The Class of 2024 has received offers from around the world, including from well-known universities in the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries and regions. So far, students have had offers from top universities in the US such as California Institute of Technology, Yale University, University of Chicago, Brown University, Washington University, Vanderbilt University, Northwestern University, Emory University, Minerva University, New York University, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Southern California and Tufts University. Showing the cohort’s diversity of interests, they have also received offers from top liberal arts colleges including Pomona College, Carleton College, and Claremont McKenna College. For institutions in the UK, Pao School students have received offers from Oxford University, Cambridge University, Imperial College London, London School of Economics, University College London, King's College London, University of Warwick, University of St Andrews, the University of Manchester, and many other Russell Group Universities. Top art schools’ offers include Parsons School of Design and School of Visual Arts. At the same time, the class has received offers from top academic institutions in other regions and countries such as Canada, Australia and Hong Kong SAR, China.
More stories from this year's graduates:
A ray of light in a scientific ocean
Pao School inspires innovative, self-confident thinker
Duan Bowen
Admitted by: Yale University, US
Intended major: Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
In 2017, Duan Bowen moved to Sweden with his parents, after completing his primary education in Shanghai. His Years 6 and 7 education took place overseas. Upon the family’s return, they sought a Shanghai school with the same international atmosphere they had found in Sweden. Following a strong recommendation from a friend, they settled on Pao School, which Bowen entered in Year 8.
Reflecting on Bowen's journey at Pao School, his mother expressed, "The teachers at Pao School are like nurturing parents, providing boundless love and encouragement to the children. Whether it was the comforting reassurance from the housemaster, Mr. McCombe, the praise and encouragement from Chinese teacher, Ms. Jennifer Tang, or the guidance from the Executive Headmaster, Mr. Mark Bishop, and even the meals kept warm by the canteen Ayi for students who arrived late, all these acts of love fostered a fulfilling and unforgettable five years of school life. The whole person education philosophy of Pao School has cultivated well-rounded students with diverse talents."
Bowen while studying in Sweden
Bowen quickly immersed himself in the Pao School environment, bonding closely with his classmates, with whom he plunged into conversations spanning art, music, literature, and current affairs. He recognized that his new school's student body was exceptional, marked by an unusual concentration of talent and intellectual passion. With these peers, he explored topics of discussion including the computer revolution in biology, and how artificial intelligence could be used to treat diseases from cancer to Alzheimer's. One close friend was a Korean roommate, who had a keen interest in philosophy and architecture, with a fascination for the historical and political aspects of urban planning, as well as for the architectural styles in Shanghai and worldwide. He also enjoyed conversations with students enthused by mathematics and political philosophy, who were eager to share what they had learnt, along with recommended readings.
Bowen expected high school to be narrowly focused on academics, neglecting wider social engagement. Pao School shattered these preconceptions. The school's commitment to social issues and compassion for the underprivileged re-ignited his interest in society and current events. "Pao School is a community that genuinely cares about those in need,” he said. “And this outpouring of compassion fueled my passion for social issues." Inspired by this ethos, Bowen joined the Green Origin club, an organization dedicated to environmental protection in the Songjiang area. He even initiated his own group, the Social Issues Club, where students could share information on current affairs and engage in discussions concerning poverty alleviation, and sustainable development.
Behind every remarkable child stand supportive parents, and the dedicated PTA serve as a steadfast pillar of support for both the children and parents throughout their entire journey. A child's development is not without challenges or academic ups and downs, but when faced with difficulties, parents within Pao School unite as one to actively seek solutions. It is thanks to these incredibly loving parents that our children thrive.
—— Bowen's Mom
Among the wide variety of IB subjects on offer, Bowen was particularly fascinated by IB Philosophy, which he chose to study at a Higher Level. In the IB Philosophy class, which consisted of approximately 10 students, he established a close relationship with their teacher, Mr. Andrew Riege. Mr. Riege's teaching approach focused on integrating philosophical theories with real-life practical applications. By connecting abstract philosophical concepts with ethics and morality, he made the subject more vivid and relatable.
The IB Philosophy class is largely discussion based. This allows students to explore ideas from multiple perspectives instead of learning content. Bowen has been an integral part of the class. He is very open minded and willing to consider a conflicting viewpoint. He is happy to argue from any position and enriches the class discussions. He has learned a great deal of philosophy, and more importantly, how to do philosophy. Over the past two years he has improved his critical thinking skills, his awareness of the world around him, and has matured into a young man I believe will make a difference in our world.
