Fresh Faces, New Voices | International Academy Grade 10 Freshmen Speak
This September, the International Academy welcomed a new batch of students, who stepped into this new world with different dreams and expectations. To get to know the stories and thoughts of the new students, we invited a few classmates from the 10th-grade integrated class to share with us their study and life experiences at the International Academy over the past month~
Questions
&
Answers
Q1
How is studying at the International School different from what you imagined high school life would be like?
Studying at the International School is quite different from what I originally imagined high school would be. I thought high school would just be going to classes day after day, but here there are all kinds of extracurricular activities and clubs, and I can also express many of my little ideas.
— Xue, Grade 10 Integrated Class 1
A1
I thought high school would be really tough, and after lunch, we'd have to jump straight back into intense studying. I didn't expect the school to have a 40-minute nap time. This arrangement gives me enough time to rest, so I can go to afternoon classes with plenty of energy to learn, think, and explore.
— Huang, Grade 10 Integrated Class 1
A2
In my imagination, high school was a big class where teachers might not be able to pay attention to every student. But at the International School, every student gets more personalized attention from the teachers. They create study plans based on our interests, strengths, and weaknesses, and they also regularly have one-on-one talks with us to understand our study and life situations.
— Gao, Grade 10 Integrated Class 1
A3
Q2 Among the courses you've taken so far, which one do you like the most? Why?
Among all the courses, I have a special fondness for Japanese. This class feels like a magical key that opens up a whole new cultural world for me. From the first time I encountered Japanese with its unique pronunciation, I was deeply fascinated. Every kana feels like a symbol full of spirit, and together they form a beautiful and rhythmic language. — Gao, Class 2, Grade 1 Integration
A1 Among the courses I've taken so far, biology is my favorite. It feels very novel to me, like a window to the amazing natural world. Every class allows me to appreciate the mysteries and diversity of life. — Chen, Class 2, Grade 1 Integration
A2 I like the Japanese course I just started. The teacher uses a completely new way of teaching, which has sparked my interest in learning. I believe this course not only enriches my knowledge but also opens new doors for possible future international exchanges and career development. — Yang, Class 1, Grade 1 Integration
A3
Q3
High school courses suddenly increased in number and difficulty. In terms of studying, have you encountered any difficulties or challenges? How do you plan to overcome them?
After entering high school, the increase in course quantity and difficulty posed quite a challenge for my time management. To tackle this, I took the following measures: First, I made a detailed study plan, prioritizing daily tasks and estimating the time needed for each to ensure everything gets done on time. Second, I learned to make use of fragmented time, like reviewing some points during breaks. Additionally, I regularly adjust and optimize my study plan, flexibly arranging my time according to the actual situation to improve my time management skills.
—— Tang, Grade 10 Integrated Class 2
A1
High school studies require stronger language skills and logical thinking. So in class, I listen more carefully and think critically, and after class, I make sure to complete homework and consolidate what I've learned. So far, this method seems sustainable in the long run.
—— Huang, Grade 10 Integrated Class 1
A2
At first, sometimes I couldn't understand the stuff in class and couldn't keep up with the teacher. Now I've learned to note down these problems and quickly catch up with the next part of the lesson, then ask teachers or classmates about them during breaks. This has greatly improved my learning efficiency.
—— Chen, Grade 10 Integrated Class 2
A3
Q4
Which is your ideal university? What efforts are you prepared to make for it?
My ideal university is Ochanomizu. I will do my best to maintain excellent academic grades, especially in languages. I will take action and make continuous progress.
—— Gao, Grade 10 Integrated Class
A1
My ideal university is Nagoya University. I will improve my Japanese proficiency and pass the N1 exam, while also improving my English and taking the TOEFL exam to strive a high score.
—— Tang, Grade 10 Integrated Class 2
A2
My ideal university is Waseda University. I will study every course seriously and work hard improve my academic grades. During high school, I will focus on mastering basic knowledge while expanding my knowledge base to prepare for university studies.
—— Xue, Grade 10 Integrated 1
A3
The answers from the new students are full of longing and expectations for their new lives. Every student in Grade 10 will embark on a journey full challenges and opportunities here.
May every new student bravely explore, communicate actively, and constantly break through in the days ahead, finding their own stage at the International College