Unlocking Multiple Roles: How Harry Wu, an Introvert, Found His Voice at Hankai International High School
“At Hankai, I unlocked a different version of myself. I became a speaker, a director, a musician, a leader—and most importantly, someone who isn’t afraid to be seen.” — Harry Wu, Class of 2025
🌱 From Shy Child to Confident Leader
“I used to be afraid of speaking up,” Harry recalls. “I feared making mistakes, being laughed at, or simply standing out.”
But everything changed in 2019, when Harry joined Hankai. Inspired by a community that values expression and individuality, he learned that voicing his thoughts was a way to connect, not a reason to fear judgment.
From fierce classroom debates in Global Perspectives to hosting school events and multicultural speeches, Harry gradually stepped into the spotlight—and started enjoying it.
🎓 Academic Excellence and University Offers
Harry’s journey of self-discovery didn’t stop at activities. His dedication to growth and perseverance in learning paid off with offers from some of the world’s top universities:
- University College London (UCL) – QS Global Rank #9
- University of Toronto – QS Global Rank #25
- University of Edinburgh – QS Global Rank #27
- University of Manchester – QS Global Rank #34
- University of British Columbia – Top Canadian University
👑 Leading RA House to Victory
In 2021, Harry became the Head of RA House, leading a 60-member student team. At first, he struggled with doubt. But inspired by his advisor Nicole’s words—“Use your youth to do something meaningful. High school is short. Don’t leave regrets.”—he embraced leadership with full force.
He coordinated deputies, planned activities, and led meetings with teachers and fellow leaders. Under his leadership, RA House won the House Cup twice. These experiences shaped his core strengths in teamwork, discipline, and event planning.
🎭 Curtain Call: From Director to Actor
2023 was a turning point. Harry co-directed and starred in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Hankai’s Winter Production. Balancing both director and lead actor roles wasn’t easy—especially during disruptions caused by COVID outbreaks.
But the production was a triumph. With sold-out tickets and a standing ovation, Harry called the experience “a milestone of trust, challenge, and self-transformation.”
🎵 The Music Never Stops
Outside of theater, Harry is also a passionate musician. He performed with school bands, covering indie hits like “Tank” and “Bed” by No Party For Cao Dong, and made it to the finals of the 2023 Nanjing International School Band Battle.
He even co-wrote and performed an original song during the end-of-term celebration. For the school’s Talent Show, he led a team in remaking Khalil Fong’s “BB88” as an MV.
“Sharing music makes me feel alive,” Harry says. “I know I’ll never regret this part of my youth.”
📚 Academic Growth and Resilience
Though naturally more drawn to the arts, Harry faced his biggest challenge with science. In the IGCSE stage, mandatory Math and Physics courses nearly drained his motivation.
But instead of giving up, Harry tackled the fear head-on—booking regular one-on-one tutoring sessions, keeping detailed notes, and identifying his learning pitfalls. The result?
- IGCSE Math: A*
- AS-Level Math & Physics: A
Later, he chose to focus on Economics and History—subjects that combine critical thinking and real-world impact. With structured notes, themed quote banks, and graded memory techniques, he transformed complex readings into manageable goals.
🏅 John Locke Essay & Global Awards
Harry’s dedication bore fruit in 2023 when he earned a High Commendation (Top 5%) in the prestigious John Locke Essay Competition. He also led his team to 1st place in the Oxford Summer School’s Capital Investment Simulation.
✈️ IELTS and the Road Abroad
Harry achieved a 7.5 in the IELTS in just one winter break, balancing test prep with self-discipline. His strategy? Practice one test a day, record and analyze speaking responses, and reflect on mistakes instead of rushing through exercises.
“Efficiency matters more than volume,” he shares.
❤️ Reflections from Friends and Family
Harry’s journey deeply moved those around him.
Polaris, a close friend, says:
“At first he seemed hard to approach—but Harry is sincere, funny, and unfiltered. Every project with him is full of creativity and honesty.”
Joker, his long-time classmate, reflects:
“Harry is reliable, sharp, and resilient. He’s the kind of leader who disarms challenges with calm and grace—whether it’s organizing events or transforming ideas into action.”
And from his parents:
“Watching you grow over six years has filled us with joy and pride. As you step into this new chapter abroad, be kind, be brave, and let the world see the brilliance of a Hankai student.”
“Whether it was the friends I made, the subjects I chose, or the roles I played—none of it was easy. But I’ve never once regretted coming to Hankai. This school gave me the courage to become who I truly am.”