【Matthew】：The biggest challenge was to be ready for the competitions. It was difficult to stay focused with so many textbooks, but things became easy once my mind was made up. I tried to focus and study for hours without being distracted.

While acquiring knowledge, I was able to improve my comprehensive abilities too. The key was to master the learning methods: when preparing for the USAD Art exam, I created a large chart to help memorizing the important information; when working on HOSA, I took a lot of organized notes. Different methods must be utilized for various learning objectives. It’s never just remembering or last-minute efforts. What I needed was a good everyday habit and enough time to be ready.

It’s important to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. I felt less nervous knowing I’ve done the best I could.

【Mom】：Taking the USAD while being locked down in Hubei, finishing the Primary of the Linguistic Olympics, completing 500 pages of HOSA exam textbook, and first time travelled by himself; Literature and Art, Language and The Epidemiology… I hope our young generation realize that becoming strong is the best way to deal with changes. It’s never too late to start, even when the schools are closed, you may choose to stay connected to the world of studying.

My son is growing up among a group of excellent young talents. While seeing the distance, he has become more and more confident. We would also like to thank his teachers at BIBS for their help throughout the months: Mr. Icarus, Ms. Sonja, Ms. Vicky and Ms. Emily.

【Matthew】：There is a nice environment at BIBS where everyone has been very friendly. Talking to my friends always made me feel re-charged, and my teachers were always there when I had questions. In short, BIBS is a place full of positive energy.

【Mom】：2014 I came back to Beijing from overseas, and to find a school for 一宁 became my number one priority. He was nine but could only write no more than 50 Chinese characters. Considering his confidence and English skills, I decided to put him in a bilingual school. And BIBS came to my attention right away. That was the first year of BIBS Shunyi Campus, and it was right next our home. We felt very lucky and registered for Matthew then.

6 years past, we have enjoyed the warm atmosphere at BIBS. Students are talented and sunny, teachers are professional and knowledgeable. A positive learning environment has encouraged us all and allowed my son with more time to explore his interests such as reading, languages, theatre and sports. Bilingual education is very important and has helped my son a long way with his Chinese. When Matthew entered DP stage, his guidance counsellors got in touch with me and helped us on every step of the arrangements.

Over the years we were often suggested to send 一宁 overseas or transfer to a larger school here. But we never did. I think BIBS is the right school for my son.

【Matthew】：COVID-19 has changed everything this year but I’ve been staying busy with all the competitions. I think now I’m more confident too. I’ve not made up my mind on which major or profession to pursue yet, but I hope whatever I do, it will be helpful to the society. At the moment I’m very interested in sociology, and I will collect more information in this field and try to promote myself.

【Mom】：Like Matthew said, we wanted to keep him busy by attending these competitions. The reward was surprisingly good, and we hope the same for his future. So far, we don’t have to detailed plans for 一宁’s future yet, and have not spent too much time on university choosing either. I want him to be passionate, confident and happy.