In a city as vibrant and dynamic as Beijing, it’s no surprise that its youth are equally remarkable. Our new series, “Outstanding Teens of Beijing,” shines a spotlight on the city’s most inspiring young individuals. From self-motivated business owners to those who have started well-recognized clubs and organizations, these kids are making significant impacts in their communities. Join us as we share their stories, celebrate their achievements, and learn from their incredible dedication and passion.

This time we’re honored to share the story of five students from Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) who did exactly what DCB has always encouraged their students to do – to think outside of the box and to become leaders in their community. Tim Z., Ethan N., Jason Z., Kaion Z., and Jayden N. are the founders of Project Visionary, a non-profit organization currently within DCB that’s dedicated to bettering the lives of visually impaired teens in China. The group is working to expand and register Project Visionary as a nationally recognized organization.

It all started when this group took part in a competition called China Thinks Big (CTB), a national research and innovation competition for high school students that provides an opportunity for students around the country to demonstrate their intellectual creativity by tackling a societal issue of choice posed by Harvard professors and representatives from other top institutions. The competition is judged by the Harvard Association for U.S.-China Relations, a Harvard-based student organization, and has over 10,000 participants take part in the challenge to share their intellectual creativity to tackle important societal issues. Some past projects have been impactful as well, influencing local policy, garnering wide media coverage, becoming case studies in some Chinese college entrance exams, and even being adopted as bills in the provincial People’s Congress.

The DCB team decided to focus their project on a very specific group of people with a much-needed goal in mind – financial literacy for visually impaired teens.

“Initially, we wanted to focus on visually impaired workers regarding financial literacy. However, after a preliminary interview that we did with a visually impaired worker, we realized that it might be not as effective if we focused on an older demographic, as they were somewhat hesitant to share their experiences due to fear that they might face consequences from their employers for speaking out. Thus, we decided that we should focus on high school students with visual impairments instead, as we could educate them before they entered the workforce, providing them with sufficient knowledge to avoid workplace exploitation. Furthermore, we identified a gap in accessible financial education for this age group. By focusing on teens, we aimed to create lasting impacts before they enter adulthood,” the team shares with jingkids.

The team created the book Grasping Future: A Financial and Legal Guide for the Visually Impaired Youth. In nine chapters,  the team utilized several Chinese-to-braille programming translators and based the content on the needs they identified in their primary research and advice they received from Beijing Hongdandan, a local charity that provides cultural programming services and advocacy for the visually impaired. “The book was approved by Beijing Hongdandan and teaches basic skills such as budgeting, differentiating needs and wants, financial goals, how to get microloans in case of an emergency, and more. It’s all very basic skills but crucial for teens transitioning into society,” says the team.

Teaming up with Beijing Hongdandan, the team conducted surveys and interviews with over 800 members of the general public. Their research showed that over 60 percent of the people that they interviewed agreed that the rights of visually impaired individuals in financial laws were indeed a neglected gap that needed to be filled, with 70 percent agreeing that a braille handbook on financial literacy and labor laws for the visually impaired was essential.

The team also discovered through interviews with over 400 visually impaired invidiauals that nearly 80 percent lacked an adequate understanding of financial laws, while over 72 percent shared the unfair treatment that they have received in their places of employment due to a lack of understanding of what their rights are.

Thus, the team’s goal became even more laser-focused. Project Visionary aims to empower visually impaired teens by providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to make informed financial decisions and avoid future exploitation due to disability. They help teens by offering resources like braille guidebooks and podcasts that cater to their specific needs. There is a significant need for such resources due to the limited availability of tailored financial education for visually impaired individuals, specifically visually impaired teenagers. Creating the braille guidebook involved extensive research, collaboration with braille experts, and integrating feedback from visually impaired individuals. It took a lot of commitment and dedication from the team members.

Grasping Future: A Financial and Legal Guide for the Visually Impaired Youth is now distributed across 20 schools in China, reaching over 500 visually impaired students. To reach even more teens, the team has also launched a podcast to discuss the topics found in the braille guidebook, including topics such as financial basics, legal rights, and exploitation prevention. The book has been well-received, providing an accessible learning platform for the visually impaired community who prefer auditory resources.

So what’s next for these young visionaries who are out to change the world? “In the next five years, we envision expanding Project Visionary’s reach nationwide, developing more resources, and forming partnerships with additional organizations and even other schools to enhance our impact and sustainability. Currently, we are preparing to present at the Special Education Network and Inclusion Association (SENIA) international conference in November, which will be a great opportunity to increase awareness about our project. However, as we are all seniors in our final year of high school, we will be passing down our organization to a younger leadership team next year. This will ensure that our project can continue even after we leave for college.”

To tune in to the next podcast from the Project Visionary team, scan the QR code on the poster below.

Inspired? We know we are! If you’re a teen with an incredible achievement, let us know! Get in touch with Mina Yan via email at minayan@beijing-kids.com or on WeChat (ID: Wilhelmina87).

