Click the link to view the full version: WASCZ | An Experience of Self-discovery and Growth
The scholarship opportunity provided by the Wycombe Abbey International School Scholarship programme has truly changed my life. The lessons this overseas programme has taught me go far beyond what is possible in the classroom, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has shaped a more global perspective and greater appreciation for everything China has to offer.
Living far from home, one of the most valuable lessons I learnt was self-reliance. Adjusting to life without family and friends was initially incredibly daunting, but the shared struggle with my fellow scholars inside the programme, as well as the incredibly welcoming pastoral staff, created an unbreakable sense of community inside the school. These friendships, built on mutual support and shared challenges, will be lifelong and unique, giving us unforgettable experiences whilst still providing the highest calibre of secondary school education.
While language initially acted as a barrier to meeting Chinese students, it quickly became my gateway to a deeper cultural understanding, forming many close friendships that allowed me to gain a deeper appreciation of the language, values, and traditions that surround them. These personal connections and conversations allowed me to understand my surroundings much more, with the free exchange of ideas and perspectives creating a cultural bridge between members from opposite sides of the globe.
Beyond the people I met, our city-break experiences have allowed me to appreciate China’s vibrant culture coming to life. From exploring the historic streets of Beijing to the modern skyline of Shanghai and the cultural depth of Nanjing, every moment has been an opportunity to experience the richness of China firsthand. These experiences have allowed me to apply my understanding of China in practice, interacting with locals to better understand the stories and traditions that build these magnificent cities. These conversations have allowed me to better explore my passions in areas of further interest, such as traditional customs and urban planning.
The programme also allows students to leave their comfort zones and try many unique opportunities the school offers. My highlight was learning rowing, a sport that I would have never otherwise been able to discover a passion for. Whilst having had no prior experience, I was surrounded by so many like-minded, hard-working athletes, keeping me motivated day after day. I was even granted the opportunity to participate in the Henley Royal Regatta, arguably the most prestigious rowing event in the world. With the help of the school’s incredible rowing staff, we were thrown into training seven times a week, using the school’s extensive boathouse and lake. The whole process taught everyone involved lifelong lessons in commitment, discipline, and teamwork, giving me even more bonds through shared experiences and struggles.
The experience hasn’t come without its challenges. Balancing international A Levels with the demands of living halfway across the world and mastering a foreign language has been a struggle, yet with help from the teaching staff and other students, I have found myself thriving academically, even receiving an interview from Oxford University. Hurdles like this have fostered resilience and determination in every student, leaving us stronger and more confident in our academic and extracurricular pursuits.
The past year has been more than just a programme for me. It has been a transformative journey that has shaped me into the person I am today. This experience of self-discovery and growth is something I highly recommend to anyone interested in understanding and thriving in a Chinese environment and is willing to engage in all the opportunities the programme has to offer.
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