Class of 2025: Zoe's journey from DUCKS to Ivy League
After 13 years at Dulwich Pudong, Zoe G is preparing to join Columbia University, drawn by its intellectual depth and diversity. From leadership roles to service initiatives and a passion for learning, in this Class of 2025 interview Zoe reflects on the many experiences, and teachers, that have shaped her journey and inspired her aspirations for the future.
What do you intend to study and where, and why was this your choice?
I intend to study at Columbia University. It has always been my dream school, as I am particularly drawn to its intellectual diversity and rigour. I have yet to officially declare a major, but I am interested in pursuing economics and art history.
What were some of your most memorable experiences during your time at Dulwich Pudong?
I really enjoyed all the Challenge Week trips we went on, from hiking in Mogan Shan to visiting Tulous in Fujian. These trips not only broadened my perspectives but also fostered closer bonds with my year group. Toasting smores with friends and competing to see who can build the best bamboo boat are memories I will never forget! Within the school, one of my most memorable experiences was co-leading Home Sweet Home, where we taught individuals with disabilities English to further their employment opportunities. Through this experience, I have made many new friends and also learned how to better coordinate teaching resources and plan lessons according to student needs. Handing out roses as part of the Valentine's Day gratitude event we organized as well-being prefects and seeing many of the recipients' faces light up is also a lovely memory.
Are there any teachers that you'd like to single out for thanks, and if so why?
There are so many teachers and staff I am grateful to that it would simply not be possible to mention all of them! Throughout the years, my teachers, including Ms. Liu, Ms. Rhodes, Mr. Gilmour, and Ms. Hart, have enriched my academic learning through their engaging lessons. But if I had to thank one teacher for giving me the starting boost for my academic journey, it would be my Year 1 teacher, Ms. Nichols. I was very shy back in DUCKS, and it was her encouragement that motivated me to enjoy school, in particular, English lessons. My Middle School history teacher, Mr. Hutchison, and IB history teacher, Mr. Downes, all helped foster my love for the subject through their dynamic and informative lessons and their evident passion for teaching. Ms. Huang (my Chinese teacher) and Ms. Jiang (my form tutor) were also always there to support me both academically and mentally. Last but definitely not least, I would like to thank my college counselor, Ms. Ruru Huang, for her valuable advice throughout the application process.
How did being at Dulwich Pudong prepare you for applying to university?
My time at Dulwich Pudong has been extremely helpful in preparing me for my university application. Even before the idea of preparing for university crossed my mind, the numerous opportunities and events in Dulwich had already helped lay the foundations for me to explore what I was passionate about and develop my skills. Indeed, the numerous leadership opportunities available, from serving as a school captain and student representative in Junior School to becoming a Prefect later in Senior School, enabled me to be a more active participant in the school community and acquire essential leadership and collaboration skills. Meanwhile, the opportunities to participate in and lead CCAs not only more deeply fostered my interests but also helped me prepare for the extracurricular aspects of my university application. The College’s University & Careers Counseling team has also played a crucial role in supporting my college application process. From lessons on identifying what we prioritized to learning about the concepts of ‘spikes’ in an application, they were always there to support me in building a stronger application.
What are you going to miss most about Dulwich Pudong?
As someone who has been at Dulwich Pudong since Reception (13 years really does fly by fast!), it has been such an integral part of my growing up that there are many things I will miss. The community here will probably be what I will miss most of all. I am very fortunate to have grown up in such a supportive and close-knit environment, where I have met many wonderful people. From hanging out with friends in the IB common room and looking forward to toast every Friday to seeing everyone so wonderfully dressed up at graduation, my interactions with the Dulwich community are what I will greatly miss and cherish.
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 being open-minded and aware of the diverse events, perspectives, and cultures that surround us in the world. Many key issues, such as inequality, transcend borders; therefore, we need to be global citizens and recognize our responsibility to think as part of and contribute to a better global community. Indeed, only when cultural understanding is achieved can we learn from each other and vital cooperation occur.
Where do you imagine yourself in 30 years and what do you think your future self might say to you now?
As someone with diverse interests and who looks forward to exploring more in university, it’s too early to say for sure what I'll be doing in 30 years! However, I hope to do something I love and contribute to bettering my community. I believe my future self will advise me to pursue my ambitions, be grateful to my friends and family, as well as create and make the most of all the opportunities I have.
