Students Admitted to Top Universities Share Their Application Experience
Moving from high school to a top university also involves developing new ways of thinking and understanding one's own goals. On the afternoon of March 25, the first-floor assembly hall in Desheng Building filled with students eager to hear from three older students admitted to Oxford and Imperial College London, as well as the University of Hong Kong. Their candid presentations covered application advice and personal development, academic work and their commitment to their interests. Younger students left with a clearer sense of direction and greater confidence.
Student Reflections
Learning from Older Students
Gao Jiawei
Last Wednesday afternoon, sunlight came through the assembly hall windows as three students recently admitted to top universities shared their experiences. We listened closely and learned about commitment to our interests and perseverance, alongside broad personal development.
I was impressed by the clarity of the Oxford admit's thinking. Her offer reflected many hours working with formulas and code. She had identified her direction in Grade 10 and chosen courses and competitions, along with activities, accordingly. Her notebook recording mistakes showed how carefully she worked to improve. I saw her admission as recognition of a deep academic commitment.
The student heading to HKU inspired me especially. She loves Biology for its exploration of life and has many other interests. As a photographer, she showed us the world she had captured and described helping film a music video for the documentary Stay with You Until Dawn. The video recorded companionship and growth. Working on it helped her observe and listen, appreciate everyday beauty and develop her own inner life. She also shared her dancing and singing: dance helps her experience physical rhythm and strength, while singing lets her express emotion. These interests have developed her resilience and communication, along with teamwork. I realized how different interests can support one another as part of broader development.
The session helped me understand that international university applications consider applicants' wider qualities. We should pursue academic depth and maintain curiosity, alongside developing our interests. Hobbies can contribute to individuality and open new possibilities.
I left with clearer goals and renewed motivation. I want to work diligently in my studies while continuing to explore what I love. Combining focus with a broad outlook will help me pursue my goals at a top university.
Bai Xiran
The graduates' presentations taught me a great deal. Li Tianxing and Fang Yuanxi explained their preparations openly, from activities to the details of writing essays, including the reasoning and work behind each decision. Their accounts clarified the application process and showed me the importance of careful preparation and planning.
I was especially moved by Li Ruohan. She was unwell and unable to speak, so she used AI narration to deliver her presentation. She thoughtfully explained how to discover academic interests and begin preparing application activities early. Her commitment and practical advice made a strong impression.
The session gave me concrete application guidance and examples of focused effort and enthusiasm. I will draw on their experience to plan ahead and work carefully, finding my academic direction and pursuing my goals.
Bai Xicheng
I learned a great deal about academic planning. The speakers advised Grade 10 students to explore different subjects and discover their interests. In Grades 11 and 12, students can investigate their chosen areas more deeply through relevant competitions or research, developing their strengths.
They advised checking each university's official admission requirements early, including AP requirements and expected grades, to plan our studies effectively. They also suggested beginning interview and written exam preparation in the second semester of Grade 11. Practicing English helps us introduce ourselves and express opinions clearly. Familiarity with common interview questions and mock interviews can improve preparation. For written exams, studying the relevant subjects develops reasoning and speed. Early preparation can help us approach the process confidently.
The speakers also emphasized extracurricular activities alongside grades. Volunteering, for example, provides experience and demonstrates responsibility and social awareness.
The session helped me recognize how planning and clear goals, supported by continued effort, can prepare me for applications to the universities I hope to attend.
Wang Yiran
Listening carefully to the speakers left me admiring their achievements and feeling inspired by their experiences.
Their admissions to Oxford and Imperial College London, together with the University of Hong Kong, reflected impressive abilities. These top universities are places many students hope to study.
They described their learning and exam preparation, alongside the commitment needed to pursue their goals. Their experiences showed the importance of practical effort and clear direction, supported by perseverance through difficulties.
I have decided to learn from them and establish clear academic goals soon. I will approach my studies diligently and progress through consistent effort. When difficulties arise, I will face them with determination and keep working toward my goals.
Sharing Experience with the Next Class
By passing on their experience, the speakers expressed the school's Better Me, Better World philosophy. Their accounts helped younger students understand university applications and encouraged thoughtful, positive choices.
We hope students draw encouragement from these examples and pursue clear goals through practical effort. Maintaining enthusiasm and courage can help them prepare for top universities and wider opportunities.