(Estimated Reading Duration: 30-45 Minutes)

The Foundational Layer: Tilton School

Location: Tilton, New Hampshire, United States

Degree: High School Diploma, September 2016 - May 2020

“From the moment I set foot on the lush, green campus of Tilton School, a mixture of excitement and apprehension welled within me. Everywhere I looked, there were new faces, experiences, and opportunities waiting to unfold. This institution, with its verdant fields and passionate educators, felt akin to the base of a meticulously prepared cake — the very first, essential layer that promises more richness above.

At Tilton, I didn’t just accumulate knowledge; I laid the cornerstone for my academic future. The lessons learned, the friendships made, and the challenges overcome all came together to shape a strong foundation for the journey ahead.”

Part 1: Learning from Challenges through Sports

“On the fields and rinks of Tilton, I discovered not just sports, but the essence of perseverance, teamwork, and pushing one's boundaries.”

Cross Country: From Legacy to Personal Triumph

The Lure of Legacy:

My father wasn't just a runner; he was a champion, claiming 1st place in the province's 3000 meters competition. I would often hear tales of his speed, endurance, and the exhilaration of a race well run. As a child, the feeling of wind against my face as I sprinted in our local park hinted at an inherited passion. But it wasn't just about following in his footsteps. Each stride was a silent challenge, to him and to myself.

Discovering Cross Country:

Upon arriving at Tilton, my eyes were set on an afternoon activity. Amidst myriad choices, “cross country” beckoned. I must confess, my initial thoughts leaned more towards scenic travels than grueling races. But with a positive mindset, I plunged headlong into this journey, committing four earnest years. The most vivid memory remains the regional championship in my senior year. Rain lashed against us, turning the track into a treacherous path. With my mother's cheers echoing and the weight of it being my last significant race, I summoned every ounce of energy. Crossing the finish line, soaked and splattered with mud, I claimed 6th place in the New Hampshire Lakes Region Championship - my crowning achievement in cross country.

Training Regime:

Over the span of my time at Tilton, from Fall 2016 to Fall 2020, my legs covered 5-10 miles daily, come rain or shine.

My cross country teammates and I.

My lacrosse teammates and I.

Lacrosse: Climbing from Learner to Leader

Discovering the Rhythms of Lacrosse:

When I first set my eyes on a lacrosse match, it felt like an art form - players weaving, dodging, passing, and scoring with a harmony that was both fierce and beautiful. But, unlike viewing a painting or listening to a song, I wasn’t content with just being an observer. The magnetic pull was irresistible, and even with zero understanding of the game, I found myself signing up.

The Humble Beginnings:

My initial days in lacrosse could be best described as clumsy choreography. The intricacies of cradling the ball, maintaining pace, and dodging opponents felt like a juggling act where I was always one step behind. The stick felt foreign in my hands, more like an unwieldy appendage than an extension of my arm. There were whispered bets on how long I would last, but each jest, each doubtful glance, only fanned the flames of my resolve.

The Turning Point:

Months into training, the complexities of the game started unraveling. The same field where I'd often found myself lost transformed into a chessboard, and I, one of its knights. An unforeseen advantage was my perspective as an outsider. I didn't have preconceived notions or habits to unlearn, which allowed me to approach the game with a fresh pair of eyes and strategies that occasionally took seasoned players by surprise.

Becoming a Pillar for the Team

My journey wasn't just about personal mastery but also about blending in and contributing to the collective. With each practice, with each game, the bond with my teammates grew. They weren't just fellow players; they were my sisters in arms, my comrades in this odyssey. It was during a particularly challenging match, with the odds stacked against us, that I stepped up, marshalling the team, rallying their spirits, and leading from the front. That day, I wasn’t just a player; I became a leader, a representative, a beacon of hope for the team.

The Emblem of Global Unity in Sport

Emerging as one of the rare international students to so effortlessly meld into the core of the sport wasn't merely a feather in my cap. It symbolized the boundless essence of sportsmanship that knows no borders or backgrounds. To wear Tilton's colors on the lacrosse field, to uphold the legacy of a team that grew into an extended family, was a privilege that filled me with immense pride. It went beyond mere statistics of goals and victories. It was a narrative of unwavering spirit, unyielding tenacity, and my metamorphosis from an intrigued spectator to an integral weave in the rich fabric of Tilton’s lacrosse heritage.

