As the junior students approached the official week of Global Citizens’ Day (GCD), visible excitement filled the halls. Students always all look forward to this activity-packed, three-day trip to Chongming Island.

Day 1

On March 29th, the morning of departure, students gathered, suitcases in hand, clad in a GCD-themed jacket. With clear skies and a clear destination, the GCD buses set out for Qianwei Farm and Agricultural Experience Center. The ride was chill and restful, rejuvenating students for the big event ahead.

After students settled down in their dorms, they gathered at the outdoor stage for the opening ceremony. Director Liu and Mr. Hong Miao, the Head of G11, took turns wishing every student success at making lasting memories. Coaches planned multiple interesting activities to let students experience the wonderful nature around them.

The students spent the afternoon working in the fields. One group of students formed a bamboo shoot digging team and ventured to the bamboo forest. Although the slope was very difficult to stand on, the students persisted, slowly discovering the essence of bamboo shoot unearthing. The other group of students helped cultivate the land for planting scallion and cabbage. Shovel and hoe in hand, students tilled the land by loosening moist topsoil in order to create a canal system. Occasionally, a friendly frog would appear and some would engage in the playing of “catch the frog.” This farming session made students realize the essence of being a Global Citizen—embracing the world with love for nature and all kinds of people.

During the GCD class video presentations, all students appreciated the superb cinematography, acting of each class, and the unique themes. The auditorium was filled with cheers, drawing to an end the unforgettable evening.

Day 2

As students returned to the Qianwei camp base with bountiful bags of produce, they gathered around the outdoor stove tops. In the following hours of cooking and preparation, students exhibited great cooperation. All of them were delegated different roles and showed willingness to help. Some unpacked the vegetables for a cold rinse, some got out cutting boards and did knife work, and others humbly stood over the wood smoke, supplementing firewood to keep the stove fire going. Despite the smoke and sweat, the sweet aroma of each dish brought much overriding joy. The cooking process was not without challenges; it taught the students to stay calm and be flexible when diffusing cooking crises. But beyond this, this experience also taught students to appreciate those who prepare their everyday meals that they often take for granted.

The activities of the second day were mainly divided into two parts. In the morning, students participated in directional activities. Students traveled in groups, shuffling between sporting courts and meadows to complete all nine competitive events. The Jiuqu Bridge sketching activity tested students’ artistic skills and patience to reproduce a river scene, urging students to capture the small details and beauty within nature. Students then headed to the open prarie for Frisbee and archery activities, flying disks and arrows in full style. The LNT scavenger hunt not only improved physical fitness but also exercised students’ teamwork and judgment. Students mastered the basic qualities of being world citizens like team collaboration and persistence.

Followed by twilight, students gathered at the opening space on the field again. Hand in hand, students chanted popular songs while circling the rising fire. Students with performances released their voices on the stage and performed wholeheartedly. At that moment, students with different cultural backgrounds all joined in this cheerful event.

Day 3

The morning activity of knitting straw rope allowed students to practice their craftsmanship. Throughout the activity, students experienced the ancient lifestyle and acquired the knowledge of their ancestors. Students utilized the ropes they had just made to conduct activities like jump rope. Once again, the delightful atmosphere filled the room.

The three-day trip finally came to an end. During the past few days, students left marks of joy and laughter in every corner of this island. Wandering through the fields and traveling in the wind and rain, students absorbed the wild nature in awe. After a series of fruitful activities, students understood the responsibilities of being eco-friendly citizens. On their way back, students could not help but linger at the site. Pictures and videos are evidence that a group of enthusiastic and passionate students was once here.

(Written by 11(5) Lianna Pam, 11(1) Celeste Gao, 11(10) Feifei Xiao, 11(5) Eileen Liu Pictures by SHSID Media Group Edited by 11(5) Elizabeth Xu Supervised by Yueer Gao Reviewed by Qian Zuo)