Since the establishment of Longmen Academy in 1865, the spirit of SHSID has become deeply embedded in the Chinese story. The dreams of countless generations of students departed from here, with the SHSID virtues of fortitude and diligence embodied in their youthful figures. They grow to become the core pillars of society.

During the Summer Break, outstanding alumni from PA interviews, along with PA journalists, with full gratitude and devotion, offer the most sincere wishes for their alma mater——

Happy 160th Anniversary to Shanghai High School!

01.Li Lingzhi

SHSID is one of the important starting-sites of my growth. When I first came from a local school, I felt stressed by the English teaching environment and the open-ended teaching style. I doubted if I was suitable for this school. But soon, I was touched by the patience of the teachers, the depth of the courses, and the sincerity of my fellow classmates. From the ammonia water in the chemistry lab to the performances at the art festival, speeches in the auditorium to the relay races on the fields, every bit constitutes the most vivid memory of my student days.

Although my academic path later extended to Cambridge, MIT, and Harvard, I always remembered that it was at SHSID where I first thought beyond borders, expressed opinions, and organized activities. And it was there where I first realized that growth meant to endless expand the boundaries of knowledge.

On the 160th anniversary of my alma mater, I sincerely wish that SHSID will continue to adhere to its original principle of educating people in the new era and encourage students to explore themselves and embrace the world. Fortunately, my story began here!

02. Duan Yang

I still vividly remember my first day at SHSID — everything felt new, exciting, and full of promise. Throughout my time here, I not only grew academically but also learned to appreciate and embrace different cultures in SHSID’s truly diverse environment. From classrooms to the basketball court, every moment became part of a meaningful journey of personal growth.

One of my most unforgettable experiences was serving as captain of the varsity basketball team, leading us through the Nike and Jr. NBA championship tournaments. Those moments didn’t just sharpen my leadership and teamwork skills — they also showed me the strength of our community and the unwavering support of the Stallions family.

As I look back on my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences, friendships, and lessons that have shaped who I am today. SHSID is more than just a school — it’s a community that fosters curiosity, resilience, and a global mindset. On its 160th anniversary, my hope is that SHSID continues to be a place where young minds are challenged, inspired, and empowered to make a difference in the world.

03. Zhang Zhiyu

On the afternoon of graduation, I stood alone outside the classroom. The straight corridor stretched empty before me, and a sudden, subtle sense of vacancy swept through my heart, allowing memories to seep in quietly. This place had once been so familiar, voices rising and falling, weaving like the soft murmurs of a lingering rainy season. Slowly, the echoes receded, leaving the hallway profoundly quiet. At the far end, figures draped in black gowns moved forward, golden tassels swaying gently, catching sunlight in the threads. They carried with them the scent of tomorrow, and tomorrows beyond. Eventually, school buses set out from the parking lot, their wheels tracing crisscrossed lines upon the ground, pushing us toward our separate roads. Through the windows stood forests of fir trees, sunlight still slipping tenderly through branches, carrying a gentle peace.

Do not grieve because of goodbyes — for only through farewells can we greet again. Whether our goodbyes are brief or long, friends will always reunite someday. For now, let's keep our blessings upon our collars. Remember those friendships that once felt inseparable, companions who shared every walk to and from school. Thanks to those joyous sunsets spent laughing and chatting together; thanks to every drop of warmth, guiding us to wisdom and understanding; thanks to the flowing stream of time, for growth that arrived quietly yet swiftly, and thanks to life itself for its relentless curiosity.

Above all, how can I express my deepest gratitude to you? When I stepped toward you, reaching only for a wisp of cloud, you gave me the entire expanse of the sky.

04. Chen Ruoxi

This year, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. As my alma mater, Shanghai High School, celebrates its 160th anniversary, I’d like to take this opportunity—though miles away—to express my heartfelt gratitude and best wishes.

Shanghai High School provided me with an exceptional environment to learn and grow. With outstanding teachers, diverse curricula, abundant extracurricular opportunities, and strong support for university applications, the school truly shaped who I am today. Here, I not only gained knowledge but also had the chance to explore my interests and talents. The school values every student’s individuality and potential, and I’m especially grateful for the guidance and encouragement I received from so many dedicated teachers along the way.

Since graduating, I’ve returned to visit the school several times, and each time, I’m amazed by the changes. From brand-new academic buildings to a modern skating rink and upgraded sports facilities—these improvements reflect the school’s commitment to progress. Although I didn’t get to experience the latest developments myself, seeing SHS and SHSID thrive and grow fills me with pride and joy.

I sincerely wish Shanghai High School continued excellence and flourishing achievements. To the younger students—cherish your time here, chase your dreams, and make the most of every opportunity. May you write your own unforgettable chapters of youth, while also adding new brilliance to the legacy of our beloved school.

Happy 160th anniversary, SHS!

05. Xie Aisi

The ginkgo trees at Shanghai High School is my favorite among all.

In my first year, when I was still a transfer student full of curiosity and nervousness, I liked to sit alone in an empty classroom, gazing out the window. Golden leaves scattered sparsely, the ground is filled with autumn colors. I would always walk slowly under the ginkgo trees, hoping to explore everything around it.

For my second year, I loved to take photos with my friends beneath the ginkgo that stands by the dining hall entrance. Our rustling laughter would drown out the soft thud of falling leaves. If I have to make a metaphor, I would say ginkgo is just like time: before you notice, the campus is already paved with gold.

In a sudden, I’ve stepped into my third year. During class, I would rest my head on the desk. Sunlight would slip through the gap between my arms, fall below my lashes, and I could see the glided edges of ginkgo leaves. From where I sat, I would think sunlight light originated from those golden trees. Whenever I feel lost, watching leaves drift down would bring me a sense of calmness and reassurance. Then, the carpet of ginkgo leaves would vanish without warning. The time when I notice its absence, the branches would have already been barren, and winter would have arrived.

Now I approach my fourth year at Shanghai high school. What other stories will these ginkgos witness? What I know is that, whenever I see ginkgo, I would think of my school. Maybe Shanghai High School itself is like the ginkgo. It changes throughout time, yet exists across countless instants;  It grows alongside me, yet gives me space to explore alone;  It’s vivid, but also leaves a quiet sorrow when it’s time to say goodbye. We could nap in its shade, laugh beneath it, and sometimes even get caught off-guard by rain shaken from its boughs.

Someday, on some street corner, I’ll  probably see ginkgo again. I’ll marvel at how joyful and memorable those four years were, and be astonished by how lush the present tree is.  It’ll keep standing there by the road, silent. Passersby will pause under it,  murmuring about time’s haste, about how brilliantly it blooms, and how abundantly it lives.