Ice Hockey: From Novice to Adventurer

Discovering the Ice:

A Mesmerizing Introduction: Before Tilton, ice hockey was but a foreign term to me. It was during a thrilling inter-school match that I first witnessed the magic of the sport. The sheen of the ice, the players' graceful agility, and the electric atmosphere of the arena held me captivated. The seemingly effortless glide of skates, the intricate dance with the puck, and the team camaraderie were unlike anything I'd seen. It was then that I realized I wanted to be part of this electrifying world.

Winter 2018 - First Steps and Stumbles:

I naively assumed my venture into ice hockey would be smooth, but that winter taught me humility. My first time on the rink was far from graceful – the ice was unforgiving, and balancing on skates was a challenge I hadn't anticipated. Each fall was met with a mix of laughter and determination. The unfamiliar cold of the ice and the weight of the gear felt cumbersome, yet every day brought incremental progress.

Finding My Footing:

The school's headmaster couple became unexpected pillars of support, their unwavering belief in my potential providing constant motivation. Winter 2019 marked a monumental moment for me – I scored my first goal during an in-school competition. While I didn't grace the official arenas in full-fledged matches, this achievement was personal, a symbol of my journey of embracing the unfamiliar and turning it into a passion.

A Season of Triumphs:

The ice rink that once seemed daunting now felt like a second home. From not knowing the difference between a puck and a stick to scoring in front of cheering peers, my ice hockey journey was one of resilience, growth, and countless cherished memories.

Me wearing a yellow jersey

My hocky teammates and I.

Skiing: A Dance with Gravity and Grace

My fellow skiers and I.

Discovering the Slopes: Winter in Tilton was unlike any I'd seen before. The world was enveloped in a pristine white blanket, and the mountains seemed to beckon adventurers. Among the crowd of eager students discussing winter sports, skiing stood out. The thought of gliding down snowy mountainsides was both thrilling and intimidating, a challenge I couldn't resist.

Cold Feet, Not Just From the Snow: The first time I buckled into ski boots and stepped onto the soft snow, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Skis felt like an alien extension of my feet. With each faltering step, I questioned my choice, but the allure of the slopes kept drawing me in. The first descent was less of a glide and more of a series of comedic tumbles. But with every fall, I was laughing a little louder, the cold snow against my face reminding me of the joy of trying something new.

Conquering the Demon Slope: Among Tilton's skiing trails, there was one that stood tall and menacing: “The Dragon's Descent.” It was said to be the true test for any skier. The trail had sharp turns, sudden drops, and patches that seemed impossibly steep. As I stood atop this mountain, looking down at its winding path, my heart was in my throat. Memories of my initial tumbles flashed before my eyes. But then, the thought of all the training, the smaller slopes I'd mastered, and the encouragement from fellow skiers fueled a newfound courage. Taking a deep breath, I pushed off. The world became a blur of white and blue. The wind howled, but the sound of skis cutting through the snow was rhythmic and meditative. By the time I reached the bottom, my legs were jelly, but my spirit soared. I had danced with the dragon and emerged, not unscathed, but undoubtedly triumphant.

Embracing Fall and Rise: Skiing taught me more than just balance and coordination; it was a metaphor for life. Each fall, each hurdle, and every moment of doubt on those slopes mirrored life's challenges. But the joy of skiing was not just in the perfect descent; it was in the getting up, dusting off the snow, and trying again, knowing that with every attempt, the dance became a little more graceful.

Despite the diverse nature of each sport, they all conspired to sculpt me through trials and triumphs. From the long, grueling paths of cross country, I distilled the essence of tenacity, learning that persistence could turn even the steepest hills into mere stepping stones. In the strategic plays and collective synergy of lacrosse, I discovered the power of collaboration, finding that a united team could surmount even the most formidable opponents. Ice hockey, a field utterly foreign to me, taught me the courage to embrace new challenges, proving that the thrill of conquest lay just beyond the comfort zone.

