The American writer Winterson once remarked, "In life, we are perpetually besieged by a sense of threat. Yet, the moment you immerse yourself in the solitude of a book, a painting, or a piece of music, all your defences are stripped away."
Lydia also has such a sanctuary. Whether it was during her educational journey at Wellington College Hangzhou or in her everyday life, it is the realm of creativity and art that enables her to discover her true self.
“I realise I am a multidimensional person who is both creative and logical. I have many interests and hobbies; I like dancing, playing the piano, drawing, writing calligraphy, and singing.”
"Learn to perceive art and the world from different perspectives. Every element or object, regardless of its simplicity, is brimming with potential and the power to tell a story. We need to cultivate the ability to delve into these possibilities."
For an 18-year-old like Lydia, this journey of exploration is just commencing. Recently, she has received offers from several prestigious art institutions, including Parsons School of Design (ranked among the top three globally and number one in the US for art and design) and the University of the Arts London (considered among the top 2 globally and number 1 in the UK for art and design).
During our brief conversation with Lydia, we found that her philosophy is, “perseverance is always preferable to its absence.”
It has indeed proven to be true.
Lydia began the process of selecting her universities with foresight. Under the guidance of the university counsellors at Wellington College Hangzhou and propelled by her own interests, she progressively formulated her criteria foruniversity selection, narrowing her options down to a shortlist of prospective institutions. She organised the top-ranked universities based on the strength of their courses, geographical location, and size, with the paramount consideration being the excellence of the academic programmes.
"My dream university is Parsons School of Design because its geographic location attracted me and also because it is a top school in art and design.”
Parsons School of Design is a globally recognised institution, renowned as the premierdesign school in the United States for art and design, and consistently ranking among the top four globally. Its esteemed reputation and exceptional academic prowess make it a dream destination for many pupils.
However, the ‘right fit’ is a multifaceted concept. Besides course ranking, it encompasses a broader set of considerations, including alignment with the institution's values. Parsons seeks applicants with strong potential and the ability to express themselves creatively—qualities that are evidently reflected in Lydia's educational journey.
As the Head of College at Wellington College Hangzhou, she has fostered friendships with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, appreciating the importance of self-expression and inclusiveness. Serving as the school's performing arts ambassador, Lydia gave performances at the annual Chinese New Year gala, further uniting her peers and embodying the role of a pupil leader through her engagement in various artistic endeavours.
Lydia refuses to be labelled, which is not out of defiance or conceit.
She is dedicated to exploring and mastering a wide array of skills that are inherently connected to the arts. Lydia's willingness to learn from her peers does not conflict with her aversion to labels; rather, it reflects her choice to forge a unique path that deviates from the conventional route.
Lydia never shies away from challenges; instead, they fuel her determination. Despite her easy-going demeanour, she is known for her dedication to her studies, working tirelessly from morning till night on assignments and exam preparation. To her Sixth Form teachers, Lydia's diligent and focused nature stands in stark contrast to her typically sociable and talkative character. When it comes to preparing for standardised tests, she prefers the guidance of a strict teacher over one who engages in casual conversation, a preference that may seem at odds with her outgoing demeanour.
Her alignment with Parsons, a prestigious institution celebrated for its artistic excellence, has always been evident and beyond doubt.
Life at Wellington College Hangzhou has shaped Lydia's vibrant personality, which she successfully presented to Parsons School of Design, an institution that seeks ‘more possibilities’. In the highly competitive 2024 application season for art schools, Lydia distinguished herself, securing admission to Parsons after an almost six-month wait. This achievement realised her aspirations for the city of New York and validated our belief in her potential for admission.
Throughout our conversation, Lydia often expressed her gratitude to Wellington College Hangzhou for the rapid growth it facilitated and the sense of assurance it instilled in her. Even after receiving her offer and completing her courses, her teachers were always ready to address her inquiries, and she frequently shared with them the highs and lows of life. She is especially thankful to the friends who helped her to acclimatise the new environment upon her arrival at Wellington College Hangzhou. They encouraged her to persevere through challenges and endowed her with the courage to embark on a new journey.
It is this combination of emotional and rational companionship that has allowed Lydia to smoothly navigate her time at Wellington College Hangzhou and answer the call of New York. Looking forward to her college life with great anticipation and a bit of worry, Lydia says she will try to participate in more activities in her new environment.
Every child on the journey of studying abroad encounters a bottleneck period, and Lydia, a spiritually independent artist, is no exception. However, the nature of her talent may be of secondary importance, for she possesses a more valuable attribute—her passion for art, her responsiveness to a dynamic world, and her commitment to giving her best in all endeavours.
Lydia is continuously broadening her worldview and transcending boundaries. We are confident that the world she is embracing extends well beyond conventional limits.
Q
What kind of person do you want to be in the future？
A
When thinking about my future, I envision myself as a person who has achieved both financial success and widespread recognition. However, it is not just about the wealth and fame; I aspire to lead a fulfilling life where my work continuously adds value not only to my own life but also to the lives of others.
I see myself thriving in a creative career that offers a significant degree of freedom and autonomy. Creative jobs, whether in the arts, design, technology, or entrepreneurship, provide vast opportunities to innovate and express unique ideas. The dynamic nature of these fields excites me, as they often require thinking outside the box, solving problems in novel ways, and pushing the boundaries of traditional norms.
Q
How have WCCH's values and ethos influenced your personal beliefs and values?
A
When reflecting on how WCCH's values and ethos have influenced my personal beliefs and values, one value stands paramount: kindness. Throughout my educational journey, I have come to deeply appreciate the importance of being kind and compassionate, both as fundamental personal traits and as guiding principles in how I interact with the world around me.
At WCCH, the ethos of kindness is often woven into the very fabric of our daily interactions, whether through the culture of inclusivity, collaborative projects, or the emphasis on supporting one another in both academic and personal endeavours. This constant reinforcement has profoundly shaped my perception of kindness as an essential aspect of one's character.
Kindness, to me, is the cornerstone of a harmonious community. It involves empathy, understanding, and a willingness to extend oneself for the benefit of others. By practicing kindness, we can create a positive, nurturing environment that fosters mutual respect and understanding. At school, I have seen firsthand how acts of kindness, no matter how small, can transform someone's day and contribute to a more cohesive and supportive community.
Q
As part of WCCH's first graduating class, what message would you like to leave for current and future pupils at our campus?
A
Always be confident in yourself and never panic about the future.
Confidence is a vital attribute that empowers you to navigate the challenges and opportunities that life presents. Believe in your abilities, trust your instincts, and always remember that you are capable of achieving great things. Confidence is not about being fearless but rather about recognising your worth and having the courage to pursue your dreams despite the obstacles that may come your way.
