Alumni Spotlight: Alice Cao '15

WPGA House: Grouse
Current Path: Art Educator, Interdisciplinary Artist & Master’s Student at UBC
Life Since Graduation
I am currently juggling three roles that I’m incredibly passionate about: I’m a Master’s student in Art Education at UBC, an interdisciplinary artist, and an art educator. Between teaching in Surrey schools and running my own home studio, my days are filled with designing creative experiences for students of all ages. My own art practice is quite broad—spanning everything from watercolour and sculpture to photography—and I even published my second children’s book as an author-illustrator last year! It’s been so fulfilling to stay active in the art community through exhibitions and workshops. Recently, I’ve even started exploring art markets as a way to share my work with the world. Academically, my research interest is exploring how art and writing—particularly poetry—can be woven together to shape processes of making, thinking, and learning, as well as the interconnection between humans and nature and ways to explore that in my art practice and pedagogy.
My Path to RISD & Beyond
After graduating in 2015, I moved to the East Coast to attend the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) for Fine Art and Illustration. I was drawn to their interdisciplinary curriculum, which allowed me to experiment with everything from animation and analogue film to ceramics and textile arts. One of my favourite resources there was the Nature Lab; as an artist inspired by storytelling and the natural world, having access to their collection of specimens and microscopes was a dream. After art school, I spent two years as a studio instructor, and seeing ideas grow into creations brought me so much joy that it eventually led me back to UBC for my Bachelor of Education and now my Master's.

Lessons That Stuck with Me
Two experiences at WPGA really shaped who I am today. The biking trip to France challenged me to push past my physical limits while teaching me the importance of moving at my own pace. Then there was the outreach program in the Dominican Republic. That was the first time I ever stepped into the role of a teacher. I still remember the mix of anxiety and excitement as we taught lessons and played soccer with local kids despite the language barrier. Those moments of connection and collaboration sparked the interest in teaching that has now become my career.

Fond Memories of the Pack
I have such fond memories of the Planet Club—caring for plants, raising butterflies, and even chopping down invasive holly trees. I also spent a lot of time on the synchronized swimming team (we even won a provincial medal!).
One memory that always makes me laugh was a failed prank. I tried to convince everyone it was my friend Ruby’s birthday by decorating her locker with balloons and notes. It worked so well that it even fooled Mr. Anthony, who announced "Happy Birthday Ruby!" at the senior assembly. The only problem? Ruby wasn't actually at school that day! It was a silly moment, but it reminds me of how tight-knit and caring the WPGA community really was.

The People Who Inspired Me
I was lucky to have teachers who truly fueled my passions. Mr. Grant ignited my love for literature and taught me the phrase "carpe diem," which I still live by. Ms. Mcneilly was a "hard" marker, but her support made me a much stronger writer, and Mme. Diem went above and beyond to help me find my footing in French—a skill that actually helped me land my first full-time teaching role!
Of course, Ms. Harms was a huge influence. I learned from her for five years, and I’ll never forget our massive class mural project. It was my first time painting on such a large scale, and it felt so liberating. Today, a book she gifted me for an art award sits on my shelf right next to the book I wrote and illustrated myself. It’s a lovely reminder of how my journey came full circle.

A Wish for the Future
I hope WPGA continues to thrive and embrace new creative technologies, like 3D printing. For the art program specifically, I’d love to see even more visibility for student work beyond the school walls through community exhibitions. I’m so proud that the passions I held as a student have become my career, and my greatest wish is for the school to keep fostering that same inspiration in others.
Back
Since 1996, West Point Grey Academy has gratefully resided on the Jericho Lands, the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and sə̓lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. Honoured to learn and play on these beautiful lands, we endeavour to be a leader in Indigenous education. In creating shared understanding and opportunities, we hope to help foster a more equitable society for all.

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West Point Grey Academy

4125 West 8th Avenue
Vancouver, B.C., V6R 4P9
Tel: 604-222-8750