Though the rhythms of cross country, lacrosse, and ice hockey no longer reverberate in my daily life as they once did, I have continued my love affair with skiing. And in this graceful dance with snow and slope, I found an echoing wisdom that resonated with all the sports I'd pursued: “When clouds fade, you will see your good jumps.”

Part 2: Echoes of Leadership: From Ambassador to Global Advocate

“As I navigated the corridors of leadership at Tilton, every role I undertook crafted a chapter of growth, responsibility, and global understanding.”

As an International Liaison at Tilton, I once had the privilege of representing international students by sharing my experiences at Tilton on local news.

Whispers of Destiny: As dawn painted the skies that chilly November morning, an email notification broke the silence of my room. Out of a hopeful cohort of 40, I emerged as one of the chosen ambassadors for Tilton. The revelation was sweeter still: I was the sole international freshman to earn this honor in years.

Shouldering Hopes and Dreams: As I inherited the role, the spring quarter lay on the horizon. Balancing my academics and personal commitments, I spearheaded over 10 pivotal events, from Open Houses to enlightening International Student Orientations. This journey also let me wear the hat of a mentor, guiding over 20 budding international talents, assisting them in navigating the unique tapestry of Tilton's ethos.

Crafting Bridges and Bonds: The first rays of senior year cast a luminous glow, revealing a newfound designation next to my name: “International Liaison.” With this honor came a pivotal mission: to intertwine hearts and minds within the school's diverse tapestry. Among the initiatives I championed, the “Language Buddy” program stands out brilliantly. This venture seamlessly interwove 28 international students with their local peers, cultivating not merely linguistic camaraderies but also deep-rooted friendships that defied boundaries.

Ambassador Role: Pathways Paved under the Tilton Sun

As the International Liaison at Tilton School, I have been accorded the distinct honor by our esteemed Headmaster to serve as the voiceover artist for the Chinese rendition of Tilton's official promotional video. This significant responsibility underscores my commitment and proficiency in bridging cultural and linguistic barriers to bolster the school's international presence.

International Voices United: The Birth of ISSA

Autumn leaves crunched beneath my feet in 2018, mirroring the restless thoughts in my mind. International students, pulsating with tales from every corner of the globe, lacked a collective platform, a unified voice. And so, from countless brainstorming nights and meticulous surveys, the International Student and Scholar Association (ISSA) took shape. As its co-founder and the president, I envisioned it as a beacon for international advocacy, ensuring each voice echoed powerfully within Tilton’s hallowed halls.

In Fall 2019, I introduced an International Books Corner, donating over 300 Chinese books. I also orchestrated significant events, like the unforgettable Hot Pot dinner, and even facilitated enriching engagements such as inviting the revered Prof. Tianxin Cai from Zhejiang University, captivating over 100 eager listeners with his lecture.

Event Spotlights:

Tilton’s International Fair: A Panorama of Cultures and Celebrations

  • The school grounds transformed into a global village. With 20 stalls, each a window to a different part of the world, Tilton's International Fair became a sensation. A visual and sensory fiesta awaited over 300 attendees, as they journeyed through diverse terrains, sampling exotic delicacies, and getting enraptured by cultural performances. As the day culminated, one sentiment echoed: it was not just an event, but an enlightening journey around the world, right within Tilton's embrace.

The Hot Pot Symphony: Unity, Warmth, and Culinary Traditions

  • As the Chinese New Year neared, a singular vision took root. The quintessential hot pot, symbolizing unity and togetherness – "团团圆圆过大年". With tireless consultations and collaborations with the faculty, this age-old tradition transformed into a grand formal feast. The school’s dining hall echoed with the sizzle of broths and over 300 individuals savoring the delicacies. Yet, beyond the flavors, it was a canvas of shared tales, hearty laughter, and a blooming appreciation for a culture rich in history.

Engrossed in a book beside the International Books Corner.

