Harry Zhang (China) - East Hills Boys High School

Harry Zhang

From: China
School: East Hills Boys High School (2024)
University: Macquarie University
Course: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Harry Zhang was a finalist for the 2025 NSW Government Schools International Student Academic Achievement Award.  He is a NSW Government Schools International Student Ambassador.

Harry's story

In 2022, I began my Year 10 education at East Hills Boys High School in New South Wales. Sydney had always fascinated me —it was one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities I had ever known. The skyline of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge left a deep impression on me. Inspired by its charm, I decided to continue my high school career in Australia.

On my first day at school, everyone was very friendly and enthusiastic. The school assigned a student to give me a tour and explain the differences between my new school and my previous one, which helped me to adapt quickly to my new environment and connect with local students. In the school life, one of the things  I was most looking forward to was the sport time held every Tuesday, when I could enjoy playing table tennis with my friends. We formed a team led by our coach and made our way to the school's table tennis tournament. When it came to the HSC, the support from my teachers was invaluable. My year advisor transformed a section of the library into a study space for Year 12 students and provided past HSC papers for every subject. Thanks to her efforts and the encouragement of my teachers, I achieved my ideal results in the HSC.

Over the past three years, I have not only experienced the beautiful natural landscapes but also embraced Australia's open and multicultural society. I met people from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, religions, and cultures. We shared the experience of living in the same society, and got to know each other's similarities and differences, which made me realise that diversity is what makes a society more dynamic and sustainable.

For students planning to study in NSW government schools, please embrace the experience this place will offer. NSW has an inclusive society where you can find the support you need to achieve your dreams. I encourage you to talk more with the friendly people here, try new things, and pursue knowledge that will become the stepping stone on the way to your goal.