Chen, Ou end memorable stay at Agape

Elizabeth Beibei Chen and Owen Yuanzhi Ou ended their memorable stay at Agape Christian School but it also signifies the start of another chapter in their lives. Chen and Ou were part of the 31 students from K5, 8th grade, and 12th grade in ACS’ 9th Commencement and Graduation ceremony held last night at the school’s auditorium.

Chen, who was part of the CNMI MathCourt team that competed in Missouri early this year, said she would forever remember her whole experience at ACS. “Everything here is memorable. This was my second home.”

“I have wonderful teachers that supported me in every step that I take and great classmates who became more than my friends,” added Chen, who finished her senior year with a 4.0 grade point average.

She got accepted to Pensacola Christian College in Florida where she will be taking up nursing. PCC’s nursing program is among the top five in the nation.

“I’m going to take nursing as a stepping stone to medical school. I’m still interested in going to law school, but I’m going to take it one step at a time,” said Chen, who was also accepted to Geneva College in Pennsylvania.

She’s going back to Nanjing, China to visit her family before flying to Pensacola on Sept. 4.

Ow, who was accepted at West Point, said that ACS’ strict rules became his initial training before heading to United States Military Academy.

“The strictness and discipline helped me in my daily life. Following the rules of the school and studying hard so you won’t get failing grades,” said Ou, who was also nominated to attend the Falcon Visitation Program of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado.

“The school’s military type or army style discipline molds you to become a better person. It also prepared me for the tougher training that I would get at West Point. I can adjust easily since there are a lot of rules that you need to follow at Agape,” he added.

“Your shirt must always be tucked in once at school, speaking English is mandatory, and you can’t speak unless spoken too. The teachers are strict but it is for your own good. You need to study hard.”

The now 18-year-old, who has a 3.9 GPA, will also visit his relatives in Guangzhou, China before heading to West Point in New York before the June 27 opening.

Guest speaker Dr. Boaz Boon said that it takes a village to raise a child. “Constant fellowship with partners with common goals. From educational foundation to sustainable godly character, empowered by the Holy Spirit.”

He added that the students’ graduation is only a commencement of their journey ahead. “Now commence your journey of education in God’s perspectives, partnership, and practice.”

ACS president and senior administrator, Rev. Kok Pang, said leaving ACS is not the end of their journey and reminded all students to check God’s word. “When in doubt, check God’s word. You are going to leave us but remember God won’t leave you. Always turn to him and he is just a prayer away.”