From A Levels to the American Classroom: May’s Dual Diploma Journey

Meet May Badonmar Su, our first student ambassador from Myanmar. Studying A Levels at her international school, she also embraced the American curriculum, thriving academically and in Hudson's global community.

Hudson Global Scholar: May Badonmar Su

Hudson Global Scholars Program: Columbia School U.S. Dual Diploma Program 

Home: Myanmar  

When May discovered Hudson Global Scholars, she didn’t just enroll—she became Myanmar’s first student ambassador. Studying A Levels at her international school, she also embraced the American curriculum, carving a unique path in the Hudson community while exploring new courses, leadership, and global connections.

Balancing Two Academic Worlds 

May is currently studying at an international school in Myanmar that follows the British curriculum. Though she has been working toward her A Levels, she wanted to go further. Intrigued by the idea of gaining an American high school diploma alongside her existing studies, she saw Hudson Global Scholars as the perfect bridge between the two systems. It was a chance to broaden her academic horizons, add flexibility to her schedule, and explore courses outside the scope of her current program. 

“I was intrigued by the variety of classes—like Psychology, AI, Digital Media, and Renewable Energy—and realized I could add them to my academic schedule and earn credits toward my future,” May explained. “It’s been a great way to expand my learning beyond the classroom.” 

May learned about Hudson Global Scholars through a teacher and quickly dove into researching the program. What stood out for her was the opportunity to earn two diplomas, personalize her curriculum, and explore new interests—all while continuing her regular schoolwork in Myanmar. 

Discovering the Difference: U.S. vs U.K. Curriculum 

Studying under the British educational system, May has noticed key contrasts between her regular classes and those offered through Hudson’s American high school program.  “I would say they're pretty different,” she shares.

“The English is similar, but I think with the U.S. curriculum, there are more activities involved. That's the reason I decided to join. I just wanted to experience a new curriculum apart from the ongoing steady course flow of my school life. I wanted to try something new, and it was a very great decision I made.” 

For May, this difference is a big part of the appeal. She finds the U.S. curriculum more interactive, with a strong emphasis on participation and hands-on learning. It’s given her a refreshing change of pace from the structured progression of her A Levels.  

Life as a Dual Diploma Student  

May is a dedicated student with a love for learning, whether it is studying, learning new cooking skills, reading, playing volleyball, or browsing her local markets. With Hudson Global Scholars, she has found a flexible academic program that fits into her daily life and fuels her academic passion. 

“One of my favorite parts would be the easy-going aspect of the programs, which satisfies the needs of working students and tight schedules,” she shares. 

May spends her days attending her international school in Myanmar and completes her Hudson Global coursework in the evenings. With support from responsive teachers and engaging assignments, she says the workload is academically stimulating without being overwhelming.  

Thriving in the Online Student Community  

Beyond the classroom, May thrives as a member of Hudson’s online student community, where she participates in global clubs and activities that strengthen her leadership, time management, and cross-cultural communication skills. She has met new friends from countries as far away as Greece and Latin America.   

Active in the trivia and language clubs, May has also contributed to the social media club, where she designs and edits posters and flyers—a creative outlet she thoroughly enjoys. Her favorite course? Digital Media because of its interactive, hands-on approach to learning. 

“Without this program, I would have never acquired the new information and lessons I received from not only the courses, but also from different people around the world,” she adds. 

Leading as an Ambassador 

May jumped at the chance to become the first student ambassador from Myanmar with Hudson Global Scholars, forging her own unique path in the program and creating a chance to stand out as a leader. She took the challenge and is thriving as she carves out a new path for herself. 

She appreciates the support she has received from Hudson Global Scholars as a student ambassador.

“The Hudson Global Scholars community has given me a new perspective apart from my local school life,” says May. “I have learned so much from socializing about leadership, cooperation skills, time management skills, and so on, along with different languages and cultures.” 

Now that she has completed her first year with the ambassador program, she believes it has given her extra opportunities to learn about the world, add classes to her educational track, and to carve out a significant path for her academic career.  

Looking Ahead 

May’s journey is one of growth, confidence, and connection. She has made new friends from across the globe and gained skills that will support her well beyond high school—even as she is still deciding where and what she will study next. One thing is certain: her family is proud and supportive, and they’re confident the program is setting her up for success. 

She encourages other students to take the leap:

“I highly recommend the Hudson Global Scholars program. The courses are manageable, and the experience is so rewarding.” 

With her eyes on the future and a passion for learning, May is proving what’s possible when you step into something new—and make it your own.