Student feature – students from the Class of 2021 share their experiences of studying at SISHK and IBDP.
Win Liu – Class of 2021, IBDP
Raffles Head of House
Muzé – Performing Arts Promotion and Production Group Student Leader
Community Council Member
AY1920 Yearbook Committee Photographer
U16 Football Boys Team Captain
Running to Stop the Traffic 24 Hour Race – Event Organiser and Team Leader
SISHK Talent Development Award – Leadership Category
Sir Edward Youde Memorial Prize Awardee
Q. How long have you been studying at SISHK?
13 years
Q. What is your advice for students who want to join or currently studying in the IBDP?
Make good use of your resources, remember to seek help quickly when you’re experiencing difficulty, teachers and mentors will always be there for encouragement and support! Online resources are also very helpful for some subjects!
Q. What was the highlight of your IB journey at the school in the last two years?
Persevering through all the coursework and exams with my friends and peers, but also learning more about my strengths and weaknesses, and working to improve my time management and work ethic.
Q. What is your studying strategy?
Depends on the subject. For instance Math, always practice questions and past papers, especially the homework that teachers provide.
For Sciences such as Chemistry and Biology, doing and memorizing past paper question patterns and ‘hot’ questions or topics. Learn and understand the mechanism or concept first, then move to past papers to practice and find your weak points, and improve on them over time.
Practicing consistently over a longer period of time (1-2 months) is definitely more effective than cramming everything into the last 1-2 weeks before the exam, as it is more effective in remembering knowledge in the long-term.
Q. What are some of the mistakes that you have made that you would not make again?
Procrastinating and finishing off some assignments or coursework to the last minute, sometimes not seeking help early enough before class tests.
Q. How did the teachers support you during the IB programme?
They took time outside of class time to create consultation slots for us, and always offered to clarify our doubts and reteach certain concepts to us whenever we needed help.
Q. How would you describe the student life and student leadership opportunities in SISHK?
Very enriching and supportive, most people will get the chance to hold a leadership position in the student body if they are willing to take it on. For my cohort especially, student life was very exciting and enjoyable, and there is a strong sense of camaraderie between students, and with our teachers and mentors.
Q. Can you share more about your university admissions experience?
It was more confusing at first, as some of the application processes were tedious and hard to comprehend initially, such as for medicine, or applying to US colleges. But, the University Counselling team were very helpful and patient in guiding me throughout the application stages, such as helping to edit and proof-reading personal statements, and conduct mock interviews. Overall, it was a pretty smooth and great experience. Planning ahead is very important when it comes to choosing universities and preparing applications.
Q. What is the one thing that you will miss after leaving SISHK?
The sense of camaraderie, not only between the cohort of 2021, but also the niche relationships between students and teachers. Without their care, entertainment, and support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. As House Leader, I’ll also miss everyone in Raffles House, the excitement and energy during house meetings and events, and everyone who helped to motivate and push me to be the best leader and team player possible.
Q. What are you planning to study after IB?
Medicine.
Q. What is one part of the school that you would like to see preserved and not changed?
The unique and lively house system and community, especially the house energy and spirit engraved, and the vast leadership opportunities.
Q. Any last words of advice for your juniors?
Although the IB journey can be tough, somewhat stressful, and hectic at times, always remember to enjoy the last two years of high school, and treasure the moments and relationships with your friends and teachers.
Related links
May 2021 Session of International Baccalaureate Diploma Results