Images: Project Visionary

Summer is a time of adventure, relaxation, and new experiences. In this series, we asked our readers to share their summer stories. From exciting travels to peaceful moments at home, from learning new skills to forging precious memories with loved ones, every tale is a window into the diverse and wonderful ways people spent their summers.

Let’s find out more about 15-year-old Ethan Hu’s family adventure to Vietnam. 

Late May, I was caught up in the abrupt decision that our family would visit Vietnam over the summer, just as I was entering my breezy and carefree summer break vibes after a good few months of high school. Despite my conventional aptitude for traveling and wandering through the multidimensional cultures and traditions around the world, my mentality coming off from school with my attributed perceptions of the Southeast Asian country just didn’t move me. However, considering the group’s arrangement and my tendency to unearth exoticness, I packed my bags rather involuntarily, but before I knew it, we were already en route to Hanoi, Vietnam. I cannot stress this enough, but Hanoi utterly shattered what I vaguely perceived of the country, and I have no doubt it will shed some light on you too

Prior to our visit to Hanoi, the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site sitting on the northeastern gulf of the country, were first on our list of must-visits. Despite the destination’s popularity and my family’s unflappable determination to see this unique geographical site, I was never someone easily moved by the capabilities of Earth. However, I can tell you that I formulated and envisioned all of the hypothetical possibilities Ha Long Bay could take, but none of them scraped the grandeur of the bay of descending dragons.

As our family was aboard on the cruise from the port, we were treated to a mundane but delectable feast of locally caught seafood and other traditional Vietnamese delicacies. Perhaps you could argue that Vietnamese cuisine is not to be compared with fine French gastronomy or fresh Japanese omakase, but it is utter disrespect to denounce the flavorsome and traditional dishes resembling most Asian home cooking. Once our hunger was satiated well, the cruise journeyed down to the core of Ha Long Bay and my eyes were about to be cherished well just as we did with our stomachs.

As I carefully climbed up the ladder to the top deck of the cruise, reflecting into my eyes was indeed none of my hypothetical thoughts but a bed of emerald water embedded with a kaleidoscope of karst limestone sculptures, each majestically unique and introspective of the magical nature. The smooth waves riding the jade sea pulsed rhythmically upon our cruise, harmonizing the series of unfortunate turmoils that once beset the land while subtly recalling the spiritedness of the legendary dragon who guides the way of the people. I nonchalantly leaned onto the fences on the side of the cruise as I rarely find this level of solace and tranquility in school or in the city to fall into.

From the ancient capital of Thang Long (now Hanoi) to the shores of Ha Long Bay, the dragon synonymous with the heritage and identity of the Vietnamese people drops down from heaven and descends into the water of the Tonkin Gulf. His claws sculpt the splendid landscape of the limestone islets and wild caves planted within the water, as his body, bearing the essence of the Vietnamese spirits, assimilates into the emerald water permeating his soul to the people residing on his land.

Despite the country’s resonance with the spirits of the dragon, Vietnam didn’t evade its legacies and turmoils ranging from foreign invasions, and colonization, to internal conflicts. Mythologically, on the polar opposite of Ha Long Bay (Ha Long means descending dragon), the capital city Hanoi, previously named Thang Long (Thang Long means ascending dragon), manifests the past quite blatantly.

Interestingly, the Hỏa Lò Prison relic we visited on the last day of our trip was most deeply ingrained in my memories for its values beyond the superficial layer. Originally a prison utilized by French Indochina colonists to regulate political prisoners, it held 2,000 political inmates under French standards at the height of the Vietnamese Independence Revolution. As I walked meticulously through the gates of the Hỏa Lò Prison, crossed the various chambers now showcasing various artifacts, and steadily scrutinized the various plaques, I felt an unfeigned chilliness and bitterness. It wasn’t for the narrow corridors, the metallic barbed wires, nor was it for anything physically present.

Rather, it was the prison’s intangible manifestation of Vietnamese nationalism and resilience which are entrenched and settled in the heritages of the people through the hundreds of years of foreign invasions and other internal turmoils. The prison illustrated not only the mere act of resisting colonial rule but also the unwavering spirit, unyielding endurance, and encouraging hope exemplified in spite of the situations they are put in. It was exactly the efforts and characters during the French Resistance era that finally bore independence upon the country, which had suffered over the past one thousand years. Hỏa Lò Prison relic, now still standing as a museum, is not only a touristy spot for foreigners like me but also serves to the Vietnamese people as a poignant reminder of their past and how far they’ve come to be where they are. The prison is a physical demonstration of Vietnamese nationalism, the struggle for independence, and its legacy to be passed on to generations to come.

