Good News from “White Egret Cup” Competition

We are excited to share that Emmy Chen, a bright and talented Grade 8 student, has just won the first prize in the "White Egret Cup" Competition on March 26th. What's even more impressive is that this is the second time Emmy has excelled in this competition! We're delighted to sit down with her today to hear all about her journey, her inspirations, and her advice for other students who might want to follow in her footsteps.

1. Introduction:

Ms Ling: How did you first hear about the "White Egret Cup" competition?

Emmy: I first knew about the competition from the posters sent by the English department in our class group chat. I decided to participate in the competition for the first time after Ms. Ling encouraged me to sign up.

2. Competition Experience:

Ms Ling: What inspired you to participate in the "White Egret Cup" competition for the second time?

Emmy: I found the first time participating in the competition very fun and challenging, so I wanted to try again. Also, I got second prize for the first time so I wanted to strive towards a larger goal and get a higher prize the second time I participated.

Ms Ling: What was your Chinese culture story about this year, and why did you choose this particular story?

Emmy: My Chinese culture story is about the celebration of the Dragon Boat Festival. I chose this particular story because it is one of my favorite traditional Chinese festivals and it is coming up very soon.

Ms Ling: How does it feel to compete as an FDIS student?

Emmy: To compete as an FDIS student, I feel very proud and confident by embracing our FDIS values, and also by remembering the determination and resilience all of us showcased in this school year.

3. Achievements and Reflections:

Ms Ling: How did you feel when you found out you won the first prize?

Emmy: I was lit with a feeling of anticipation and to be honest, I was a bit nervous. I also felt a genuine joy that my hard work has paid off at last.

Ms Ling: How has participating in the competition helped you improve your English skills and your understanding of Chinese culture?

Emmy: Participating in the competition allowed me to have a better grasp of presentation skills as well as an intimacy with the English language. I also had more thorough and diverse understanding about traditional Chinese culture as well as its cultural values.

4. Advice and Encouragement:

Ms Ling: What advice would you give to other students who are considering participating in the "White Egret Cup" competition?

Emmy: My advice would be: first, love the story you are telling, and actually feel the story and immerse yourself in it. Second, don’t put pressure on yourself, remember that competition is just a fun challenge. Last but not least, have fun and enjoy the process!

Ms Ling: How do you think participating in such competitions can benefit students academically and personally?

Emmy: I think participating in such competitions is an excellent opportunity to learn about different cultures and gain a more open-minded attitude towards others. Also, it is a great chance to get acquainted with more people and get advice from and communicate with others.

5. Future Aspirations:

Ms Ling: Do you plan to participate in the competition again next year? Why or why not?

Emmy: Yes! I want to participate in the competition again next year, because I enjoy the experience very much. It is very eye-opening and allows me to immerse myself in traditional Chinese culture, which is very captivating.

Ms Ling: What are your future goals related to English and sharing Chinese culture?

Emmy: I aspire to encourage more friends, schoolmates and people in general to learn about Chinese culture. I want to tell Chinese stories, introduce Chinese culture to my foreign friends who might not be so familiar with it and encourage others to share Chinese culture in return with more and more people.

6. Personal Insights:

Ms Ling: Can you share any memorable moments or highlights from this year’s competition?

Emmy: A highlight from this year’s competition is when at the end of the competition, one of the judges-teachers made a presentation. She said I am one of the participants this year who left a deep impression on her, because I asked a question in the beginning and did not leave time for the audience to answer. She suggested me as well as all the other students to have more appropriate pausing in our storytelling and leave space for interactions with the audiences.

Ms Ling: Who has been your biggest supporter throughout your journey, and how have they helped you?

Emmy: My biggest supporters are definitely my family, especially my mom, and Ms. Ling. My family had always supported, encouraged and inspired me throughout the process of preparing for and participating in the competition. Thanks to my mom who has practiced with me for many, many times and accompanied me to the competition and always motivated and cheered up me. Also, my greatest love and gratitude towards Ms. Ling who has given me so many amazing suggestions and warm, inspiring words as well as loving accompaniment the whole time. Thank you! I could not have done this without you!

7. Closing Thoughts:

Ms Ling: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers about your experience or the importance of sharing Chinese culture in English?

Emmy: The White Egrets Cup is a great opportunity to learn about traditional Chinese culture. Getting acquainted with Chinese culture is an important and mandatory step towards becoming a fully qualified citizen in this internationalizing world.