Professor Cai’s Scholarly Sojourn: A Confluence of Mathematics and Poetry

  • The corridors buzzed with anticipation. Professor Cai, a luminary in Chinese mathematics and poetry, was about to grace Tilton. Representing the esteemed Zhejiang University, his visit drew an enraptured audience of over 100 students and faculty. Delving into the intricate dance between mathematics and poetry, the day was a tapestry of immersive workshops, enlightening discussions, and profound lectures that left an indelible mark on our minds.

Part 3: The Academic Odyssey

“In the classrooms of Tilton, every lecture, assignment, and discussion became a stepping stone, guiding my intellectual and creative journey.”

Journey Through the Labyrinth of English

  • Freshman Year

    In the early days of my freshman year, I was a fledgling in a vast linguistic landscape. My English, a work-in-progress, found its nurturing ground in the ESL class under the gentle guidance of Mr. Monty. With his ever-present encouraging smile, he did more than just teach - he kindled a flame of linguistic passion within me.

  • Sophomore Year

    By my sophomore year, armed with determination and a refined proficiency, I transitioned into the 10th-grade regular English class. Sharing a learning space with native speakers was a testament to my evolution. I felt empowered, competent. Among the myriad projects and assignments, one, in particular, left an indelible mark on my psyche: "Creating My Utopia". It was a mirror, a deep introspective journey that made me ponder my identity, aspirations, and life's passions.

  • Junior Year

    My junior year marked a significant milestone. Leaping into the AP English class felt like diving into deeper, uncharted waters. The challenge was amplified, but serendipity had my back. Mr. Redman, my English teacher, also happened to be my cross country coach. This unique blend of academics and sports meant that our cross country practices were punctuated with enriching English lessons.

  • Senior Year

    Senior year summoned me with the enthralling charm of literary masterpieces. Choosing AP Lit was no mere decision; it was a calling, fueled by my ambition to delve into the profound intricacies of timeless works like "Hamlet." My teacher, Mr. Landroche, a figure of both rigor and whimsy, also happened to be my advisor. Stern in his teaching yet peppered with unexpected humor, he guided my literary exploration with precision and flair. Within the confines of his classroom, every page turned was not just words on paper, but a discovery, a fascinating journey that laid bare aspects of the English language and its literary tapestry that had once been veiled from my eyes.

The Canvas of Memories: Tilton Through My Palette

Before I had even perfected the scribble of my own name, the crayon's distinctive silhouette was already a steadfast companion in my hand. In the pure, unadulterated days of childhood, a blank canvas wasn't just an empty expanse. To me, it whispered tales of unexplored galaxies, fervently awaiting the tales my colors and imaginations would craft. Each whimsical doodle or deliberate line I sketched was a chorus of a nascent artist's voice, trying to map her understanding of an expansive universe onto paper.

It was within the echoing corridors of Tilton that this dormant spark for artistry was kindled and sculpted. As I journeyed into my junior year, a time when the tumultuous waves of adolescence were peppered with both anxieties and thrills, I found myself courageously navigating the intricate lanes of AP Art. Here, the quest wasn't solely about refining techniques or discerning the nuances of perspectives. It morphed into an odyssey—translating the canvas into a vibrant tapestry of memories, most poignantly, the ones engraved during my Tilton days.

This artful voyage birthed a series, every brushstroke infused with emotion, aptly christened, “Home Away from Home.” Across these ten masterpieces, I spun a visual narrative, preserving the ephemeral yet deep-rooted episodes of Tilton. One canvas vividly brought to life the serene sanctity of the school chapel, where every Friday, a medley of voices united in harmonious assemblies. Another, with strokes dipped in shades of twilight, evoked the mesmerizing amber glow of Tilton's main tower, a testament to nature's artistry that always left me spellbound.

Yet, “Home Away from Home” transcended beyond being a portfolio of my maturation as an artist. It emerged as a heartfelt sonnet to Tilton—a symphonic chronicle of moments of introspection seamlessly woven with exuberant camaraderie, challenges faced with tenacity, and the myriad sunrises and sunsets that painted the horizon of my memorable school years.

Part 4: Awards & Honors

“At Tilton, every accolade was not just a recognition of past efforts but a beacon lighting up the path for future endeavors.”

National Recognitions

  • National Honor Society

    A crowning achievement that recognized my academic excellence and commitment to community service.

