Sylvia：遥不可及的梦，也许就在你的脚下

Sylvia is a Grade 10 student at FCG and has been at the school for over six months.

Before transferring, she felt confined to a single academic path focused solely on exam performance. "My previous school provided almost no flexibility.”  “The environment heavily emphasized science-related subjects, but my foundation in science wasn't strong, so I felt constant pressure.”

Before the transfer, Sylvia's parents worried she might struggle to adapt to a bilingual learning environment and to a school that gives students more independence rather than strict supervision. They feared she might become less disciplined and fail to manage her time.

Sylvia once believed she lacked talent in science and would naturally lean toward the humanities. After joining FCG, her university goals led her to choose mostly science subjects. Unexpectedly, she earned A/A* grades in Chinese, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Business in her end-of-term exams—most notably improving her Physics from a C to an A*.

"I used to be very afraid of physics; I felt it was extremely difficult. Whenever I  encountered a learning obstacle, I would retreat rather than  attempt to solve it. Problems accumulated, and my grades  worsened ."

Upon seeing her weak quiz results, her physics teacher, Bowen, asked whether she had mastered the concepts. With guidance, Sylvia began tackling English science terms word by word, repeatedly reviewing formulas and breaking down difficult concepts after class. "When I ask questions and follow the teacher's guidance to find answers, solving the problems gives me a strong sense of achievement,  which motivates me to continue. Gradually, I found enjoyment in learning physics."

Originally shy, Sylvia went from not daring to ask questions to actively seeking help. "Teachers here are very responsible and attentive to each student. Whenever I don't understand something, I go to a teacher, and they will explain it clearly. Even outside class time, they respond quickly."

Her chemistry teacher, Mina, who was cheerful and encouraging, also played a key role. Although Sylvia struggled initially, Mina constantly supported her.  She conducted vocabulary dictations, prepared exercise booklets, and key-point summaries for each chapter, helping Sylvia consolidate her learning. After seeing her improvement, she would tell Sylvia, "I'm proud of you."

Chloe, Sylvia's economics teacher, reviewed the previous-semester content separately for new transfer students before starting the new unit. After each lesson, she provided key vocabulary lists and dictations to help build a solid foundation.

Some assume international schools prioritise activities over academics. "But I think FCG has very solid academics. The school combines academics and activities effectively,  allowing us to learn well while enjoying school life."

Sylvia's growth is not only academic but also personal.

"I used to avoid challenges and worry about others' opinions. At FCG, I've become more willing to try new things."

In six months, she  delivered  a TED-style speech, performed at the boarding department's coming-of-age ball, and served as a host at the 2024-2025 Art Festival.

"Our grade performed “Viva La Vida” together. The rehearsal process was enjoyable, and the final performance was powerful. These activities help relieve academic pressure and open my eyes to a broader world beyond textbooks."

At FCG, every student's development path is diverse. Instead of competing solely

on academic results, students seek new achievements in activities and competitions, gradually building their own "skill trees."

First, always ask questions. Don't be shy—teachers are happy to help. As Tim, our mathematics teacher, says, "My only fear is that no one asks me questions." Participating in class and following the teacher's logic helps digest knowledge more effectively.

Second, don't fear new subjects or English textbooks. Lessons are  primarily in English, but Chinese teachers assist, and teachers explain concepts clearly with vocabulary lists. Memorising key terms helps you follow lessons, and every bit of progress counts.

Her parents once hoped she would study in Hong Kong—a goal Sylvia  previously thought

was "unreachable."

"I didn't dare to think about it before. Now, seeing my progress, I feel like this goal might not be  as far away after all."

Sylvia's success is not just her own story, but reflects the feelings of many new students joining FCG. A once-distant dream is becoming increasingly real with each passing day, and the path beneath their feet is the very road that leads to the future.