FASP Blog

At the French American School of Princeton (FASP), STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education is more than just learning scientific facts or formulas. The approach focuses on fostering creative problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration. Central to the curriculum is the engineering design process, which encourages students to not only learn technical skills but to apply them innovatively.

“It's not just about what you know, but how you use what you know to solve real-world problems,” says Brent Deisher, STEM teacher for grades 1 to 8.

Sophia had just started her higher education at Georgetown University when she chatted with us. With a love for languages and ice skating, Sophia is taking on big life pursuits; a career in law, politics and linguistics alongside her training in competitive figure skating. 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, where are you now?

I am currently a student at the Georgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service where I plan to study international politics and linguistics. After graduating I plan on pursuing a law degree and a career in international law. I am also a competitive ice dancer and am continuing to train and compete while studying in Washington. 

In 2014, Anastasia graduated from the French American School of Princeton (FASP) with a passion for analytics and problem solving. Her dynamic career as a data scientist began within our halls and serve as a backdrop to her inspiring story.

Can you tell us a little about yourself, where are you now?

Hello! My name is Anastasia Nesterova. I am currently based in Paris, France, working as data scientist at a big consulting firm, entirely in French. My educational path has taken me from the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey to Georgetown University in Washington D.C., and now to a joint Master of Science in Data Science for Business from École Polytechnique and HEC Paris. My family immigrated from Russia before I was born, and thanks to my education, I am now fluent in English, Russian, and French.

In a vibrant discussion about cultural identity and bilingual education, the Tsai family shared their experiences with the French American School of Princeton (FASP). This multicultural family, with roots in France, Thailand, and China, illustrates the unique benefits of a bilingual education and the importance of maintaining cultural ties in a diverse environment.

We had a wonderful opportunity to catch up with Akshay and talk about his current studies and work in Veterinary Medicine. Akshay remembers his FASP years with fondness and discusses the many advantages of his former education.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself before we go down memory lane?

Yes, of course. My name is Akshay. I am a student at Northeastern University in Boston, MA. I was born in Toronto, Canada where I lived until my family and I moved to Princeton at the when I was 10 years old. When I’m not at school, I love playing with my dog, Hudson, cycling, cooking, and watching sports. 

Alexandre took some time to talk with us about his current life and to share memories from his FASP years and the foundational impact of his bilingual education.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself before we go down memory lane?

My name is Alexandre Cartier. I am originally from France, but I had the opportunity to come to the United States at the start of 6th grade and spent 7 years there until the end of high school. I spent 3 years at FASP, a school that helped me transition not only from France to the US but also to an international way of thinking because of the people I met.