In most travelers’ perceptions, Vietnam doesn’t nearly elicit the same level of enthusiasm as France, Switzerland, or Japan would. However, it was a critical recognition personally to simply appreciate the diversity of culture and heritage across this globe. There are over 200 countries and regions across the place we all call home, and every single one of them is exclusively exceptional and particular in its own way for you to explore. Over the summer, I learned about the interconnectedness between the wilderness and the heritage of Vietnam while educating myself on the nationalism and cultural resistance of the people residing on the luscious land. As you delve deep into the distinctive destinations across the globe, there are always elements individually fascinating for you, and always will there be a worthy travel story for you to tell!

Images: Ethan Hu

Summer is a time of adventure, relaxation, and new experiences. In this series, we asked our readers to share their summer stories. From exciting travels to peaceful moments at home, from learning new skills to forging precious memories with loved ones, every tale is a window into the diverse and wonderful ways people spent their summers.

Let’s find out what 12-year-old Margaret Yang from Beijing City International School did (aside from interning with us at jingkids).

The US East Coast has always been where I wanted to visit ever since I started following vloggers based in New York, and the fact that my travels for the past four years were all in China made my desire for a trip to the East Coast even stronger. After my parents informed me that I was admitted to the University of Pennsylvania’s elite summer program and would also be touring New York City before, and Washington D.C. and Boston after the program, I was elated. When Aug 1 arrived and my 6am alarm buzzed, I headed to the airport with maximum enthusiasm.

New York was a completely different vibe from what I experienced on the West Coast. Everyone on the streets seemed very focused on what they were doing, and I, of course, did my best to blend in, other than the fact that instead of working hard, my job was to play hard. The first day was filled with all the touristy activities: taking pictures with the Wall Street Bull, going on the ferry to sightsee at the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge, ascending the New World Trade Center… I also got to tour the home of one of the world’s best business schools: New York University, aka NYU.

Because NYU doesn’t have a campus, I asked the student who guided my tour what student life was like. She said that it was a typical New Yorker life, as going to class was like work and everything else, even taking the subway, even though it could be terrifying. As I had already fallen in love with the vibes of Manhattan, NYU was pretty attractive.

The second day started off with a tour of Columbia University, and one thing was stuck in my mind forever about one name, Brigham, that was carved on top of the library building on campus. Carl Brigham was the founder of the SAT, a standardized test that all students applying to American universities will have to take. The student of Columbia who guided the tour said that this name receives a lot of hate on campus but definitely acts as a source of motivation for hard work for students. One thing that I loved about Columbia’s campus was that there was this statue that can spin that sits beside the Columbia School of Law’s building, and it is called The Tooth. The statue weighs 842 pounds and I am proud to announce that I made it spin by pushing it all by myself! Right beside Columbia’s campus was a fast food chain that I was longing to try: Shake Shack. I got the Shroom Burger with the crinkle-cut fries and the burger was delectable. The cheese that pools inside of the fried mushroom patty made it an incredible experience.

After lunch, I made my way to the place I had been dreaming of visiting: Times Square. The billboards were exactly how I imagined – vibrant, dynamic, and lively. I saw a lot of my favorite celebrities – Simone Biles and Gisele Bündchen – on the billboards and even envisioned myself being on one of them because there was actually a board area reserved for tourists to put their selfies on, but I didn’t do that because I had to make time for the next location of my journey, which was the Met Museum.

Before I went to New York I did some research on Chinese artifacts there and one of the most famous ones was the Medicine Buddha’s Changes painting. More details of the work’s arrival at the museum and its artistic details can be found elsewhere, but all I can say about it is that history can be hard to comprehend thoroughly from different aspects and stances, however, modern society is the way it is for a reason, and all we need to do now is to respect what has happened. After visiting the Met and getting a bit emotional, I headed to Central Park, where I was on the swing for ten minutes straight because it was so fun. I had to leave, unfortunately, due to a shower of rain, which delayed my travels by 20 minutes, but experiencing the weather was, again, part of the authentic New York experience (I am hyperaware that I sound like someone madly in love with New York but that’s because I am).

The third day started off in New Jersey, with a tour of Princeton University. The cool part of the tour was that I got to sit on one of the tigers in front of Nassau Hall and that I got to play ping pong in one of the buildings. After the tour, I was on the bus to Philadelphia. When I arrived, I also made time to tour Independence Place and the Liberty Bell, and after that, it was time for the potential highlight of my entire trip: Walmart shopping. Yes, that was on my list of things to do in Philadelphia. I have been to my local Walmart numerous times before it closed, but the experience I had in Philadelphia was completely different. Maybe it was because of the placement of the products, or maybe it was because of the lively atmosphere, but the experience made me realize how little I was experiencing in this world and how much more I am missing out on. Later in the afternoon, I arrived at Penn and got myself ready for the upcoming days of learning.

Learning at Penn was incredibly different to how I was learning at school: The teachers explained concepts and examples in so much more detail and made learning so much more engaging and fun. I made so many new friends throughout the camp experience who shared the same interests and passion as me, which made me feel more included and confident in the environment I was being put into, which I think was an important factor in the success of my studies during the summer camp.

