“We were lied to my fellow students! The studious life never ends. We will have to accept learning for the rest of our lives.”

Naturally, students ask themselves “what are we learning this for?” Of course gaining more knowledge to achieve their personal goals is one purpose of learning. However, as a member of society, making necessary contributions to help others can build self-confidence and self-fulfillment, and ultimately lead to success.

Starting from Semester 2, the Character Education Program at YCIS Chongqing has seen our Year 13 students on a quest to find a world beyond learning: mentoring. Students are divided into different groups and each group is allowed to select one teaching staff who will be interviewed with a list of questions students have developed. From the interview process, many of our teachers shared their study and working experience that have impacted their life and occupation, as well as their view of the world.

The Year 13s were astounded by many answers they received from the teachers. While Mr. Macintosh listed his previous 10 jobs, and one of them is an aqua-aerobics instructor, students concluded that there are a lot of paths one can walk or swim in this case. Students have realized that it is the accumulated experience and knowledge of these mentors that will help and guide them make the right decisions. Soon to be graduating, the Year 13s, hopefully, one day will pass on their stories to the world as mentors.

—Yang Lei Year 13.