YCIS Shanghai Year 10 student explains how sport sharpens study focus. Learn about the 2026-27 scholarship (open year-round) and book an Open Day.
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By Ned Kelly
If there is one word people associate with Yew Chung International School Year 10 student Himeri, it is ‘sport.’
Over the years she has taken part in eight different sports— including jiu-jitsu, volleyball, soccer, swimming, and triathlon—earned a black belt in judo, and become part of the school's ultimate frisbee team.
Yet, she asserts, students don't need to choose between sports and academics.
We caught up with her to discuss that balance— exploring how sport and study feed each other, what sportsmanship means to her, how YCIS has encouraged her to explore interests beyond athletics, and how charity work has shaped her sense of what success means.
On the sport-study balance…
Some parents may say that doing intense sports will limit my study time, but for me, doing intense sports is a way to reset my mind, and the limit I am given makes me focus better and use my time effectively for my studies.
If I don't do intense sports, even if I have more time, I might use this extra time to relax and do nothing—not necessarily study—and this is just a waste of time.
On training not being a sacrifice…
Even though my schedule is built around training, I don't think I have narrowed my options.
My parents always encourage me to explore new things, and they also feel free to talk about my passion.
On those passions being a family affair…
My parents always enjoy it with me. I also enjoy what my parents and sisters do.
We laugh together, cry together, and enjoy together.
On staying steady and grounded…
My moments with my friends, learning new techniques from coaches, and myself enjoying the sports—over the years, those small things build up, and make you feel very passionate about sport.
On sportsmanship over winning…
One famous jiu-jitsu black belt once said, "Losing is not the end of the world; it just simply means that your opponent is better than you. The important thing is to enjoy, learn, and improve from the game."
Sport is not a temporary event. Sport is a life-long event.
On the days it gets exhausting…
Of course, there are days that make me feel physically exhausted, but I don't think that exhaustion has to make me choose one or the other.
It's about the balance.
On the pressure to appear well-rounded…
This maybe an issue for some students. But for me, I don't have that pressure because enjoyment of everything comes first.
On studying human biology and taking up public speaking…
My curiosity made me want to step outside of my comfort zone. I like to experience new things and try everything.
Doing sports helps me manage my stress, making me focus and use my time effectively for my academics.
On her charity initiative work…
Volunteering, for me, is not about success; it is about sharing our hearts with others and paying back what we were given.
On advice to younger athletic academics…
Grasp every single opportunity you are given, because you never know when an opportunity will change your life forever.
Just enjoy everything.
YCIS Scholarship Programme
Himeri won a 2026-27 scholarship at YCIS.
YCIS welcomes applications for its scholarship programme from students with strong academic performance or outstanding talents in a wide range of areas.
Scholarships for external applicants are open for applications all year round.
Open Days
YCIS Shanghai is more than just a place for academic learning—it’s where future global citizens are nurtured.
During an Open Day, you’ll explore their state-of-the-art facilities, from cutting-edge science labs to art studios and performance spaces, all designed to support students' holistic development.
A key feature of YCIS Open Days is the opportunity to engage directly with the School Leadership Team (SLT) and teachers.
You’ll gain insights into the YCIS curriculum and teaching methodologies, learn how they foster academic excellence and creativity, and discover how they prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.
The admissions team will also be on-site to answer any questions about the application process, admission criteria, or school fees, ensuring you leave with a clear understanding of how YCIS Shanghai could be the right fit for your child.
To book your place, email [email protected], call 021 2226 7666.
Addresses
YCIS Shanghai Puxi Ronghua Campus
ECE Years 2-6 (ages 2-6)
59 West Ronghua Avenue, Puxi
上海市长宁区荣华西道59号
YCIS Shanghai Puxi Hongqiao Campus
Primary Years 2-6 (ages 6-11)
11 Shuicheng Road, Puxi
上海市长宁区水城路11号
YCIS Shanghai Puxi Gubei Campus
Secondary Years 7-13 (ages 11-18)
18 West Ronghua Avenue, Puxi
上海市长宁区荣华西道18号
YCIS Shanghai Pudong Regency Park Campus
Kindergarten 2 to Primary Year 4 (ages 2-9)
1817 Huamu Road, Pudong
上海市浦东新区花木路1817号
YCIS Shanghai Pudong Century Park Campus
Primary Year 5 to Secondary Year 13 (ages 9-18)
1433 Dongxiu Road, Pudong
上海市浦东新区东绣路1433号
YCIS Shanghai Lingang Campus
Kindergarten 2 to Primary Year 6 (ages 2-11)
No.1 Yinlian Road, Nanhui New Town
上海市浦东新区临港新城银莲路1号
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