A little bit about myself

     Hi, I’m Joseph, a 14-year-old student at Wellington College International Shanghai.  I am a person who is full of passion and curiosity, and I think that shows on my certain strengths and hobbies. I am also an incredibly social person, and I enjoy collaboration. I always say that living a life where ourselves have the ultimate control and freedom is the best. My favorite quote of all time is of Bill Keane “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, which is why we call it the present.” I adore this quote because it puts a focus on not worrying too much about the future or the past, but rather focusing and staying positive on the present, which I agree the most on. It also reminds me of how lucky we are to have this “present”.

     My personal interests and hobbies include playing guitar and listening to music, studying science (biology), and, of course, hanging out with my friends.

     I love music because it is a way to get my negative emotions out and focus on being positive. Playing guitar is my favorite thing to do, as it takes me to a different level of music. During the pandemic, while I was stuck at home, I assembled an electric guitar with help from my grandpa and online friends from around the world who share my passion for guitars. In 2023, I also achieved the highest score in RSL/Rockschool Grade 6 Exam in mainland China. But the thing I enjoy the most is playing guitar on stage. Not only am I enjoying myself, I’m also spreading the charm of music to the audience.

     My interest in science (biology in particular) has lead me to become a more thinking driven person. Science always spike my curiosity, and I like biology the most. This is because when you think of it, how we exist is always a wonder. How has life turned from single cell organisms to such complex creatures? How do single cell organisms exist in the first place?

     Sports also play a significant role in my life. I play tennis and soccer for fun, and at the same time, I am a dedicated swimmer. Swimming has taught me the value of perseverance and discipline.

     I also do a lot of charity. One charity group I have been involved in is Pride from the Mountains, where I led a group of minority children in China to tour the most modern city in China, Shanghai. I also performed at a blood donation charity, where I really felt music could change the world.

     Finally, I am incredibly excited for the following year where I will be going abroad to the states for high school, and I really look forward studying there.