这是一个关于竞争与成就的故事，更是一段关于探索自我、超越目标的成长。

教育，是能够看到每个个体的与众不同，使其充分发挥潜力、爱上学习的过程。在当今的多元世界，教育早已不再局限于单一的传授知识，而更注重于激发学生的潜能，培养成为具备批判性思维和创新创造能力的全面发展人才。

当一位屡屡获奖的“天赋型”选手，来到荔湾爱莎初中部 （国际方向），他又看到了怎样的成长可能？

“He’s a child full of curiosity about the world. I often wondered how to spark his interest in exploration while giving him a sense of accomplishment,” recalled Liao's mother. “So, when he was in second grade, I started a math club for him and a few interested children at school and taught Olympiad math.” 

Since joining ISA in primary school, Liao has immersed himself in competitions—from math contests to English speeches, science exhibitions, and art creation. Competitions have become an integral part of his learning journey. “Competitions aren’t about 'pushing' the child but rather finding an educational path that suits their traits,” his mother explained. With the support of his parents and the school, every competition became a new opportunity for exploration and growth. 

“To prepare for a competition, he practiced problems and sought teachers’ advice for weeks,” his mother shared with a smile. “Even at a young age, his dedication to perfection was deeply touching. I knew he was enjoying the learning process, not merely chasing medals.” 

As he advanced to higher grades, Liao joined ISA Liwan. For him, it was a whole new world filled with endless possibilities, and his interests further blossomed through numerous attempts and breakthroughs. 

His academic mentor, the experienced and passionate Ms. Nora, quickly noticed his meticulous logical thinking and courage in confidently expressing his ideas. She patiently guided him in Chinese writing classes on how to use logic and evidence to support his arguments and how to counter opposing viewpoints. 

“To enhance his expressive skills, we introduced a variety of exercises, such as open-ended writing tasks and discussions requiring critical thinking,” added Mr. Mayers, his English Language and Literature teacher. “In creative writing, we encouraged him to incorporate his humorous storytelling, developing a strong personal style.” 

With the dedicated support of his teachers, Liao excelled in debate, earning the Best Debater award in an individual round of the Zhongheng Cup Chinese Debate Competition for International Schools. His literary creations also frequently impressed both classmates and teachers. 

“Debating taught me how to use language to conquer the world and convey my ideas,” Liao shared. “Writing, on the other hand, reflects my inner world—a way to dialogue with the world.” 

In competitions, one may triumph gloriously or return empty-handed. On report cards, one may shine at the top or stumble into valleys. The path of growth is never smooth. 

After participating in several important competitions without achieving good results, submitting a well-thought-out essay that missed the mark, and facing increasing pressure from more outstanding peers, Liao admitted, “There were times I felt lost and even began to doubt my abilities. I started reflecting on myself, thinking about what I could do better.” 

Through this reflection, he realized that he could not rely solely on past achievements or natural talent. Instead, he needed to maintain a steady mindset and work diligently in the face of challenges. He revised his study plan, followed his teachers’ advice to read extensively, actively sought advice and discussions with peers, and expanded his knowledge while honing his practical and teamwork skills. 

During this process, he not only learned to apply knowledge to solve real-world problems but also discovered how to understand himself under pressure and continue surpassing his limits. 

After a period of reflection and adjustment, with the help of his teachers, Liao gradually found his rhythm and direction. He learned to reconcile with himself, with challenges, and with the idea of “perfection.” 

“I don’t need to be the perfectionist in others’ eyes. I just need to try my best to be the best version of myself,” Liao shared. He began applying his curiosity and analytical skills to STEM projects. In the “Aquaponics” project, he and his team designed and built a self-sustaining ecosystem using hydroponic technology and biological filtration systems. Through continuous testing and optimization, they achieved a harmonious balance between fish and vegetables, contributing innovative ideas and solid skills to the team. 

To his classmates, Liao has already become a role model for learning. “His optimism and confidence deeply inspire me and motivate me to aim higher,” remarked one senior student. Another peer who collaborated with him on the Future City STEM project added, “Working with him always feels reassuring. His talent and leadership make us more united and efficient.” 

Whether in fierce debates or precise calculations, Liao leaves an impression of being “confident,” “determined,” “generous,” and “relaxed.” Behind his composure lies a pursuit unbound by “perfection” and the confidence of growing freely on a suitable path. “Effort is certainly important, but even more so is maintaining a calm mind to enjoy the process of growing into yourself,” he said. 

“He embodies a thirst for knowledge and a constant challenge to himself, which is precisely the core value we strive for in education,” said Mr. Guo, Principal of Middle School of ISA Wenhua Liwan School of Guangzhou (International), his eyes sparkling with admiration when discussing Liao’s breakthroughs. As an experienced educational leader, Mr. Guo remarked, “We understand how precious students like him are, with limitless potential and a passion for exploration. That’s why our ‘ISA Talent Program’ provides teaching resources and methods more suited to their individual needs.”  

ISA Liwan is committed to creating an educational environment that fully ignites students' potential and guides them toward excellence. The ‘ISA Talent Program’ is the concrete implementation of this educational philosophy. Through personalized instruction, careful guidance from academic mentors, and a diverse evaluation system, it helps students fully tap into their potential and achieve self-breakthroughs.  

After being selected for the ISA Talent Program in mathematics, Liao received dedicated guidance from professional math coaches, undergoing systematic training for competitions to expand his math knowledge and develop his mathematical thinking and application skills. In the ISA Talent Program for science, Liao participated in the “Future City” project, where, under the guidance of innovation and technology teachers, he and his team designed a future smart city. His interdisciplinary knowledge integration, innovative thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities were rapidly enhanced through hands-on practice, laying a solid foundation for his future development.  

“We believe every student has unlimited potential and possibilities,” Mr. Guo shared. “Through academic training programs like the ‘ISA Talent Program,’ we provide more opportunities and platforms for outstanding students, allowing them to showcase their talents, develop their abilities, and move forward toward even greater goals.”