Sailing East with a Heart of Healing Dreams

2025-09-25

In our new Hiba Diaries: Pupil Journeys, our pupils share their stories of their school life as they pursue their dreams.

In our first story, we meet Ethan, an international boarder joining us from the UK. His journey is about more than adapting to a new place. It’s about bridging cultures and following his aspirations to study medicine at university. Hiba Academy Nantong marks the start of this new chapter.

Ethan’s connection to China comes from his mother’s heritage and his family’s bicultural background. For him, China is more than just a place to explore – it feels like home. “People are often surprised when they hear me speak Chinese so fluently,” he says with a smile.

After four years of learning Chinese in the UK, Ethan was primed to be a bridge builder at Hiba. He’s only been at Hiba for a month, and he’s already helping fellow pupils from different backgrounds. He regularly translates between English and Chinese, introduces international pupils to Chinese food and helps Chinese classmates practise their English. This two-way exchange benefits everyone, and Ethan enjoys seeing his own skills improve as he helps others. “It really is a win-win,” he says.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

Ethan already had some understanding of Chinese culture before arriving. But living and studying in China has brought new discoveries. “Teachers here expect a lot from us and lessons move quickly, especially in maths,” he explains. “In the UK, the pace is slower and more step-by-step, but here, you’re encouraged to aim higher. It’s harder work, but the pressure keeps me moving forward.”

Life outside the classroom is just as lively. Hiba Academy Nantong offers a wide range of clubs and activities, giving Ethan plenty of chances to explore new interests. He was recently elected captain of the school football team and will soon lead them in their first match. Boarding has helped him grow in independence. Weekend trips, like climbing Langshan or visiting Guangjiao Temple, have broadened his horizons. “Every step I take, I feel like I’m growing too.”

A Future Dream in Medicine

Even before coming to China, Ethan was aiming for university, hoping to study Biochemistry or Medicine at the University of Edinburgh. “I’ve always wanted to help others, and medicine or biochemistry is the perfect way to do that,” he says.

His short time at Hiba Academy Nantong has helped make his ambition even clearer. His university guidance counsellor and chemistry teacher have advised him on the coursework he needs to pursue his goals “The teachers have given me a much clearer picture of what to expect,” he says. He also values the support from the whole school community. “Whenever I need help, someone is always there to support me and encourage me to do better.”

Living in China has also helped Ethan realise how valuable his bilingual background is. He hopes to use his language skills as a doctor, whether helping English-speaking or Chinese-speaking patients. “It means I can help even more people and build trust with them.”

Ethan’s time in China is about more than academic success. It’s a journey of personal growth and cross-cultural understanding.

At Hiba Academy Nantong, we’re proud to help every pupil build not just knowledge, but also character and confidence as they discover their own potential.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our Hiba Diaries: Pupil Journeys series