Top scholar and Head Boy Harry Liu has come a long way since stepping through the gates of our Junior Campus eight years ago. Once a shy and apprehensive ten-year-old, he’s now a confident responsible young man, poised for a very bright future. We talk to Harry about his time at Dilworth, and the powerful role it has played in his transformation.
Harry what originally brought you to Dilworth?
My family consists of me and my mum, although more recently my grandmother has come to live with us. Raising me as a single parent wasn’t easy for mum. We struggled a lot financially and moved house often. A family friend suggested we apply for Dilworth as a way to give me a quality education and opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have, as well as give mum a chance to get on her feet.
How was the transition from home to boarding house?Tough at first! I was very much a mother’s boy and experienced more homesickness than most. I missed mum a lot, but as time goes on you realise it’s not so bad.
What have been some of the highlights?
Dilworth brought out a lot of the characteristics and values that I hold dear now. I have a brotherhood of boys who I can rely on for life and I’ve enjoyed so many experiences I would never otherwise have had, like rock climbing, sea kayaking and tramping the Pinnacles. Being appointed head of Armagh House in Year 12 was another highlight – it was a real vote of confidence, pushed me out of my comfort zone and laid strong foundations for this year.
What does the Head Boy role mean to you?
There’s a lot of responsibility and pressure but it’s also a great privilege and honour. If you’d told me in Year 5 where I’d be now, I would never have believed you. Dilworth has given me so many amazing opportunities to grow and learn and I feel incredibly lucky to finish my time here as head of school. I truly doubt I would have achieved this at any other school, I just don’t think anywhere else would have been able to draw that out of me.
Dilworth aspires to empower its students – and also its students’ families. Has this been the case for you? One hundred percent! When I came to Dilworth it enabled my mum to regain her footing. Not only did it take away the financial pressure by providing absolutely everything I needed, but it also gave her the time to build her career. Mum has gone from being a part-time cashier at Royal Oak’s Umiya Sushi, to owning 60% of the business. Having that financial stability has been transformational for both of us.
What are your plans for the future?
Next year I want to study medical health sciences at the University of Auckland as I’m hoping to eventually pursue a career as a surgeon or anaesthetist. Dilworth has taught me to aim high!