After the camp, the next stop on my trip was Washington D.C., and I visited Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the George Washington Monument. Those were places that were on my list of visits as well, and seeing them in real life and combining them with what I learned about American history and how these remarkable political leaders helped shape the governmental systems and the way America is nowadays allowed me to comprehend the information I learned better. The dish I ate for lunch that day was also related to an important event in American history, the Vietnam War. A lot of the refugees of the Vietnam War settled in the States and a lot of them in D.C., so there are a lot of Vietnamese restaurants in D.C. that were also very authentic, which I believe is true as the pho I ate that day was very flavorful.

After my trip to D.C., I then flew to Boston, which was the last stop of my journey.

In the morning, I toured Harvard University. Although a lot of Harvard’s buildings are outside of campus, such as the medical school buildings and the business school buildings, the calm and relieving atmosphere created by the bricks of the buildings and the nature scene all around campus was already a very pleasant experience.

In the afternoon, I headed to MIT for a tour there. Surprisingly, even though MIT is a school that is known for its superior achievements in the sciences, the buildings on campus were filled with an artistic feel.

The sculptures, colors, and designs that can be seen around campus almost made me think that I was in an art school, but the way MIT names their classrooms brought me back to reality. In every building, they simply call each classroom by Arabic numerals. This made me realize how simple but creative life could be, by making the necessary minimal and enjoying the simple joys that bring maximum gratefulness. The view of the Charles River and Boston seen from behind the main building of the MIT campus was breathtaking, and as a person who has always been terrified of bugs and unknown species found in grass, I somehow managed to do a cartwheel in the grass.

MIT was the last university I toured on my trip and the last official stop of my journey was at Quincy Market. Quincy Market was filled with delicious chocolate chip cookies (yes I have a sugar allergy, but they were absolutely irresistible so I ate them and took allergy medicine afterward, don’t worry), creamy lobster rolls that I, of course, needed to try when in New England, and delicate hand-made jewelry that is a perfect finishing touch to any outfit. I ended my journey with a satisfying meal at Outback Steakhouse and was on my way to the airport when I was greeted by perhaps the most stunning sunset I have ever seen in my entire life.

That was the end of my trip to the East Coast this year, filled to the brim with blissful memories to last forever.

We hope you’ve enjoyed these wonderful summer tales. Don’t hesitate to share your own adventures with us. 

Images: Margaret Yang

“Finally, the exhibition is over and I can graduate elementary school! However, I heard from the Chinese teacher that the Chinese homework given in middle school is ten times the amount that it was in fifth grade! I also heard that there are eight subjects in middle school, and they all have grades given that matter to the semester grade. I also heard…” That was me in Grade 5, and little did I know that middle school was quite different from what I imagined.

Ever since I graduated fifth grade, which marked the end of my time in elementary school, I could not imagine what sixth grade or the rest of middle school would be like. Would it be full of stress and pressure? Or would there maybe be some occasional fun projects like I had in fifth grade?

When I got to middle school, the first big difference was that every single assessment and assignment was graded. As an IB student, elementary school did not have any grades that were given weekly. They were grades that were given at the end of the semester. However, because of this grading system, there would be no tolerance for a bad attitude when doing homework, as every assessment would count toward your semester grade in every subject.

I’m currently an incoming eighth grader at Beijing City International School (BCIS). We also have a system that awards students with an average semester grade that is higher than 5.7 for an “Honor,” and if the semester grade is higher than 6.3, it would be a “High Honor,” and the semester grade is the average of all the grades of all the final grades of all the subjects, which means that there is not one subject that a student can “give up on,” as all subjects matter when it comes to the final semester grade.

This system is also something that didn’t appear in elementary and it ensures that I do my best in every aspect of school, which is something I wasn’t used to at first, but as time went on I got used to it, and I have excelled in my studies in every subject. My peers often complain about how demanding the IB environment is, but they will always do the assignment very diligently.

Chloe L, an eighth grade student at BCIS, who almost always gets high grades and is in the same grade level as me, shared that “fifth graders have to get themselves ready for the vigorous environment and stay up late for big assessments!” Chloe’s friend Evelyn S, another eighth grade student at BCIS, also gets high grades and agrees that “even though I was not in BCIS in fifth grade, sixth grade was so different than elementary school because there were so many more assessments. No matter if it’s a formative assessment or summative assessment, it all counts!”

Everyone’s heard of those dreaded tween years. The 2003 film Thirteen gave parents anxiety at the idea of their once sweet little girls succumbing to peer pressure and bad influences at school. While it’s true that there are middle or high school students around the world who have adopted negative habits, at my school, fortunately, I have never witnessed any of that happen.

Another big difference that I experienced was the emphasis on extracurricular activities. Of course, middle and high school students will not only need to excel in their studies but also participate in or maybe even initiate extracurricular activities that they are passionate about.

