Difficulty: Summiteer (Level 3)
Many students who scored high in Hong Kong’s university entrance exams had to overcome personal challenges. One student, who is almost completely blind, wants to use his achievement in the Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) examination to become a lawyer to help those in need.
Aiden Cheng Tsz-in has just 10 per cent of his vision left.
Speaking at Wah Yan College, Hong Kong, Aiden said he could not read the writing on a wall across the room, even with thick glasses. The 17-year-old was born with a genetic eye condition. He struggles to read words at a distance without tools or walking up close.
His sight is steadily worsening, and he faces the possibility of complete blindness. But despite these challenges, Aiden achieved the top grade of Level 5** across six subjects, including geography, economics and history, in the DSE.
Four prestigious British universities have extended admission offers to Aiden. But he plans to stay in the city and pursue a double degree in government and law at the University of Hong Kong.
Aiden advised other students preparing for the DSE to keep a notebook for teacher feedback and vocabulary.
