Name: Ms. Zhu

Grade: 9

School: Archbishop John Carroll High School

Why did you choose to attend high school in the United States?

The reason I chose to study in the United States is that I believe the autonomous learning approach and the open teaching atmosphere in the U.S. are more suitable for me. The American classroom education emphasizes the cultivation of students' individual development and independent thinking skills. The classroom style is dynamic, and the role of teachers is characterized by a greater degree of freedom. In American classrooms, students are encouraged to express their own opinions, fostering high levels of student engagement and diverse content. This environment effectively cultivates confidence and the ability for independent critical thinking. 

What was your greatest concern as a young international student before studying abroad in the United States?

Primarily, my major concern was related to my language proficiency; I worried about the ability to communicate effectively with native English speakers. Additionally, arriving in an unfamiliar country, I had concerns about handling unforeseen challenging situations on my own. However, upon my arrival in the United States for study, the after-school management teachers at DENO provided substantial guidance and assistance in my daily life. Additionally, language tutoring sessions have consistently strengthened my English listening and speaking abilities.

What are the distinct differences between classrooms in the United States and classrooms in China?

The pace of domestic courses is extremely fast, and classroom instruction is predominantly teacher-centric. Many times, I find it challenging to fully digest all the knowledge points in a timely manner. In American classrooms, there is an equal relationship between teachers and students during communication. Teachers ensure that every student comprehends a concept before moving on to the next. The classroom atmosphere is relaxed, and we actively engage in the courses, with everyone being encouraged to express their thoughts. 

During your time in American high school, what are some of the most memorable activities that left a lasting impression on you? Please share some interesting experiences!

I participated in the school's drama and choir clubs. I came to realize that the core of the drama production is essentially led by students, from acting and stage design to costumes and the orchestra. Thus, whether or not you have performance skills, you can find a role here that suits you, making it a place where suitability matters most. We would sing together and chat while making costumes. In summary, it was a joyful experience, and the sense of engagement in the activities was strong. 

Could you share some interesting stories or experiences you had with your host family?

My host family is wonderful. The host father takes us to do activities like weeding and tree-cutting, which are unique experiences I haven't had during my academic life. The host mother takes us shopping and exposes us to the local American way of life. We celebrated many native American holidays together, gaining a profound understanding of American culture. For instance, during the grand Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, we adorned the rooms and decorated Christmas trees together, creating a festive atmosphere.

What assistance do you believe the teachers from DENO's after-school management program have provided you with in terms of your current studies or life?

After enrolling in high school in the United States, I discovered that the courses of Biology and Health presented higher levels of difficulty. The teachers in DENO's after-school management program provided me with significant assistance in both the study and tutoring aspects of these two courses. The teachers would devise customized learning plans based on my current academic situation and conduct monthly assessments. If any issues were identified, the teachers proactively communicated with me, addressing gaps and shortcomings, and encouraging my progress.