  • Wellesley Prize Book

    An esteemed honor celebrating my intellectual curiosity, academic promise, and leadership abilities.

Distinctions at Tilton

  • MacMorran Scholars (2016-2020)

    Four consecutive years of consistent academic achievements, demonstrating a commitment to scholastic excellence.

  • Admission Ambassador (2016-2020)

    From the start, I became a face of Tilton, guiding new souls as they began their own Tilton adventures

  • School International Liaison (2018-2020)

    Bridging gaps, understanding cultures, and fostering global unity became an integral part of my Tilton journey.

Athletic Endeavors

  • Cross Country

    Honored with the Coaches Award and recognized as the Most Improved Runner, each stride I took was a testament to my growth.

Special Invitations - A Nod to My Leadership

  • Dec 2018

    Represented Tilton at the Interstate Interaction Conference and participated in NAMI NH’s Connect Suicide Prevention Youth Leader Training Program – a beacon of hope initiative for struggling youth.

  • Dec 2018

    Attended the esteemed National Youth Leadership Forum after being handpicked for my insight into National Security, Diplomacy, Intelligence, and Defense, showcasing my commitment to global understanding.

Part 5: Voices of Influence

“Behind every successful student at Tilton are mentors whose words of wisdom become the guiding stars, illuminating the path of exploration and discovery.”

Mr. Micheal Landroche, Dean of Academic at Tilton, AP Lit Professor

“Jessica….”

Part 6: Tilton Memories

“As I turn the pages of the Tilton chapter in my life, a mosaic of laughter, challenges, friendships, and invaluable moments come to life.”

Capturing 50,000 Views: My Journey Through American High School Experiences

In my senior year of high school, I launched a WeChat public account to document my journey, providing an in-depth reflection on my experiences. My goal was to share my insights and adventures with a wider audience, especially those considering or newly enrolled in American high schools.

By the end of 2020, I had written 18 original articles, exploring varied subjects like “Participating in American Sports.” Together, these pieces amassed over 50,000 views. One article, in particular, stood out, garnering 6,018 views and being shared 103 times. Its impact was further magnified when it was featured on over 10 prominent WeChat accounts and news platforms.

  • Received the “MacMorran Scholarship” during my freshman year. Pictured with the headmaster, his spouse, the dean of the school, and the head of admissions (from left to right).

  • Received the “MacMorran Scholarship” during my sophomore year. Pictured with the dean of the school, the headmaster, and his spouse (from left to right).

  • Received the “MacMorran Scholarship” during my junior year. Pictured with the dean of the school.

  • Received the “MacMorran Scholarship” during my senior year. Pictured with the headmaster.

  • Received accolades from the National Honor Society.

  • Was honored with a gold ribbon from the National Honors Society.

  • Awarded the “Wellesley Prize Book” distinction.

  • Honored with the “Most Improved Runner” distinction in Cross Country.

  • Invited to the headmaster‘s residence for a discussion on international student leadership

  • Had a discussion with faculty from the school's international affairs department about developing more events and activities for international students.

  • Pictured with my junior year math teacher, who observed my growth in mathematics and celebrated my high score on the AP test.

  • Pictured alongside my cherished teacher in Tilton, who first introduced me to Wellesley College. It was through her guidance that I received a personal invitation from the school.

  • Highlighted me on the school’s front page.

  • My friend and I, who co-founded the International Student Organization ISSA, garnered significant recognition from the school.

  • Sharing our growth stories, my best roommate from the Dominican Republic and I bonded deeply.

  • Gathering with my friends from around the world, we embraced warmly in Tilton.

  • Joined the Headmaster to perform on the ukulele at an art festival in Tilton.

  • Volunteering with my lacrosse team for community service.

  • Celebrating my achievement of 6th place at the Lakes Region Championship, my cross country team rallied behind me with joy and pride.

  • Me and my friends from Tilton.

  • Me and my friends from Tilton.

  • Me and my friend from Tilton.

Part 7: The End

“As one chapter ends, another begins, yet the lessons, memories, and bonds forged at Tilton School remain an indelible part of my narrative.”

Next

University of Washington: Refining the Flavor