I signed myself up for a handful of extracurricular activities back in sixth grade but didn’t participate in any because I lost interest and didn’t see the importance of participating in them back then. However, in seventh grade, I started to not only participate in multiple activities but also initiated three of my own: my Taylor Swift Club, a running club, and a secret venture that may be releasing soon.

I realized that it is very easy to view extracurriculars as resume-fillers, but as you participate in more activities you might see your interests starting to develop, and that is when you will find these activities are not only interesting, but whenever you work on something for it, it will seem like a break rather than it being stressful. This type of mindset allowed me to have a new take on middle school and the tasks that I had to finish along the way.

Other than the work that students would have to endure, parents might also need to communicate with teachers more about their child’s performance and how to help them constructively in a new environment.

Even though the assessment criteria are standardized by the IB, some teachers have their own style and perception of the criteria and way that students should be taught, thus, communication with teachers done by parents is just as important as communication done by students with their teachers.

“Teachers tend to be more detailed and objective in their explanations to parents than to those done to students,” my dad concluded, and he advises that all parents communicate actively with the teacher of the subject that the child is struggling with, as that allows the teacher to talk about their genuine thoughts and opinions on not only the students but also the subject and their style of teaching.

Images: Margaret Yang, Wikipedia

Do you have a teen at home who’s an aspiring doctor? If you do, then this is an event that they can’t miss out on! Oasis International Hospital will be hosting the first-ever Oasis Pre-Med Club on Nov 11.

Participating teens will learn how to suture wounds, which is a vital healthcare skill. They’ll also learn building blocks to understand a doctor’s necessary thinking processes. Participants will also explore the steps to becoming a doctor and the skills one needs. Dr. Vera, an international GP at Oasis International Hospital, will also share some of her experiences as a doctor.

The club is open to English-speaking teenagers ages 13-18 and lasts for about 1.5 hours.

There are limited spaces available. Scan the QR code below and sign up before Nov 7.

This club was initiated by Maggie Kang, a student at the British Royal School who participated in a summer internship at Stanford University which she will talk about at the OASIS Pre-Med Club. Read more about her experience here.

So how much does this one-of-a-kind experience cost? NOTHING! It’s completely free to teens who have a genuine interest in becoming a doctor.

Images: Maggie Kang, Pexels

My name is Runxuan Kang, a 16-year-old student at Beijing Royal School. My interests span public speaking, competitive darts, and a deep-rooted passion for medicine. I aspire to pursue a major in Biology, with the ultimate goal of entering the medical field.

Finding SASI

I discovered the program while conducting online research for top summer programs tailored for high school students interested in medicine. My admiration for Stanford University led me to pay special attention to programs affiliated with the institution. What sets SASI apart from other medical programs is its emphasis on experiential learning. Unlike programs that focus solely on academic knowledge, SASI offers a wealth of hands-on activities. These include opportunities to visit Stanford hospitals, utilize the most advanced medical equipment, and engage in simulations designed to teach basic crisis management skills.

What is SASI?

The Stanford Clinical Science, Technology, and Medicine Summer Internship is a two-week program designed for high school and premedical students. The first week serves as an introduction, covering the basics of the health care system, patient-centered care, and emerging technologies in digital health. Concurrently, students begin collaborative capstone projects in collaboration with university animators. The second week is more hands-on, as students undergo CPR certification training and take part in immersive learning sessions in various specialized fields such as crisis management. The program culminates in a formal presentation of their capstone projects to a panel of experts.

Capstone project

Our capstone project focuses on mitigating the psychological trauma that young patients often experience during hospital stays, aiming to reduce the risk of Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Collaborating with an animator from Hong Kong Baptist University, our team developed a two-pronged approach to make the hospital environment more engaging and less intimidating for children.

The project was inspired our e-patient Emily Parks, a behavioral and patient advocate who founded POP!—Pissed Off Patients—to enlighten healthcare professionals about the prevalence and impact of medical PTSD. Drawing on insights gained throughout the Stanford Clinical Science, Technology, and Medicine Summer Internship and from various experts, we seek to enhance the healthcare experience holistically. We believe that addressing both the emotional and cognitive needs of young patients through visual storytelling and environmental transformation can substantially ease the anxieties and fears that often accompany hospital visits.

Utilizing engaging animated episodes featuring our central character, we planed to simplify various hospital procedures, thereby reducing patient anxiety and improving understanding. These episodes will be accessible through our dedicated YouTube channel and social media platforms. Simultaneously, we intend to revamp the hospital environment by introducing “Space Exploration”-themed accessories, such as casts and lights, to make the clinical setting more inviting and less intimidating for young patients. Through these initiatives, we are committed to provide a more comforting hospital experience for children, addressing both their cognitive and sensory need. At the end of the program, our capstone project was awarded the best animation.

