Class of 2025: From Dulwich to D.C - Laura’s Bright Future in Global Affairs

Laura L joined Dulwich Pudong in Year 12 and quickly found her place as a passionate advocate for global citizenship. Now bound for George Washington University to study International Affairs, she reflects on the projects, people and perspectives that shaped her journey, and inspired her to pursue a future of purposeful impact.

What do you intend to study and where, and why was this your choice?

For my next steps, I plan to study International Affairs at George Washington University. I chose GWU for its strong global focus, hands-on learning opportunities in D.C., and the chance to engage with diverse perspectives on critical world issues. Dulwich’s emphasis global citizenship and Ms. Huang’s university counselling deeply influenced this choice.

What were some of your most memorable experiences during your time at Dulwich Pudong? 

Being part of the Global Citizenship Portfolio gave me my most unforgettable Dulwich experiences. From organizing Earth Week to Women's Week, it was so memorable seeing our school community come alive discussing global issues. The highlight was undoubtedly the One Voice Summit, where students from across China passionately learned about global challenges, presented their own initiatives that create a positive impact on the world, and come up with solutions to global issues. The Summit showed me the power of youth leadership. Hence, these moments further sparked my interest in international affairs.

What are you going to miss most about Dulwich Pudong? 

Dulwich was the first school where I truly felt like I belonged. The teachers weren’t just educators, they were mentors who believed in me even when I doubted myself. Moreover, I felt as if my classmates became family (in such a short amount of time since I only came in Year 12!). Whether it was celebrating successes or pushing through challenges, I always felt supported. That sense of community is something I’ll carry with me long after graduation.

Are there any teachers that you'd like to single out for thanks, and if so why? 

I’m so grateful to Mr. Fisher for his constant positivity and support during some of my toughest moments. His advice was always thoughtful and grounding, and he had a way of comforting me while still pushing me to grow. I’d also love to thank Ms. K, who became a real role model for me. Her ambition and dedication to global citizenship showed me what it means to lead with purpose. Both of them made a lasting impact on my Dulwich journey.

Our vision is 'Live Worldwise'. What does this mean to you and why is it important to be a 'global citizen'? 

To me, ‘Live Worldwise’ means moving through life with curiosity rather than assumptions. Asking why things work differently elsewhere, listening to perspectives that challenge yours, and recognizing how local actions create global ripple effects. Dulwich taught me that being a global citizen isn’t just about awareness, it’s about responsibility. Whether through organizing the One Voice Summit or discussing global issues in class, I saw how small dialogues can spark real change. In a world that often feels divided, this mindset turns differences into bridges rather than barriers.

How did being at Dulwich Pudong prepare you for applying to university? 

Dulwich was a huge help, not only with the strong academic-focused education or the diverse and collaborative CCAs, but in figuring out where I would actually thrive. My teachers and university counselors really took the time to understand my strengths and interests, which helped narrow down the best programs for me. They didn’t just recommend ‘good schools’, they pointed me toward places like GWU where I could grow, both academically and personally.

Where do you imagine yourself in 30 years and what do you think your future self might say to you now? 

In three decades, I hope to be working as an international lawyer, perhaps at the UN or another global organization, helping mediate conflicts and bridge divides between nations.

Looking back, I imagine my future self would say: "Trust the journey. Every late-night study session, every moment of doubt, every small step mattered more than you realized. You don’t have to have it all figured out now. Just keep listening, learning, and advocating for what’s right. And yes, everything will be okay."