From Rejection to Success: A Parent's Journey with Zen City Foundation

When James Truong first applied to SciTech Campus at Harrisburg High School, his family had high hopes. They knew the rigorous admission process required strong academic performance and English proficiency, but they believed James had the potential to succeed. However, their excitement quickly turned into disappointment upon receiving a rejection letter. The letter stated that James did not meet the minimum requirements to attend the school. This setback was a tough pill to swallow for both James and his parents, but instead of giving up, it ignited a new determination to improve his academic performance and English skills.

Looking back on the nearly four-year journey since their arrival in the U.S., James' mother, Sarah Nguyen, reflects: "I have nothing to be prouder of than the growth in my son's mindset and his academic progress." When the family first moved to the U.S., James had just completed 7th grade in Vietnam. The transition to a new environment, new friends, and a completely different way of life was overwhelming for him. He became disheartened, lost interest in studying, and resisted socializing. Instead, he preferred to stay in his room alone, playing video games. This period of isolation was deeply concerning for his parents, who knew they needed to find a way to help him adjust and thrive in his new home.

Determined to turn things around, James enrolled in Zen City Foundation’s After School program. His parents were committed to finding the best educational support to help him succeed. Through Zen City's structured curriculum, engaging lessons, and supportive teachers, James gradually built his confidence. The interactive activities and personalized guidance played a crucial role in helping him develop both written and spoken communication skills, which had previously been a major hurdle for him.

James' journey was not easy, but he remained persistent. His daily study habits improved, and he dedicated extra time to reading, writing, and speaking practice. With hard work and determination, his grades began to improve significantly. His grade reports over several semesters showed a steady rise in performance, demonstrating his commitment to learning. What once seemed like an insurmountable challenge became an opportunity for growth. His parents noticed the transformation in his communication skills, comprehension, and overall academic performance, which further motivated James to keep pushing forward.

The impact of Zen City Foundation’s program extended beyond academics. James gained confidence in his abilities, allowing him to participate more actively in classroom discussions and extracurricular activities. His teachers also noticed his increased enthusiasm for learning, and his peers began to see him as a capable and determined student.

After months of dedication and perseverance, James decided to reapply to SciTech Campus. This time, the outcome was different. The family was overjoyed to receive an acceptance letter, proving that perseverance and the right educational support can make a world of difference. The rejection that once felt like a major setback had now turned into a stepping stone toward success.

James' story is a testament to the impact of quality After School education and unwavering parental support. His mother shared her thoughts: "Zen City Foundation gave James the confidence he needed to believe in himself. The teachers were patient, and the lessons were engaging. Seeing him thrive now is the greatest reward. We are so grateful for this program."

At Zen City Foundation, we believe that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their starting point. James' journey from rejection to success is just one of many stories that inspire us to continue providing high-quality After School education to students worldwide. Our mission is to empower students with the language skills, academic confidence, and perseverance they need to achieve their dreams.

If you’re looking for a program that truly makes a difference, Zen City Foundation is here to support your child’s journey to success! Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.