Personal insight

SASI provided me with invaluable insights into the qualities essential for becoming a healthcare professional. During the course of the program, guest speakers who have either experienced medical journeys personally or work in the healthcare system helped us realize the vital element of forming emotional bonds with patients. While mastering clinical skills and treatments is crucial, it’s only part of the equation. The program underscored the importance of empathy and compassion in patient care, teaching me that healing goes beyond just administering medications or performing procedures. It involves truly understanding and connecting with patients to achieve comprehensive well-being.

 Becoming part of the SASI family

The SASI program is accessible to students from around the world, whether you are an international student or a U.S. citizen. To apply, you can visit the official Stanford SASI Program website: https://med.stanford.edu/anesthesia/education/SASI.html. The application package must include two essays and your academic transcripts. If you’re an international student, an additional language transcript is needed to verify your linguistic competence. For this year, the deadlines for early decision were January 7 and January 27. The regular decision deadlines were February 28 and March 7. Make sure to stay updated for the next application cycle to seize this opportunity.

Images: Maggie Kang

Wrizing is not just for Gen Z, but for everyone. Wrizing will cultivate a community of aspiring and current writers. I’m Gen Z and the majority of people in the executive team will be as well, as the target audience for the executive and general team is middle school, high school and university students.

I founded Wrizing as a platform for people to share and voice their thoughts and writing in a safe and accepting community. But the unique thing about Wrizing is that it’s not just a magazine, but an amalgam of opportunities. There will be writing-related events, workshops, competitions, performances, and more!

As applications have recently begun coming in, this article will explain the origin, mission, and visions of Wrizing, as well as the various roles and timeline. For non-applicants, this will allow you to see whether you want to be a part of the Wrizing community!

Why me and why now? My name is Helena 石榴, aged 18, and I’m currently taking a gap year! I’ve always wanted to create a writing community, but never had the chance to due to high school exams and university applications. Therefore, one of the reasons behind my gap year decision is to complete some of my goals and wishes before I enter university and the work field. (By the way, I wrote an article about my gap tear in the jingkids 2022 issue, which will be out soon!)

If you haven’t come across one of my jingkids articles yet, you might be wondering what makes me qualified.

Here are some related qualifications:

• Published Poet: {Nectare} poetry book, June 2021
• Hong Kong Young Writers Awards: 1st place, 2022
• Co-founder of a Youth Charity Org (Art+Charity 艺+益公益基金)
• Unit-E Magazine Head Column Editor
• jingkids Magazine Intern (as teen writer in 2021, as editor in 2022)
• 菁 kids Graduate Summit 2022 speaker
• Inc. China Magazine Issue 09.2021: on the cover + interviewed
• Miss Culture & Tourism of the World 2021
• Numerous public speaking + MC/anchor experiences
• Project Nightingale (migrant kids music + English education) treasurer
• DCB’s Alleyn House Prefect + won House Cup
• Co-founder of DCB’s first Philosophy Club
• Choir President + orchestra principle cellist

Origin:
In high school, I dedicated a lot of blood and sweat to writing, acquiring as many opportunities as possible. Yet, there were many things I looked for but couldn’t find, and thus Wrizing was born!

Mission:
To help aspiring writers
To provide free education
To create a loving community
To boost writers’ confidence
To raise awareness
To provide a platform for all
To let our voices be heard

Vision:
We are a community of rising writers, using our voices to raise awareness and bring attention to prominent matters. At the same time, we also record and share the small beauties of life and the wonders of writing.

Well, how does Wrizing work? Anyone can email their article/writing to Wrizing (email to be released during the official launch), and our teams will review, edit, and beautify (with pics and formatting) the article. Afterwards, it will be published in our weekly posts via the website and official WeChat account. Email subscribers and social media followers will get notified with an update and summary of the articles.

In regards to the email subscription, no fees are required. I strongly believe that everyone should have access to a platform to read and share information, hence I’m making Wrizing a non-profit. All proceeds will either be used to book venues and print the yearly magazine, or be donated to other education-related charities. But please subscribe and follow us to receive updates and be the first to know about our other fun offerings!

Timeline:
Sep 12 – 26: Applications for executive team and general team
Oct 3: Official launch of Wrizing
Oct: Website design, official WeChat account + social media setup, and more.
Nov: website launch, email subscription signups, outreach events, weekly posts begin.
Dec: first writing competition
Jan: first writing workshop, performance, and more!

What’s the difference between the executive and general team? To summarize, the general team is led by the corresponding exec, who will oversee their team. There will be a group chat for each general team, with both me and the exec in it, as well as a bigger group chat for all members. In the exec group chat, I will oversee updates from them, and we will have virtual weekly/biweekly meetings.

Allocations for the exec team will be tight, but for some bigger and slightly more intensive roles — like PRO, Operations, Editing, Translations — there will be co-leaders! On the other hand, for the general team, if you apply, you’re very likely to get in! This is because I want more people to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and explore their interests. But at the same time, the application will allow me to review where their interests lie and their genuineness.

