Nicholas Z., a founding student at Harrow Shenzhen, has received prestigious offers from several elite universities. These include The University of Hong Kong’s Science Master Class (with only 26 global admits), the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), University College London (UK’s G5 Group), and 10+ top-tier institutions across the UK, US, and Hong Kong.
Let us take a closer look at his journey over the past five years at Harrow Shenzhen.
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Transfer to Harrow Shenzhen
Nicholas began his Harrow Shenzhen journey in Autumn 2020, stepping into a distinctly British educational environment. Amid the challenges of hybrid learning during the pandemic, he faced two key hurdles: adjusting to a fully English-speaking curriculum and finding the confidence to overcome his natural introversion.
I struggled to solve simple math equations and couldn’t even distinguish between the size of a cell and an atom.
Nicholas chuckled, the now-accomplished scholar, reflecting on his early struggles.
Harrow’s global faculty went beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Chemistry tutors demystified molecular kinetics, biology mentors decoded genetic complexities, and English teachers sparked an interest in the humanities for a STEM-focused mind.
Over five years, his notebooks evolved from pages filled with crimson corrections to intricate azure logic maps and emerald epiphanies. This transformation culminated in triple Olympiad medals in Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
I achieved things I once believed were unattainable. Without the support and opportunities, I wouldn’t be who I am today. At Harrow, I’ve been nurtured into the person I’ve become.
Crucible of Holistic Excellence
Harrow’s curriculum unveiled multidimensional horizons. As sports captain, Nicholas honed his leadership skills through basketball and volleyball leagues. Co-founding The Uncles, an a cappella group, he discovered the therapeutic power of music during charity concerts.
We had our first performance during Christmas 2020. Even though I can’t say it was our best.
These seemingly non-academic pursuits shaped my unique competitive edge. When discussing collaborative performances with autistic children during admissions interviews, he noticed a palpable resonance from admissions officers to his ethos of global citizenship.
The Way to His Dream School
Nicholas’s SAT score of 1570/1600 fuelled his quiet determination rather than complacency. He devoted himself to draughting research theses and crafting over 25 personalised personal statements.
High scores are superficial. What sustains me is Harrow Shenzhen’s academic rigour.
His decision to pursue biomedical science was deeply rooted in poignant familial narratives.
I come from a family of over 100 members. Among them, I have witnessed an inheritance pattern of cancer along with several other diseases. I do not want to see my family members suffer from these diseases. I also want to contribute to this world by advancing current biomedical or immunology-related technology.
Nicholas channels his family’s experiences into research, committed to advancing innovations in modern medical technology and making steady progress towards this goal.
Wisdom for Future Trailblazers
Graduation reflections reveal that Nicholas’ ultimate advice extends beyond admissions strategies.
Work hard every single day, gaining something bit by bit. You will notice the difference and make a difference, whether in your academics or just in life.
Left One: Nicholas
From the youth grappling with
equations at Qianhai Bay to the
aspiring medical innovator
at world-leading institutes,
Nicholas embodies
Harrow Shenzhen’s commitment to
“Excellence across All Areas”.
Harrow Shenzhen extends the warmest of welcomes to all prospective parents and pupils at its Open Events. You will have the chance to meet key staff, visit our outstanding facilities, interact with current pupils and see for yourselves just what makes our School so different.
