An International Perspective: Michael Zhao’s Journey from China to St. Joes

For Senior Cadet, Michael Zhao, coming from Beijing to St. Joes wasn’t just about crossing continents; it was about venturing into a new culture, embracing challenges, and grabbing hold of his own future. Before arriving in August 2023 for his junior year at St. Joes, Michael attended an international school in China and was no stranger to the pressures of academic achievement. However, his decision to continue his education in the United States stemmed from a desire to push himself further in a challenging academic environment. He saw this journey as an opportunity to grow, enhance his college prospects, and better prepare for his future.

The transition from China to the U.S. was undoubtedly a significant shift. “In China, the academic environment was more relaxed,” Michael reflects. “But in the U.S., the focus on your junior and senior years is intense, and you’re expected to set your own goals.” This self-directed atmosphere was a welcome change for Michael, who appreciated the independence that comes with pursuing personal achievements rather than meeting traditional expectations. 

Of all his options for high school, choosing St. Joes was an intentional decision for Michael. “I wanted to start fresh in a place where I could be surrounded by people who shared a sense of community and faith,” he explains. Although Michael doesn’t personally practice religion, he values the way St. Joes’ foundation of faith fosters kindness and strong moral character in the people around him. “People with strong beliefs are often the most welcoming.”

Michael quickly established himself both academically and socially at St. Joes, finding a welcoming community among Cadets who embodied the kindness and strong character for which he had hoped. His peers admire his academic talent and sharp sense of humor, recognizing him as a natural leader who leaves a lasting impression in every classroom. In group settings, he confidently takes the lead, guiding his classmates through complex projects with insight and initiative. Beyond the classroom, Michael was an active member of the Tennis Team before shifting his focus to his rigorous academic commitments. He has also distinguished himself as a Teaching Assistant in the Computer Science class taught by Milestone C, where he assisted in developing assessments and mentoring students through website-building projects. 

Beyond academics, Michael possesses a steadfast ambition to become an entrepreneur. Inspired by his father’s success in the music industry, Michael envisions launching his own ventures, potentially in the fields of electronic materials—critical components in robotics and artificial intelligence. While entrepreneurship often involves risk, Michael embraces challenges with confidence and determination. Coming from a family of innovators and trailblazers, he is driven to make a lasting impact and carve out his own path in the world of technology and business.

Michael comes from a family of risk-takers - ones who also have a deeply musical lineage. Both of his parents were musicians before his father transitioned into entrepreneurship, while his mother remains a distinguished Professor of Music in Beijing. His grandfather was a leading figure in his generation’s classical music scene in China, further cementing the family’s rich musical legacy.

Michael, himself, is a talented pianist and guitarist, carrying forward his family’s passion for music. At St. Joes, he shares his gift by playing piano for Music Ministry. One of his most memorable moments in high school came during a school-wide Christmas Mass. “I asked Mr. Weiss if I could add a little improvisation to our final song, and he told me to ‘go for it!’ Just as the song was ending, I incorporated a bit of Jingle Bells, and the entire student body loved it.”

Despite the challenges of living far from home, Michael embraces the opportunity to learn and grow in the U.S., and his resilience is evident in his perspective on being an international student. “There are so many different faces, different religions, different looks, different colors, and it’s not always easy to adjust. But what I have learned here is that if you treat people like friends, they will treat you like a friend in return.” Michael encourages fellow international students to immerse themselves fully in their new environments and embrace cultural differences.

Looking to the future, Michael plans to apply to several colleges in the Northeast - his favorite being Babson College - as well as a few in California with the hopes of being an Entrepreneurship major. His passion for innovation and desire to make an impact in the world is evident in everything he does. Yet, regardless of where he ends up, his ties to home will always remain strong. “If there are opportunities for me in the U.S., then of course I will stay, but eventually I will return to China because my family and friends are there. I have to be with them.”

As Michael continues his journey at St. Joes, with just a few months to go until he crosses that graduation stage, his story reminds us of the power of embracing new experiences, overcoming challenges, and staying true to one’s roots. His journey - and the journey of all international students - from Beijing to Trumbull is more than just a change of location; it is a testament to the strength, bravery, and resilience of a young man who is destined to make a lasting impact in the world.