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Be You, Be Determined | Approaching the Cambridge Dream
In this series, pupils will share their university journey with us, how they started their journey and what kept them going through the years and months running up to their offers. They will also share their thoughts and advice with those just starting their journey.
During the application season, Herman was the recipient of over 10 offers from esteemed institutions such as Cambridge University, Imperial College London, New York University, and Vassar College, among others. Despite the initial exhilaration that came with this impressive array of options, Herman soon returned to his typical state of composure. It was as though he viewed the situation akin to a chess game, where he, as the player, maintained a sense of calm and ease.
Academic Passion: A Must for Dual Applications to the UK and US
The application season can be an intense period for many pupils. Applying to institutions across different countries adds layers of complexity as each application set requires distinct preparation. This was a major reason why Herman opted to transfer to Wellington College Tianjin. “I always intended to apply to both the UK and the US, but my former school didn’t cater to this,” he remarked. Herman sought an international environment, an A Level programme, and support for multiple regional applications; Wellington College Tianjin, recommended by a classmate, proved to be the ideal choice. The transition was seamless and wise.
At Wellington, Herman's potential in mathematics blossomed, guiding his professional aspirations. During a Year 13 session, Ms Shi, the Director of International Curriculum Centre, introduced Herman, noting his shyness but also his ability to discuss mathematics at length. Usually concise in interviews, Herman's passion for maths illustrated a different side. He could eloquently discuss the works of Bernhard Riemann and mathematical theories. One teacher highlighted Herman’s dedication, noting his tireless work on problems even after long competition days.
His Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) presentation on the abstract topic of number theory earned widespread admiration, clearly demonstrating his "academic passion" as depicted in his application essays.
Herman modestly refutes the label of being "gifted," asserting that passion is crucial for professional growth. After his Cambridge interview, he learned of a talented candidate who had not succeeded, potentially due to a lack of passion. Admissions officers are adept at identifying the most passionate and suitable pupils. Thus, while sympathising with the unsuccessful candidate and doubting his own display of passion, Herman's confident answers and evident enthusiasm ultimately assured his success.
Breaking the Anxiety
In an era where competition is omnipresent—from academic achievements to subject contests, music to sports—it's easy to become ensnared without even realising it. However, Herman remains a notable exception. At Wellington College Tianjin's boarding house, the designated lights-out time for seniors is 10:30 PM, with extensions available for additional study if necessary. Yet Herman has always adhered to this schedule since his arrival. Maintaining such a regular and healthy routine amid intense study demands reflects his excellent time management, study efficiency, and quality. When asked how he achieves this, Herman simply attributes it to his "conscience."
Herman's classmates regard him as particularly adept at balancing work and rest. In his free time, he enjoys playing a few games or immersing himself in his favourite anime. While these activities might cause concern for many parents, Herman views them as a way to relax his mind, and his parents never interfere with his leisure pursuits. When questioned about how he maintains focus amid the allure of virtual worlds, his answer remains "conscience."
"To know the good and the evil is conscience, and to remove the evil for the sake of the good is to act." By quoting Wang Shouren, a renowned scholar from the Ming Dynasty, Herman illustrates how he integrates this philosophy into his life, showcasing his deep philosophical insight. He is a pupil with clear goals and a determined plan to achieve them.
During his senior school years, Herman's primary objective was acceptance into his dream university, and all his efforts were directed towards this goal. Beyond his academic excellence, Herman co-founded Wellington College Tianjin's first multidisciplinary econometrics club, encompassing economics, history, and politics, and participated in Eric Lindell's charity programme. He acknowledges that these activities were partly motivated by his university applications, yet he genuinely enjoyed promoting econometrics among senior pupils, honing his leadership skills, experiencing teamwork, and learning to take responsibility through charitable endeavours.
"I've never engaged in ruthless competition, although my grades might have unsettled others,"
Herman says with a mix of confidence and humour. His ability to advance at his own pace highlights his determination, multitasking, and time management skills. To others, these attributes are evident, but Herman credits his accomplishments to the support and freedom provided by Wellington, and the unwavering strength and composure of his mother.
The Secret to Certainty Amidst Uncertainty: Plan B
Securing a place at Cambridge was the crowning achievement of Herman's application season. His first offer, however, came from the University of Warwick, a moment that delighted his family, especially his mother.
"She has always believed in me and has been my strongest supporter,"
Herman says. He remembers facing self-doubt after losing an international competition due to inexperience. It was his mother's gentle guidance that restored his confidence, leading to the prestigious awards he subsequently earned in various subject competitions.
"When challenges arise, I discuss them with my mum, and her analysis makes everything seem solvable. I am immensely grateful to her."
This touching sentiment from a young gentleman highlights the deep bond he shares with his mother.
Herman also feels immense gratitude towards the Wellington College Tianjin community. The camaraderie of his classmates, the abundant wisdom of his teachers, and the support from Wellington alumni, including mock interviews conducted by a Cambridge mathematics student, all strengthened his pursuit of his dreams.
The second piece of good news arrived with Herman's acceptance to Cambridge, a prestigious institution where the world's top talents converge. His confidence increased as he contemplated his future, yet he remained pragmatic about the uncertainties until the final exam results were announced. Reflecting on the possibility of not securing a place at Cambridge, Herman remained composed.
"Unconditional admission to New York University was my second choice. The Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at NYU is one of the few institutions solely dedicated to mathematics, and its Applied Mathematics major is among the best." His logical and assured response revealed no hesitation, only confidence and calm.
As for his future development, Herman is cautious about making premature conclusions. He believes the expansive field of mathematics offers numerous opportunities that attract him. Therefore, he is content to follow his own pace, allowing the answers to emerge naturally through his journey of discovery.
As Mr Traber, the Head of Mathematics at Wellington College Tianjin and one of Herman's teachers, aptly put it, "Herman will relish every moment of learning at university."
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