Welcoming Grad’26 to the Alumni Community
There is something special about hearing from someone who once sat where you are now. At this year’s Alumni Breakfast, […]
There is something special about hearing from someone who once sat where you are now. At this year’s Alumni Breakfast, the Class of 2026 gathered for a morning of conversation, encouragement and reflection, joined by Grad’10 Tammy Dejsupa, now a journalist and TV reporter for NHK Bangkok.
Tammy shared her journey from Bangkok Patana School to university in Thailand and eventually into journalism. She described her university experience as a reverse culture shock. Coming from an international school environment, she had to readjust to a different academic and social setting. Yet it was through embracing unfamiliar spaces that she began to grow.
One of Tammy’s strongest messages was the importance of saying yes to opportunities. She encouraged students to take on experiences, even small ones, because every role builds understanding. To step into bigger roles, she explained, you must first learn and appreciate the work behind the scenes. She also reassured students that pathways are rarely straight. Unexpected turns and detours are part of the journey and each one contributes to growth.
Tammy also emphasised the lifelong value of alumni friendships. These connections can grow into professional collaborations, support systems and even family. In her own life, her husband is also a member of the Class of 2010 and today their child attends Tiny Tigers playgroup at Patana, with another baby on the way.
To close the morning, the students were into the alumni community. They heard about global events, mentorship opportunities and the alumni platform available to help graduates stay connected and support one another beyond school. Students were assured that while they may be leaving Bangkok Patana as students, they are not leaving the community.
Because no matter where life takes them, Patana will always be home. And if they ever find themselves missing the noodle bar, they only need to send a message. The gates will always be open to welcome them back to the friends, teachers and memories that shaped them.
