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Student S

Boarding School Admissions

Offer: 

  • Phillips Exeter Academy
  • St. Stephen’s Episcopal School TX

 

Interests: Music, architecture, painting

Personality traits: Creative thinking, strong self-motivation

Application profile: Aspiring architect dreaming of playing the clarinet on the moon

Application Journey

01. Childhood Dream of Architecture:

Since childhood, I’ve harbored a dream of becoming an architect, a passion that continues to grow. My fascination with architectural design blossomed through extensive travels, particularly inspired by Chongqing’s unique “8D Mountain City” style. Unlike conventional skyscrapers, Chongqing’s architecture integrates seamlessly with its natural landscapes of mountains and rivers, crafted through the locals’ adaptive creativity. This blend of nature and modern innovation left an indelible mark on me.

 

Under Foundation’s expert guidance, I attended Exeter’s summer school, deepening my architectural understanding. Encouraged by mentors, I embarked on creating a 3D model, choosing Chongqing’s Liziba Light Rail Station as my subject. This iconic structure, where light rails traverse through buildings, captured my imagination and posed significant technical challenges. Utilizing diverse architectural software and my artistic skills, I completed the intricate 3D model. Presenting this project during interviews affirmed my commitment to architectural excellence, envisioning these designs as future urban landmarks.

 

02. Clarinet Journey and Musical Passion:

For six years, mastering the clarinet has been central to my life’s narrative. Reflecting on Hegel’s analogy of music as “liquid architecture,” I recognize profound parallels between music and my architectural aspirations. Devoting extensive hours daily to practice—beginning with fundamental exercises and gradually mastering complex pieces—has cultivated both discipline and artistry within me.

 

At Foundation, my musical prowess was recognized, prompting the integration of music with charitable endeavors aligned with High Meadows’ community ethos. Through numerous charity concerts benefiting autistic children, I’ve witnessed music’s transformative power firsthand. These experiences fortified my dedication to using music as a medium for social good, believing in fostering inclusive communities and supporting children’s development through artistic expression.

 

03. Lessons from Application Experience:

My journey as a “successful applicant” to top boarding schools has taught me invaluable lessons. Contrary to popular belief, boarding schools don’t seek flawless applicants but rather individuals who authentically embody their passions and potential. Embracing my imperfections, such as my initial lack of athleticism and the perseverance needed to secure leadership roles, has underscored the importance of personal growth and resilience.

 

Each boarding school evaluates applicants through distinct lenses, seeking diverse qualities beyond academic excellence. There’s no universal formula for success; authenticity and personal growth are paramount. Sharing my insights with aspiring applicants, I emphasize the significance of being true to oneself throughout the application process, focusing on individual strengths and contributions rather than conforming to perceived ideals of perfection.

Consultant’s Insights

01. Explore various pathways, enhancing resilience in boarding school applications!

When planning a child’s application route, one principle we follow is to let them explore various pathways. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; tailor your child’s interests and cultivate them in multiple sports and arts projects.

 

Such an approach not only showcases your child’s diverse abilities and interests but also increases their chances of admission, effectively enhancing their resilience in boarding school applications. Our featured student in this issue is the showcasing of many talents such developing in music, architecture, and maintaining daily tennis training.

 

Families should be reminded that in the current highly competitive environment, applying to top 10 or 20 boarding schools has become increasingly challenging. If a student excels in just one aspect, it’s difficult to stand out amid the present emphasis on diverse talents. Schools prefer to admit well-rounded students, so they also pay close attention to a student’s performance in other areas, including leadership, artistic talent, and athletic achievements.

 

 

02. Combining artistic and athletic talents with charity, balancing hobbies and community activities.

The importance of charity activities in American high schools is self-evident. However, truly meaningful charity projects are not simply about physical labor. Boarding schools value projects that demonstrate academic prowess, leadership, social skills, and impact combined.

Applicants can integrate their interests with charity work, which becomes a meaningful endeavor. For example, applicants with musical talents can bring joy to those in need through concerts and performances, while those with athletic talents can participate in charity runs and bike rides organized by charitable organizations.

We firmly believe that when you give, you receive. Children not only gain a sense of responsibility and mission through their labor but also develop these abilities, which will shine in their future academic and professional careers.