The reason why I’m making exec applications 14+ is because certain things (like making calls, booking venues, outreach, etc.) require a certain age. Therefore, the general team will not only gain the skills required for future exec team applications, but also write and work with a team on the whole. But most importantly, members will be a part of a tight-knit community that will aid their growth and exploration, while contributing to the big community one page at a time.

Regardless, there is definitely something for you, especially as both teams can be a part of the editing process. If there’s an article you really want to edit but are not a part of the editing team, then you can reach out to the editing head and join the small group. For each article, there will be a small group of five dedicated to reviewing and editing. But please note that we will be receiving lots of articles so there is a bundle of opportunities!

Executive team roles:
Secretary: take meeting notes, organize docs & paperwork, send/reply to emails, make calls
Financial Officer: budgeting, inventory, expenses, revenue projection, Excel sheet management
Public Relations Officer: press release, promotional material, campaigns, build/maintain positive relationships with other orgs + Wrizing’s overall image, seek opportunities + outreach
Media: manage social media, publish articles onto website + other SM accounts
Design: webpage design, article + magazine layout, logos, merchandise
Operations: production management, events coordination, analyze data, logistics, strategy, research
Sustainability: sustainable production & events
Translations: translate articles into different languages (Chinese, Korean, German, French, etc.)
Editing: oversee the editing aspect, briefly summarize each article, Excel spread sheet

Applications end on Sep 26, which is in two weeks. This is a also a good experience to add to your resume!

Here is the link for the executive team application:

And for the general team.

Lastly, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me via email (Helenaslpom@outlook.com), WeChat (Helenaslpom), Instagram (Helenaslpom), or 小红书 (Helenaslpom).

KEEP READING: Beijing Teens Have Spoken: What Makes a Teacher Great?

Images: Pexels

Returning to another semester of school, most of us probably starting to worry about something which can be summed up with two words: University Applications. Questions like “What am I going to major in?”, “Should I have a dream school?”, and “What about extracurriculars?” start popping up in your head more and more as you approach the final countdown to college.

Well, you’re in luck. Because I have rounded up some of the most brilliant seniors and juniors to give you some tried-and-true advice!

Q1: How do you determine your dream school/college?

Linda H. a senior at Beijing City International School (BCIS) in the IBDP program says:

“For me, I have to see whether or not the school has a rigorous and famous program for what I want to study. But more importantly, I look at how well my values are embodied by the school mission, and how well I can fit into the atmosphere and the school body.”

Q2: Am I still able to have time to myself (aka fun) in my junior & senior years of high school?

Juyeon K. a senior at BCIS in the IBDP program says:

“Of course, you can! As long as you don’t procrastinate and find the balance between academics and extracurricular activities (more on that later in Q5 & Q6). Especially kids who are currently enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Programme, don’t procrastinate on your EE and your IAs. You will thank me later.”

Q3: How do I determine what I want to major in?

Martin W. a senior at Tsinghua International School (THIS) in the AP program says:

“I determined what I wanted to major in through extracurricular activities. My advice is for you to join some clubs and see what you are genuinely passionate about! For me, I joined Model United Nations in my freshmen year and that influenced me to major in political science/international relations.”

Q4: And what if I can’t decide my major? How do I choose my courses?

Jenny a junior at Pakistani Embassy College Beijing (PECB) in the IGCSE program says:

“I think choosing courses/classes you’re particularly interested in or something you’re good at is a good option if you’re still unsure of what you wish to major in. Who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself wanting to major in one of those courses/classes as the year goes on.”

Q5: Should I be engaged in a lot of extracurricular activities? Or should I be studying 24/7?

Caroline H. a senior at Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) in the IBDP program says:

“Yes, you should definitely be engaged in extracurriculars. Most universities take extracurricular activities really seriously because it shows you can contribute to their community. On the other hand, although studying is vital it shouldn’t take up your life. So, find some time for yourself and balance it out.”

Q6: I want to participate in extracurricular activities, but there’s so much I want to do.  Which ones should I choose?

Martin W. a senior at THIS in the AP program says:

“Choose the ones you think are beneficial for the pursuit in your major. If you still have extra time, participate in 1-2 more activities that relax yourself. Extracurricular activities should never overwhelm you to a large extent!”

Rachel B. a Y11 at Harrow Beijing (HBJ) in the IGCSE program adds:

“Also, choose a wider range. As in you could do one in sports like volleyball, one in academic or subject based like Model United Nations, and so on.”

Q7: How important are internships? And how can I get one?

Kathy S. a Y11 at Harrow Beijing (HBJ) in the IGCSE program says:

“Internships are not obligatory, but there’s no harm in doing an internship that is relevant to your future major. It’s also something you can put on your personal statement if you decide to apply for UK universities. There are multiple ways to get one. You can ask your parents and your teachers for relevant resources, or even contact the firms directly.”

