New International Students Discover Boston

10/22/2025

Masters’ newest international boarding students, hailing from Spain, Korea, Poland and beyond, embarked on their first off-campus adventure during the annual fall trip to Boston.

Abdoulaye Ngom, dean of global studies and upper school languages teacher, and Penny Peng, associate dean of global studies and upper school Mandarin teacher, accompanied the 25 students as they spent time exploring Boston’s historic landmarks, including the USS Constitution, Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Old South Meeting House and Faneuil Hall.

Peng said the group enjoyed “the opportunity to explore the rich history of Boston and bond in a different environment. It was a refreshing break from their routine campus life, while still allowing them to stay connected with one another.”

For ninth grader Matthew Liang, who is from China, breaking bread with new friends over delicious Cantonese food was a highlight. “I really enjoyed Chinatown in Boston,” he said. “Especially the shao la, which is basically a dish where you put different types of meat together and use special ways to cook it.”

Fellow ninth grader Daniel Luo, also from China, enjoyed learning about the American Revolution and other key moments in U.S. history. He also praised the “great food, great hotel” and described Boston’s atmosphere as “really peaceful and harmonious.”

Peng noted, “The students enjoyed bonding with each other during the bus ride, in the hotel and while walking around the city.”

Henry Zhang ’29, also from China, agreed. “The trip is definitely a great opportunity to meet with people that you don't know and with international students that you haven't met yet.”

Zhang added, “I think this trip gives us a sense of community because that's one of the core values of Masters. As seven-day boarders, we live here almost all year long, and it's important to know who's around you and to make friends and meaningful connections.”