ACT National Youth English Show Winner Visits Harvard University

Zhang Ziheng

A physically challenged student from China has shown what determination and hard work can do toward accomplishing goals.

Zhang “Tony” Ziheng, 12, a student from Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, recently realized a dream he has had for a long time: visiting Harvard University, where he hopes to someday be a student.

This past summer, Ziheng won the grand prize for grades four to six at the 2009 ACT National Youth English Communication Show, which is held annually in Beijing and Shanghai. The national competition offers the opportunity for Chinese students to display their English speaking and comprehension skills. Several thousand students from all across China compete each year.

Ziheng placed second in this competition in 2008 and vowed that he would work hard to do better this year. And he did.

When he won the championship this year, Ziheng stated that he had a dream of visiting Harvard. Richard L. Ferguson, ACT CEO and chairman of the board, contacted Harvard on Ziheng’s behalf, and a campus tour and meeting with the university marshal was arranged.

Zhang “Tony” Ziheng signs the Harvard guest book as his mother, Qiongfang Tang (left), University Marshal Jackie O’Neill (center), and Senator Qinglin Pan look on. Ziheng wrote: “Harvard University is one of the best universities in the world. I will work harder and study in Harvard in the future to show thanks to everyone who has helped me!”

Ziheng, with the help of his parents, has been preparing for college since he was very young. “My father began to teach me Chinese literature and English before I could even speak. Before I was two, I already knew more than 2,000 English words.”

Ziheng battles some physical limitations. He suffers from a leg disease and often has to use a wheelchair.

“My teachers sometimes don’t let me take part in competitions because of my handicap,” he said. “My mother told me I must study harder so I have the ability to confront more competitions in the future. She helped change my mindset.”

Ziheng said he appreciates ACT. “I am very grateful to ACT for organizing the contest, which has provided me with the motivation, courage, and strength to face challenges in the future. I will study harder and never give up.”