Four years ago, the first batch of students was warmly received at BASIS International School Nanjing (BINJ). These students dedicated themselves to their studies and now, after a period of diligent effort, the BINJ seniors have reached a significant milestone—their graduation. The class of 2023 comprised seven individuals, each possessing distinctive talents, aspirations, and ambitions. These students have not only been accepted into prestigious universities but have also been granted a total of 52 offers, amounting to an impressive sum of US$296,000 in scholarships. On average, each student has received more than seven college offers, underscoring the remarkable achievements of this year’s graduates.
Of the 2023 College Acceptances, BASIS International School Nanjing students’ U.S. applications received offers from Washington University in St. Louis, the University of California Berkeley, the University of Southern California, and other renowned universities. University applications in the UK also proved fruitful as BASIS International School Nanjing received 1 offer from the University of Oxford and 1 offer from Imperial College London. Overall, all students received offers from the Top 50 U.S. Universities, and 71% of students were admitted to the Top 30 U.S. Universities, Top 5 UK Universities, and/or Top 2 Canadian Universities.
Senior Walk
Across the BASIS International School network, unique traditions and celebrations have been established at each campus to mark various occasions throughout the year. This holds true for the special ways in which they pay tribute to and celebrate their graduating seniors. As the Class of 2023 represents the inaugural group of graduates from BASIS International School Nanjing, this momentous occasion is shaping the school’s history and forming new traditions. To commence the senior Grad Walk on June 1st, Head of School Dan Hovland personally selected background music, setting the mood for the event. During the Grad Walk, the graduates strolled amidst the school buildings, receiving blessings from both teachers and fellow students, marking a significant and memorable moment in their academic journey.
Senior Dinner
Another significant tradition that took place was the Senior Dinner, where our graduates were joined by their families. This gathering brought teachers and students together to engage in conversations and celebrate this truly unforgettable and cherished moment. During the dinner, both Head of School Dan Hovland and Vice Head of School Mark Hartley delivered speeches, expressing their heartfelt expectations and best wishes for the inaugural graduating class. Daniel Cui, the student representative, also shared his favorite memories of high school life, adding a personal touch to the occasion. Additionally, two College Admissions Counselors offered their insights. Even after the Senior Dinner ended, students still lingered, and they eagerly took photographs with teachers and classmates, capturing these precious moments to the fullest extent possible.
Graduation Ceremony
The campus was filled with anticipation as the graduation ceremony neared. The event commenced with an impactful introductory video that showcased the highlights of the seniors’ school life, captivating the audience as it played on the grand screen. The school choir then took the stage, delivering a heartfelt rendition of “A Million Dreams,” resonating with the dreams and aspirations of the graduating class.
During the ceremony, touching speeches were delivered by several members of school leadership. Head of School, Dan Hovland, Head of Upper School, Mark Hartley, and Chair of Upper School Science, Dr. Azam Chattha, each took turns addressing the graduates, offering words of wisdom, encouragement, and recognition for their remarkable achievements.
Finally, graduates received their diplomas and in a symbolic gesture, they collectively tossed their caps into the air, signifying the culmination of this chapter of their lives and the beginning of a new journey filled with fresh opportunities, challenges, and triumphs.
“There’s a quote from Joseph Campbell that I love, and admittedly, at the same time it scares me to accept. He said, “The Cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” It’s so true. At BASIS, we’ve encouraged you to be risk-takers and to excel beyond where maybe even you thought possible. You’ve entered many caves already on your learning journey. And the world has more of them ahead for you to “dare to enter”. Embrace the Hero in you and Be the Guide for the other heroes around you.”
“The road that lies ahead after high school will not be easy, there will be challenges and obstacles, however even when you feel like you could not possibly go on any longer – you can. There may be moments when you believe that you are alone and that you have no way of moving forward. But remember, you are never alone in this journey, all of you are venturing out on this journey together. And remember, you have made it through the last years of high school to get where you are, don’t stop now. When reaching your goals in the future it will not be easy, and that does not mean you give up and take the easier option. Push yourself and know you can do it.”
“Dear grade 12 students, despite some hard tasks and sadness, that you have encountered in the course of your studies, at the end of it all of you completed this part of your journey with great success and beautiful memories. Being tough with you at times means we wanted to prepare you for a greater challenge ahead and to nurture you to build a strong foundation for your next level. Under the guidance of your teachers, you have attained this impressive milestone in your life with honor and integrity. Today, we say, we are proud of your many achievements over the years, your accomplishments in all curricular and extracurricular activities.”
To The Class Of 2023 And The Many More To Follow
As we reflect on the remarkable achievement of the first graduation ceremony at BASIS International School Nanjing, we have immense pride for the graduates and their remarkable accomplishments. The Class of 2023 has truly set a high standard for future classes to aspire to, leaving an indelible mark on the school’s history.
With great enthusiasm and anticipation, we eagerly await the many graduations that lie ahead at BASIS International School Nanjing. We are confident that each subsequent class will continue to uphold the values of academic excellence, personal growth, and a commitment to pursuing their dreams.
To the Class of 2023, we extend our heartfelt wishes for success and fulfillment in all their future endeavors. May their time at our school serve as a strong foundation upon which they build a bright and prosperous future. We are honored to have been a part of their educational journey, and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments as they continue to make a positive impact on the world.
Now hiring teachers for the 2023-24 school year! Learn more about career opportunities with BASIS International Schools on our careers website.
