Hoyeon
A fond farewell to Hoyeon, our outgoing Senior Grecian, who leaves Christ’s Hospital with a place at Oxford University to read PPE.
Reflecting on his time at CH, Hoyeon says:
‘Being Senior Grecian has been more than I ever imagined. I had looked up to Senior Grecians over the years, but I never dreamt that one day it would be me, enjoying all the remarkable opportunities that come with the role.
Stand out moments and Speech Day
‘There have been many standout moments. Taking part in the school’s visit to St Paul’s Cathedral, marching the whole school through London and delivering a reading were all extraordinary. Another unexpected highlight was a trip to Korea. I offered, half in jest, to accompany the trip as a translator because I had lived there until I was seven. To my surprise, I found myself in Korea, helping to promote the school. It was surreal.
‘Speech Day was a particularly significant occasion. I delivered my oration immediately after the Head Teacher and before the Lord Mayor’s response. I was extremely nervous in the lead-up, but on the day, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I had worked hard and it all came together.
Leadership and responsibility
‘The public-facing events that come with being Senior Grecian are only the tip of the iceberg. The real responsibility lies in leading the Monitor team, a group of 18 students. Although I had held other leadership positions at CH, such as serving on the School Council and as Vice House Captain, it was the first time I had properly led a team. I could not have done it without Abigail, our Second Monitor, and we worked extremely well as a unit. I learnt so much: team management, problem-solving and how to utilise people’s strengths effectively. It has been a valuable experience and I am proud of what we have achieved.
Combining music and academia
‘Music has been central to my life here. I play the violin and saxophone, and I have been part of the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, quartets, Big Band, Concert Band and, for a time, the choir. The Angus Ross Gala Concert was particularly special as I performed Remembrances by John Williams. Big Band solos have also been a personal highlight, but nothing compares to winning the house singing competition, not once but twice, and then again as a Grecian. Encouraging a group of 18-year-old boys to sing A Whole New World is no small feat, but we did it and we had great fun.
‘Balancing my musical commitments with rigorous academic demands taught me about time management and self-discipline. Music gave structure to my day and kept me grounded. Academically, reaching the finals of the Ethics Cup was another memorable achievement. We remained undefeated through to the national final, where we lost on a coin toss. It was a tough loss, but a fantastic experience.
An incredible journey
‘CH has provided me with opportunities I never anticipated, from music to leadership and travel. The variety of experiences, the sense of community and the freedom to try new things have all shaped who I am. I shall miss it all. It has been an incredible journey.’