Challenges and Growth

1.For academics, my scores for the subjects Chinese weren’t that ideal. Thus, I talked to my teacher several times about the tests and further improvements. I also remembered to ask for advice on the second test. I then worked harder during the second unit to balance my overall score on the semester one report card.

 

2.Through the process of application, my anxiety with public speaking decreased. With the practices and actual interview, I became less scared about sharing myself and also developed my improvization skills. This change originated from some of my interviewers, since their warmhearted and energetic personality reduced my anxiety.

 

3.Don't feel too stressed towards application, and don’t procrastinate everything until the deadline:( Also, lock your phone away when studying and take 5 minute rests after 25 minutes of work.

 

Memorable Moments

 

1.For the semester one report card, I was able to keep a consistent high score. The reason for this is that I always tried my best in all the tests and contacted my teachers immediately after the scores came if there is something wrong. For instance, I emailed my design teacher straight away after he gave me a score that did not match the quality of my work. I then chatted with him during class and was able to raise my score to the highest level. Other times I fail to raise my score, but the extra feedback my teachers gave really helped me to improve on the next test.

 

2.For time management, I always use a timer app during study periods. This app locks my phone when I put it on study mode, this thus prevents myself from playing my phone and procrastinating when I am supposed to be studying.

 

3.For emotion management, I am usually in a optimistic mood. However, I did feel stressed out about application sometimes, especially on the day before my letter of acceptance came out. I overcame this difficulty through the enouragements of my counselor and my parents. I also relaxed myself by playing video games.

 

Suggestions for Future Applicants

 

1.Finish Toefl testing with a score of 110+ before the start of eighth grade, and finish SSAT testing with a score of 95%+ before January.

 

2.Don't consider the interviews as a formal test and get stressed about the preparations; try to relax and chat lightheartedly with the interviewer as a friend.

 

3.Don't procrastinate the student essays like me:(

 

4.Choose schools that are a perfect match for you from the aspect of academics and personal interest. Don't be too stressed about applying to the best high schools in the world: You tried, you did your best, and that’s all there is to it.