Enning Li (China) - Burwood Girls High School

Studying in a NSW government school has been a rewarding experience for me and is a decision that I have never regretted. Here in NSW, I have not only achieved academic success but also developed so many skills through extracurricular activities, which still has a profound influence on me today.

My success was substantially backed by the support I received from the teachers and staff at Burwood Girls High School, who truly wished the success of every international student. They understood the needs and struggles of international students, while providing insightful advice for us. Every time I walked by their office, I would drop by, say hello, and catch up with them.

Other than studying, whether to enjoy the charm of music in school concert band, or to pursue my ambition to help disadvantaged people through organising fundraising, I had many opportunities to truly explore life and develop my skills. Through these co-curricular activities, I also made new friends, many of whom I am still in touch with at university.

More importantly, studying here has taught me to be inclusive, open-minded, and a critical thinker. Being in a multicultural environment means that I could hear voices from different cultural backgrounds. Although it could be culturally shocking when first encountered due to all the cultural differences, it taught me to embrace the differences and respect them, and finally, to become a critical thinker.

After nearly two years in Burwood Girls High School, our school motto 'Not for Ourselves Alone' has been internalised deeply into my heart. With all the skills and values I learned in high school, I have set my goal as improving the welfare of the global community as a global citizen.