Class of 2025: Michael’s Path from Pudong to Princeton
With 13 years at Dulwich Pudong behind him, Michael G is heading to Princeton University to explore how cities can become more inclusive and resilient. A passionate student leader, researcher and community contributor, Michael reflects on the people and experiences that have fuelled his growth and global perspective.
What do you intend to study and where, and why was this your choice?
I intend to study at Princeton University. At Princeton, I hope to explore the interdisciplinary approaches we can adopt to make cities worldwide more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive. I am considering a path in either economics/ urban studies or civil engineering, but I'll try to keep my options open in my first year. Princeton stood out to me because it aligns with my academic interests and values. I appreciate not only its undergraduate focus, which allows me to conduct research with leading scholars but also its spirit of service, which is reflected by its informal motto: "In the Nation's Service and the Service of Humanity."
What were some of your most memorable experiences during your time at Dulwich Pudong?
Teaching English through the Home Sweet Home club has been one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my time at Dulwich Pudong. Home Sweet Home allowed me to support members of the local community in obtaining English qualifications; it also left me with close friends and new perspectives on service. Another experience I enjoyed was being part of the organising committee for Dulwich Talks, a long-standing student-led academic event at Dulwich Pudong. Our team scripted, directed, and led a simulation on the day that encouraged students to make difficult ethical and existential decisions. While we were initially nervous about introducing this new segment, it ended up beating all of our expectations.
Are there any teachers that you'd like to single out for thanks, and if so why?
In my 13 years at Dulwich, I have encountered countless teachers and staff who have patiently and generously guided me. I would like to especially acknowledge my IB teachers – Mr. Fisher for inspiring me to explore urban issues through geography, Mr. Hutchings for teaching me to evaluate and question in history, Dr. Alvares for always pushing me to ask the ‘whys’ in physics, Mr. Knowles for showing me how to approach complex problems in maths, Mr. Shine for instilling in me a passion for literature, Ms. Huang for teaching me how to read texts critically, Mr. Downes for mentoring me for my Extended Essay, and of course Ms. Hodkinson and Ms. Thornton for supporting me through IB every step of the way.
I am forever grateful for all the help and encouragement Mr Macdonald has given me throughout my application. From writing my counsellor recommendation to providing advice on endless drafts of personal statements and application essays, his help was invaluable in ensuring the application process felt less daunting and stressful.
How did being at Dulwich Pudong prepare you for applying to university?
Dulwich Pudong is a place that rewards you for your ideas and ambitions. My teachers have always gone above and beyond to guide and support me, whether in my role as a student leader or in the clubs and initiatives I organised. Aside from the multitude of extra-curricular opportunities Dulwich Pudong offers, I also found the academic rigour of the IB to be a great help in university applications. Writing the Internal Assessments for each subject and the Extended Essay taught me valuable skills in research and inquiry that make me feel more confident about meeting expectations in university.
Our vision is 'Live Worldwise'. What does this mean to you and why is it important to be a 'global citizen'?
‘Live Worldwise’ encourages us to embrace global perspectives and helps us develop an international mindedness that gives us skills to collaborate across cultures and disciplines. At Dulwich Pudong, we are constantly reminded of how the things we learn in class translate to real-world contexts – the incredible opportunities my Dulwich education has given me come with an attached responsibility that compels me to consider how I can be part of the solution to some of the world's most pressing issues.
Where do you imagine yourself in 30 years and what do you think your future self might say to you now?
I'm not sure what I'll be doing in 30 years, but I hope I will make the most of the education I receive and find a meaningful job that aligns with my values. I don't know what that will be yet, but I think my future self would encourage me to keep an open mind and take advantage of every opportunity to try something new. I'm excited about delving into unfamiliar areas of study and exploring ideas that spark from the intersections of fields that may appear unrelated at first glance.
What are you going to miss most about Dulwich Pudong?
Everything. I spent nearly all my school life in Dulwich Pudong, making my way down Lan'An Road from DUCKS to Junior School and then Senior School. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a member of this community – to be supported by all the teachers, friends, support staff who make this place special. Perhaps I am yet to fully come to terms with what it's like to leave Dulwich, but I am already beginning to miss breaks and lunches in the Common Room, the heated debates and discussions we have in class, and knowing that no matter how I'm feeling in the morning, I can always come to school and find comfort in this community.
