Celine, Year 13, Gubei Campus

Growing up as an international school student in a metropolitan city as fast changing as Shanghai, I have learnt a very important lesson: people may come and go, but home is where the heart is.

Friendships are made and consolidated over late afternoon study sessions at Starbucks across the street from school, or at the many events the school holds. Despite these sweet memories, a friend will inevitably leave the school to start their journey elsewhere some time or another. That is the reality of being an international school student; however, what is incredible about YCIS is that no matter how long or short students stay here for, the sense of community is extremely strong. Even after students leave the school, they are still a part of the YCIS community, and graduates and students who have moved away come back to campus to visit whenever possible.

In many ways, this is why I chose to essentially “grow up” at YCIS. Yes, I have had to prepare my hugs and tears for people when they have returned home, but soon, new friendships are made, and although people have left, they are never forgotten.

As a 16 year old who has spent 15 of those years at YCIS, I definitely feel very much a part of the community that each and every one of us has helped foster during our years here. YCIS is home to me not just because it is where my friends are, but also where my heart is. Graduating and leaving YCIS next June will be strange, as I will be moving on from my time at YCIS, but I know that no matter where I go, the YCIS community worldwide will be there for me, and will be with me always.