Q8: Which program is better? AP (advanced placement), IB (international Baccalaureate),

IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education)?

Juyeon K.

“IB requires much effort and time, and you may not have enough time for extracurriculars or internship opportunities because of EE, TOK, and IAs. AP is more standardized than IB since IB students only get predicted scores not the actual ones. Taking AP may allow you to spend more time refining your university application and partake in extracurriculars.”

Kathy S.

“IGCSEs are primarily for the UK universities while IB has more global recognition. In IGCSE, students usually take 10 subjects in preparation for the A-levels where it’s condensed down to 3. So, the A-levels/IGCSE is really focused and for people who have a solid idea of what they want to do in the future.”

Q9: Is the university ranking the most important thing to consider when choosing where to apply to?

Linda H.

“Definitely not. No matter where I go, I’ll still pursue my passion. For me personally, location is what matters. Because I want to study in Boston, all of the universities I had on my list were located in Boston. While people may say ranking is important, and it is to a certain extent, many other things such as the location, the culture, whether it’s safe or not, matters a lot.”

Q10: How many universities should I apply for?

Rachel B.

“The UK universities go through a UCAS application and it has a limit of 5 schools. Another limit is that you can only apply for either Oxford or Cambridge. So, for students taking the IGCSE, your limit is 5.”

Jenny

“I think 7-10, if you’re doing the United States system, is a good idea so you don’t overwork yourself. If you think you have time for more, then go for it. Just make sure you are comfortable and still able to keep up with your daily workload.”

XueFei Liu is an IBDP student studying at Beijing City International School who has an obsession with classic literature, and is constantly trying to find the answers to life for herself and others.

Images: XueFei Liu, Pexels

This article appeared in the jingkids 2022 School Choice Guide issue

China, a sexually repressed society where any utterance of the three-letter word will be seen as sordid and dishonorable, where all are expected to remain pure until the marriage bed…is what people might have said some 50 years ago.

The concept of sex to my generation has significantly transformed and adapted along with the rest of society’s immense reforms, a point that some antiquated education curriculums and parents have been rather oblivious to.

Growing up, I noticed a gaping dissonance in attitudes towards sex and other equally taboo topics within my different circles of friends. These differences came in various forms but seemed to be aligned with race and sexuality. In 4th grade, some male friends openly wondered about sex. In 5th grade, some classmates began joking about genitals. By the end of middle school, some had already experimented with varying degrees of intimacy. I also noticed conflicting attitudes from parents, with some parents still demanding their children close their eyes during a make-out scene on screen, while others handed out condoms to their kids.

The point is, our generation is one that is more sexually emancipated, and our education and attitudes (from parents especially) need to start catching up.

I recall that I was only given one unit of sex education, which was conveniently lumped under the umbrella of science. Topics included fertilization, signs of puberty, the menstrual cycle, and reproduction. Although many parents and teachers were and remain content with such a simple biological and factual approach, I noticed that none of the information was applicable to real life. It disregarded, in my opinion, more important topics.

Using the menstrual cycle as an example, we weren’t given any provisions, as young girls, on the signs of menarche, dietary needs during your period, ways to deal with period cramps, and the duration of a healthy period, not to mention the choice for different products and how to use pads or tampons (the latter of which is a nerve-wracking concept to many girls). In addition to that, on the topic of sex, we were never encouraged to have our own opinions on it, we were never told the importance of consent, contraception, or warned of accidental pregnancies. Although the last is less likely and teen pregnancies have largely been on the decline, the possibility of it, the responsibility, and damage that accompanies it should not be brushed aside. We weren’t even told a safe age or legal age to begin having sex, how our bodies may react during and after it, or the possible consequences of adolescent sex.

Going back to being more sexually emancipated, some fail to recognize how sex has evolved from the generic, penetrative act between a man and a woman. For many students who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, normal sex-ed may not be enough, and research has shown that there has been an increase in sexually transmitted infections between LGBTIA+ students, possibly due to a lack of nationally standardized sex education that is inclusive of niche groups. Furthermore, sex has grown to take the form of more than penetration. Oral sex, anal sex, and kinks have become more popularized (whether we like it or not). These should all be referred to, to ensure a more holistic, informative, and comprehensive curriculum. I understand that it may be uncomfortable for a variety of reasons, but their existence is undeniable, and leaving our students uneducated on such topics could lead to dire consequences.

I get it, sex is a taboo, discomfiting topic that many are uncomfortable talking about, however, what’s more worrying is if we simply let students continuously be misinformed and uneducated on the topic, left to rely on what their parents are willing, or unwilling to inform them of.

Also, I do recognize that some schools offer great sex-education courses, and this article at its core isn’t meant to bash any specific school, but rather use this opportunity to address and bring attention to an all-encompassing issue that could otherwise be awkward to discuss.

KEEP READING: Why No Sex With Students is a Good Thing

Images: Unsplash