—— Andrew Riege,
High School Head of Philosophy
Dora Zuo
Admitted by: Northwestern University, US
Intended major: Drama
Dora Zuo recalled the affection she had felt for Pao School from the moment she first set foot on campus. As a student there, she eagerly looked forward to attending school every day. The campus contained both friendly teachers and a wonderful group of students who became her dear friends. Even as she entered the demanding IB stage with its heavy academic workload, she continued to find joy in her school days. "Being able to see my friends at school every day was a continuous source of happiness," she says.
When we applied to Pao School, as I strolled through the Songjiang campus, I encountered a young girl with confidence and vitality. She approached me with a polite greeting, instantly alleviating my nervousness. At that moment, I wished for my daughter to grow up on this campus as a youthful, cheerful, kind-hearted, and well-educated individual.
——Dora’s mother
Before enrolling at Pao School, Dora attended a bilingual primary school. This environment had a significant influence on her later life, sparking a deep interest in languages. Additionally, her three years of choir experience made music an integral part of her life. After she entered Pao School these passions continued to flourish, and were nurtured further. For instance, in Year 6, she began learning French and became a member of the Chinese literature Club ‘Reborn’. She actively participated in concerts and drama performances as well.
Pao School placed a greater emphasis on fostering personality than her previous school had done. Pao School students are not solely evaluated based on their grades. Rather, everyone finds their unique place within the school community, based upon their varied talents, personal qualities, and interests, which they eagerly share with others.
Among six IB courses, it was drama that held a special place in Dora's heart, becoming the central focus of her studies and life. The experiences of participating in drama classes, completing independent assignments for the IB program, engaging in club activities, and dedicating countless nights to performing on stage, were to become her most cherished memories of Pao School, which still bring her immeasurable satisfaction. Drama has been a constant companion throughout her years of growth, honing her independence and confidence, and instilling in her the courage to confront challenges with bravery.
Dora has been an absolute standout in our IB Theatre course. Over the past two years, I've witnessed her grow tremendously as a theatre artist and young woman. Our curriculum provides students with a supportive environment to take risks, develop confidence, and realize their creative potential. Dora has thrived in this environment. I'm continually impressed by her artistic instincts, resilience, and commitment to the craft. She represents the tremendous personal growth possible through engagement with theatre.
—— Kobus van der Colff
High School Head of Drama
Looking back on her early days at Pao School, she recalls an initial lack of confidence. When auditioning for the school play ‘Cinderella’ shortly after starting high school, she almost lost her voice on stage. Her confidence grew a few months later, after the performance concluded, when she encountered Principal Mark Bishop, who was greeting students at the library entrance as usual. He commended her by saying, "You performed exceptionally well yesterday!" On that same day, she received encouragement from numerous strangers and older students on campus. "The Pao School community is incredibly friendly,” Dora says. “It provided me with a profound sense of security, and the freedom to boldly explore new endeavours and connect with diverse audiences.
Now, she strives to pass on that same encouragement to her fellow students. Driven by a desire to contribute to the community, she founded the student drama club called Comet Cabaret, along with her friends Kitty Su and Eve Xu, who share her passion for musicals. Together, they organized a series of musical performances with themes centred around Women's Voice. They are currently preparing for another performance scheduled for March of this year, focusing on Love and Dreams. Over the past two years, nearly 30 students have participated in these performances, creating a lively and inclusive artistic community.
Many unpredictable factors come into play during drama performances, bringing actors unexpected challenges. While facing large audiences, Dora has experienced situations where her fellow actors forgot their lines, or even where she did so herself. In such moments, everything hinges on the team's mutual support, adaptability, and the collective effort put into daily rehearsals. "On stage, actors must remain calm and quickly forgive themselves for any mistakes,” she says. “It is crucial to ensure that the show goes on." Her belief in persevering through any mishaps also gives her strength off-stage.
The Chinese Drama Club had organized the play ‘Twelve Citizens’ and only two weeks remained before the opening night. The crew reached out to her, hoping she could step in as a substitute actor for a senior student who couldn't participate due to exams. She agreed, and in those two weeks, she seized every opportunity to memorize her lines, adhere to the schedule, and actively engage in rehearsals. With the support of everyone involved, she ultimately found herself standing on stage, successfully completing the performance.
Now, as Dora reflects on her early days at Pao School, she realizes how much she has grown beyond her youthful self-doubt. Along with her many beautiful memories has come a profound understanding of the passage of time — of a long and meaningful journey to self-understanding and self-confidence.
