By: Sophia Wang
For the past several months, I was participating in the English Club, helping the seniors practice English. While doing this, I was deeply inspired by how open and eager they were to learn. It showed me that growth and learning truly never stop, no matter how old you are.
It reminded me of the phrase “活到老学到老” — live and learn, even into old age. Watching the seniors embrace this idea made me reflect on myself. As a teenager, I realized I should also keep a curious and open mindset, work hard, and never stop learning.
Their dedication made me think differently about what it means to be a student. It’s not just about attending school or studying for exams — it’s about being engaged, staying humble, and having the courage to keep improving. Many of the seniors had busy lives behind them — they had raised families, worked full careers — and yet, they still came to class every week with notebooks in hand and smiles on their faces, ready to tackle vocabulary and pronunciation. That level of commitment reminded me that learning is not a race with a finish line but a lifelong journey.
In some ways, I felt like I was learning just as much from them as they were from me. I learned patience, empathy, and the value of community. I saw how encouraging words and small victories — like mastering a new phrase or holding a simple conversation — could bring genuine joy and confidence. These experiences deepened my respect for others and strengthened my belief in the power of education.
Moving forward, I hope to carry this mindset into everything I do. Whether I’m in school, volunteering, or later in my career, I want to keep growing, stay open to new ideas, and never take learning for granted. The seniors in the English Club reminded me that no matter your age or background, every day is a new chance to learn something meaningful — and that’s a lesson I’ll never forget.
Website Editor: Sophia Wang
华府青年 CYOC 