years, Nat is setting her sights on University College London (UCL), “I’m hoping to major in Business and maybe minor in Psychology or Art and Design,” she says. “I already feel confident in Art, so I want to challenge myself with something new.”

Raised in a family steeped in the world of fashion and entrepreneurship, Nat has always seen business up close. “My parents never changed their lives to fit around me, they brought me into theirs,” she says with a smile. “I’ve been attending fashion showrooms and business trips with them since I was little. I’d sit in these rooms for hours with a pencil and paper, just drawing, while they discussed business strategies. So I picked things up naturally.” That early exposure planted the seed for her eventual decision to pursue business. “At one point, I thought about dermatology because I’ve always been into skincare,” she explains. “But then I realised I’m equally drawn to fashion, jewelry and design. Business gives me the flexibility to connect all of those interests.”

Nat’s academic journey hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s been one of reflection and smart choices. Initially enrolled in Maths AA HL, she made a bold decision to switch to the easier SL track. “It took a hit to my academic ego,” she admits. “But it changed my predicted grade from 37 to 39, and that’s what got me the UCL offer. At the end of the day, it’s a points game.” Her IB subjects now include Higher Level Art, Economics and Chemistry, an unusual but thoughtful combination. “Art gives me an outlet, Econ feeds my business brain and Chemistry, well, I just love it,” she laughs. Art has always been a safe space for Nat. “It’s the one subject that never felt like work. Once I gave it proper time, I noticed how much it helped me think clearly and creatively,” she says. “There’s this idea that art isn’t academic, so we end up giving it less attention. But when I started prioritizing it, I produced my best pieces.”

Nat’s creativity extends beyond the classroom. She’s the lead singer of the Varsity Band and plays guitar, though she humbly notes, “I’ve only played a couple of times in school.” Her performance during Fun Day left an impression. “I just love singing. It’s how I express myself.” Beyond academics and music, Nat has also been active in community service. She is a board member and treasurer of DiabeOne, a student-led club supporting awareness of diabetes.

Reflecting on her time at Patana, Nat says the school has given her far more than just education. “I’ve loved being here. The facilities, the teachers, the people, it’s all been so good.” She cherishes her friendships deeply. “I’ve had people in my life since Year 1, and some of them are still my closest friends. It’s scary to think about leaving, but I know we’ll stay in touch.”

While she’s looking forward to life in the UK, she knows it’ll be a shift. “I’ll miss everything, the people, even those I don’t talk to regularly, because they’re part of my everyday life. And the food! The lunchbox sets have been incredible lately.” When asked what advice she’d give to a younger student, Nat doesn’t hesitate. “Be honest. Be grounded. Try everything. Speak to everyone. I think that’s what helped me get the most out of school.”

As Nat prepares to step into the next chapter, she carries with her not just a portfolio of artwork or a university offer, but a mindset shaped by years of curiosity, community and creativity. “I’ve tried to explore everything and be as open as possible,” she says. “That’s what helped me grow.” Nat approaches life with authenticity and heart. UCL may be her next stop, but her journey rooted in art, shaped by people and driven by passion is only just the beginning.