As the caps are thrown towards the sky, another class of outstanding HFIers puts a full stop to their high school life.

The class of 2023 has experienced an unprecedentedly arduous high school life at HFI. Even their class names—-(Alexander) Fleming, (Joseph) Lister, (Florence) Nightingale, and (Tu) Youyou, all giants in the field of medicine—reflect the hardships they have experienced from the pandemic.

The breakout of COVID-19 in 2020 brought upon many unfortunate changes in their lives. Yet there will always be a silver lining. What they have gained and learned from all the setbacks is what makes this journey special, meaningful, and, instead, extremely fortunate.

If “self-learning” and “self-growth” have been the themes for students’ lives at HFI, then they have painted another layer of significance on the canvas: Living in resonance with the era of theirs. This can mean bitterness and suffering, but it has also brought them strength and tenacity. Here they are, having endured three extraordinary years full of unexpectancy and finally arriving at a destination that will not last long: The class of 2023.

This is far from the end, and may the graduates continue to create their own unique significance in the future.

-- HFI Huafu International Department

Words of Blessing

Principal Yao Xunqi, head of the High School Affiliated to South China Normal University, first sends his sincere blessings to the graduates.

Principal Yao starts with the "Silk Road" as an example, explaining how China greatly emphasized the importance of foreign trade and cultural exchanges as early as thousands of years ago, with international education playing a significant role in cultural exchange. The students of HFI are just like modern "Silk Road" travelers. While going to foreign universities to acquire knowledge, they also shoulder the important task of spreading Chinese culture.

Set Sail When the Time Is Right

“I hope everyone can find the meaning of studying abroad. It is not a task or an arranged option. You will travel around the world to witness the sun, moon, and stars. This is a journey to discover your inner heart, and it is also a critical moment for you to determine the trajectory of your life. Therefore, the best "time" is when you realize why you set off, and with faith, you can set sail smoothly.”

Always Seek Knowledge and Truth

“The universities where everyone goes for further studies are world-renowned academic resorts. While possessing these world-leading academic resources, you need to have enough self-discipline to support your excellence. Don't waste your hard-earned opportunities. Four years of schooling career is fleeting, and thus, everyone must cherish it. In this information era, never stop seeking knowledge and truth.”

Harmonious Relationships Shall Prevail

“It is very important to unite with those around you, and it is very important to have the ability to distinguish good from bad to ensure your own safety. I hope that while you are away from home, you can stay in touch with your family, teachers, and classmates. They will become your important source of spiritual energy.”

Principal Zhu Zhidong, head of the Huafu International Department (HFI), also sends his graduation blessings to the 2023 HFI graduates.

Before the epidemic, May and June were the busiest months for Principal Zhu. In addition to attending the HFI graduation ceremony, he would also go to the United States to attend the university graduation ceremony of HFI alumni.

Principal Zhu proclaims that time is the best witness for the results of education. Countless outstanding students, each being unique individuals, have chosen the platform of HFI. They start their life of trial and error at HFI, improving their self-awareness and achieving self-growth, departing from HFI to enter a new stage of life. Even after leaving, they are still able to take on the qualities acquired here and continue the spirit of HFI.

Therefore, at the time of parting, President Zhu Zhidong does not give any specific suggestions to the graduates but expresses his hopes that the graduates of 2023 will be able to explore their lives, make decisions and mistakes, and chase after their own stars in the sky.

Principal Sheldon Smith, academic head of the Huafu International Department (HFI), continues the tradition of showing off his dry British humor, adding some smiles to this slightly sad occasion.

Regarding the impact of the epidemic, Principal Sheldon does not dwell on it too much. He believes that the epidemic did not define students; it was just "one of many background events." (“Covid was a thing, but it didn't define who you were. It was just something in the background.”)

Principal Sheldon hopes that the graduates will be grateful not only to the teachers of the school but also to "every student who sat and studied next to you in the same classroom."

In addition to the blessings from the principals, the voices of the graduates were, of course, indispensable at the graduation ceremony. Wang Ziyu Kinsey, the representative of the 2023 graduates, gave a speech on the theme of "change".

In his view, while "change" could mean leaving the comfort zone with feelings of uneasiness, it also indicates progress. Kinsey calls on the students to thank the classmates and friends who struggled together, the teachers who taught carefully, and the parents who were infinitely tolerant and unconditionally supportive.

(Full speech can be seen here: https://www.gdhfi.com/en/article/520.html)

During the graduation ceremony, outstanding graduates were commended.

At HFI, graduation not only means separation and farewell but also represents continuity and legacy. Each year, the graduates pass on the flag symbolizing hard work and diligence to the rising seniors. This way, the empowering spirit of our students is passed down from generation to generation, inspiring every single HFIer in the future!

Class of 2023 HFIers, Congratulations!

“Life is a journey, and travel it well.”

Writers: Annie Liu, Mary Zhou

Pictures: HFIers