“Why do we celebrate graduation?”

“We celebrate graduation because we celebrate life. And yes, this is the start of a whole new adventure.” —Maxon Li, class of 2024 student commencement speaker.

Adorned in elaborate gowns and caps, the HFI Class of 2024 assembled in the lecture hall on June 15th for their final high school ceremony—Graduation. The event was marked by a stirring opening address from HFI Academic Principal Joseph Hearn, who guided the students into the hall. Flanking the lecture hall were the proud parents and dedicated teachers of the class of 2024, united in their shared anticipation of this sacred and unforgettable moment in the students’ lives.

Once everyone was settled, the stage was taken by Mr. Yao Xunqi, principal of the Affiliated High School of SCNU, Mr. Zhu Zhidong, founder and director of HFI, and Principal Hearn, each delivering a heartfelt speech to bestow their sincere blessings upon the graduates. They encouraged the students to ‘derive wisdom from every experience and relish in the victories, big and small, along the way!’ Principal Zhu’s unconventional speech delved into the philosophical realm, exploring the meaning of life in the context of time and space.

“Humans are insignificant in the universe’s history, but our evolution has been a near-impossible feat. Earth is the only known planet with life and advanced intelligence, and its existence holds an almost infinite probability. Every life is a miracle, so while it is crucial for us to pursue traditional success, we must live out its splendor and value and create value for others.”—Principal Zhu.

The culmination of the graduation ceremony happened during the presentation of diplomas. One by one, the graduating students walked to the center of the stage to receive their diplomas from Principal Hearn as the emcee loudly called out their names. With proud smiles, each graduate was thrilled to receive their diploma, hold it proudly to their chests, and have their picture taken. When they walk off the stage, they officially graduate. It's an official goodbye to their anxiety-filled, slightly painful, yet memorable and joyful high school experience, as well as a farewell to their youth. From then on, they will embark on a new journey of life and continue to thrive in different universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Hong Kong, and other places worldwide.

At the end of the ceremony, the graduates bowed sincerely to their parents and teachers to express their gratitude. The graduates thanked their teachers for the three years of teaching that they will carry on for a lifetime and their parents for raising them. Now that the graduates are turning a new page in life, they ask their parents and teachers to rest assured that they will care for themselves and live out their ideal lives. The graduation ceremony has ended, but the pursuit of intellect, the challenge of self, and the exploration of life will forever continue!

Acknowledgments

Writer: Bonnie Liu

Editor: Annie Liu