MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL Applicant QUESTIONNAIRE

Applicant’s Name
Harris He Applying for Grade G8 in Fall 24

Please complete all sections and use additional paper, if necessary.

What subjects do you like best in school and why?

I'm a big fan of math and science. Both of these subjects provide a structured approach
to finding answers. Math is often considered the starting point for understanding various
concepts, while science generates solutions to real-world problems in our daily lives.
These subjects truly excite me and ignite my curiosity, compelling me to explore more.

Describe the qualities of your favorite teacher.

My favorite teacher is my sixth-grade math teacher. He adeptly elucidates and breaks down every
question that both I and my classmates aren't sure about. He's not only a skilled educator but also a
personable and engaging individual. He often lightens the mood by sharing jokes and hosts enjoyable
activities such as Kahoot, math games, and more. He certainly makes learning much more fun.

Briefly discuss a book you have read in the past year. Tell us why it was impactful to you.
The book 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' had a tremendous effect on me. It's an 1886
Gothic novella written by the Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson. The story revolves around a
lawyer who has a scientist friend, encountering a mysterious man seemingly associated with him.
Although the book didn't impart a direct life lesson, it deeply affected me because I thoroughly
enjoyed reading it, completely transforming my perspective on literature. For a long time, I
considered literature to be boring and tedious. However, this book made me realize that literature can
be fun and engaging, too.
What three words best describe you?

1. friendly 2. calm 3. obedient

What do you feel you can contribute to Tarbut V’Torah?

I believe my friendly nature will aid me in quickly forming friendships. Therefore, whenever my
friends encounter difficulties, academics or other challenges, I'll readily lend them a helping hand.
Furthermore, given my cultural background from a different country, I look forward to sharing my
customs and unique holiday traditions with my classmates, teachers and friends.

Founded in loving memory of Naomi Gelman Weiss

Tarbut V’Torah Community Day School | 5 Federation Way, Irvine CA 92603 | TARBUT.com
Application Questionnaire, page 2 of 3

In what lessons and activities do you participate, both in and out of school?

• Academic (science programs, religious school, travel, etc.)

At our school, there isn't a specific science or math program available. However, outside of school
, I participate in competitions such as the Yau High School Science Award and HiMCM.

• The arts (art, drama, music, etc.)

I take art and music classes at school. This year, I've discovered a heightened interest in art. I found
that I could draw better than I thought, and I receive frequent praise from my teacher for my creativity.
Outside of school, I had been learning the violin for three years as part of my musical hobby.

• Community service and any other co-curricular activities

I haven't take part in any official community service yet, but I my father took me to a remote school
before and I chose books for each students (total 51 students).

• Sports

For sports, I've been involved in swimming and golfing for the past 3 years as extracurricular
activities. Nowadays, I play tennis twice a week. I learn it totally by myself without any
couching. I can even beat my peers who take tennis lessons.

Please list any awards or prizes you have won for either academic or non-academic achievements.

1. Yau High School Science Award

2. High School Mathematical Contest in Modeling
.

Please list the nature and dates of work experience you have had.

I have no work experience.

Founded in loving memory of Naomi Gelman Weiss

Tarbut V’Torah Community Day School | 5 Federation Way, Irvine CA 92603 | TARBUT.com
Application Questionnaire, page 3 of 3

Please tell us anything else you believe would be helpful for the Admissions Committee to know about you.

"When introducing myself, I find it essential to discuss my strengths, weaknesses, and the defining
attributes and qualities that shape me. On one hand, there are my strengths. I possess strong mental
skills, particularly in problem-solving, creativity, and overall critical thinking. I excel in subjects like
mathematics, science, and English, often receiving academic awards for my performance. Notably, I've
earned awards in both science and mathematics. Additionally, I am reliable; for instance, in a debate
competition, I contributed by writing scripts for my team, contributing to our victory.

On the other hand, I also recognize my inclination to be somewhat withdrawn. There was an occasion
when I declined a friend's party invitation because I preferred staying at home, feeling the party wasn't
crucial for me. Another instance where my withdrawal was evident occurred during a group project at
school, where I effectively contributed to the task but hesitated to engage in social activities after its
completion. To address this withdrawal, I'm actively working on initiating more social interactions,
making efforts to join group activities, and attending social gatherings that I may have avoided before.

Another challenge I face is time management. Sometimes, I struggle to keep track of my tasks and
schedules effectively, which can lead to missed deadlines or forgetfulness. To address this, I'm
committed to better organizing by diligently using planners, calendars, or setting reminders on my phone
. However, I am aware of areas that require improvement and actively seek to enhance my planning and
organizational skills."

Applicant’s Signature Date

Please send this recommendation via mail, fax or email to:

Tarbut V’Torah Community Day School
Admissions Office
5 Federation Way, Irvine, CA 92603
Phone (949) 509-9500 • Fax (949) 509-7866
admissions@tarbut.com

Founded in loving memory of Naomi Gelman Weiss

Tarbut V’Torah Community Day School | 5 Federation Way, Irvine CA 92603 | TARBUT.com