Student feature – students from the Class of 2020 share their experiences of studying at SISHK and the IBDP.
Hsu Shi En – Class of 2020, IBDP
- Student Leader, Audiovisual Team
- Sir Edward Youde Memorial Prize Awardee
- Brown Book Award winner
Q. How long have you been studying at SISHK?
I’ve spent 14 years in SISHK.
Q. What advice do you have for students looking to study the IBDP?
My best advice is for students to manage their time well and learn how to prioritise tasks. This is especially important in order to balance academic work and extracurricular activities.
Q. What is the highlight of your IB journey at the school in the last two years?
The highlight of my IB journey was definitely the CAS trip. Planning for the trip honed my leadership skills while going on the trip itself taught me to be grateful for my privileges and showed me the value in serving others.
Q. What is your studying strategy?
My studying strategy is to pay close attention in class and spend more time on my weaker subjects. I also clarify doubts immediately rather than waiting until a test comes by.
Q. What are some of the mistakes that you have made that you would not make again?
One thing I would do differently is to make better use of the summer after DP1 to finish my Extended Essay earlier and start preparing for exams which took place shortly after the school holidays.
Q. How did the teachers support you during the IB programme?
My teachers have been extremely supportive through acts such as offering consultation sessions outside of class time. They are happy to help me in both academic work and CAS related events.
Q. How would you describe the student life and student leadership opportunities in SISHK?
In SISHK, many leadership opportunities are available for students with different interests such as sports or serving the community. Teachers also encourage students to develop their leadership skills and step out of their comfort zone.
Q. How do the IBDP mock exam and its predicted grade (PG) help you with university admissions?
The mock exams help me understand my current level of preparation and give me a better idea of ways to improve.
Q. Can you share more about your university admissions experience?
Applying to university was definitely not easy but the process became much more manageable with support from the UC team and my friends.
Q. What is the one thing that you will miss after leaving SISHK?
I will miss hanging out with my friends during lunch, conversation with teachers, festive celebrations and much more.
Q. What are you planning to study after IB?
I am planning to study History.
Q. What is one part of the school that you would like to see preserved and not changed?
I hope students’ voices continue being heard for the community to constantly strive for improvement.
Q. What is your advice for your juniors?
Take up all opportunities to try new things and actively participate in school events! Whenever you encounter challenges, don’t forget you have the support of your teachers and peers!