Be the best of yourself

After a week of gentle spring rain, our newest students have transitioned from curious glances to the unrestrained laughter of outdoor team-building, officially marking the start of their high school journey. From the dormitory halls to the dining tables and classroom corridors, the sound of "new growth" echoes everywhere. "I've already made new friends in the dorm!" one student shared. These budding friendships, much like the vibrant greenery after a spring shower, are quietly flourishing.

During the afternoon New Student Orientation, Superintendent Dr. LEI shared insights from her recent winter tour of U.S. universities. She noted the palpable atmosphere of ambition on American campuses but emphasized that the application process is highly professional and complex, with distinct criteria for every institution. Consequently, each student’s roadmap must be bespoke and strategically planned. She expressed her commitment to a strong home-school partnership, ensuring that through constant communication, students not only enjoy a rich academic life but also secure exceptional admissions results.

Principal WAN delved into the unique advantages of Student-Athletes. He introduced our specialized recruitment pathways for six major sports: rowing, golf, swimming, fencing, skiing, and lacrosse. By integrating athletic excellence with academic rigor, the school provides a broader trajectory for higher education. "Under scientific guidance," he remarked, "we hope students achieve not only their dream offers but also develop resilience, optimism, and emotional stability."

Executive Principal WANG outlined our academic positioning and curriculum structure. Addressing the transition from middle school, she highlighted the shift from "passive" to "active" learning. She noted that adapting to a process-based evaluation system takes time, as does the mastery of academic vocabulary and linguistic expression.

Mr. Fan XU, Director of the College Counseling Office, provided a detailed breakdown of our guidance system. He emphasized that university applications are a "multi-dimensional" competition. "Our goal is not just to help students secure offers, but to find the 'best fit' university. We want our students to become individuals with depth, direction, and a sense of responsibility."

To celebrate the Lantern Festival, Pre-G students participated in an immersive "ice-breaking" event. Through a life-sized Monopoly game and live-action CS, they dissolved the initial awkwardness and built camaraderie.

At the Opening Ceremony, the leadership team reflected on their visits to 15 U.S. universities, each with its own unique cultural identity and specific institutional priorities. As they spoke of how admissions officers seek diverse talent, the students listened intently—their eyes glowing with the spark of ambition and curiosity about the future.

G12 student representative Yeheng XU delivered a heartfelt speech on his definition of "Alma Mater." He spoke of finding lifelong friends and mentors who taught him the courage to experiment. Whether it was the "cheeky" yet dependable brotherhood on the football pitch or the weight of leadership as Student Council President, his journey has been one of profound growth.

Following tradition, the ceremony also honored those who shone brightly over the past semester. "May you all become individuals of substance," the Principals urged. Under the spotlight, the award winners stood proud: some for academic excellence, others for community service, student leadership, or fostering warmth within the dormitories.

This week, the campus has been both quiet and vibrant. Quiet in the falling rain, yet vibrant with growth. The dreams sprouting today and the journeys beginning now are all taking deep root in this season of renewal.