Hanbridge Institute is proud to share another success story. Our 2015 AEIS graduate, Charis Zeng Ruiyi, has achieved remarkable milestones — from starting her education journey at a neighbourhood secondary school in Singapore, to excelling at Raffles Institution, pursuing her degree at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School, and ultimately securing a full-time role at Goldman Sachs. Her story shows how determination, wise decisions, and resilience can open doors to global opportunities.
From Preparation to Success – Passing AEIS in Three Months
In 2015, before she was about to enter Grade 9 in China, Charis and her family decided to pursue education in Singapore. With guidance from Hanbridge Institute teachers, she prepared intensively for just three months during the summer break and successfully cleared the AEIS (Admissions Exercise for International Students). She was then admitted into Bartley Secondary School, a neighbourhood school in Singapore.
While some may underestimate neighbourhood schools, Charis found teachers who were supportive and always willing to help. She learned to ask questions actively, strengthen her foundation, and embrace the belief often repeated in Singapore’s education system: “Every school is a good school.”
From Neighbourhood School to Raffles Institution
Through hard work and perseverance, Charis achieved outstanding “O-Level” results and was admitted to Raffles Institution, one of Singapore’s top junior colleges. Despite the competitive environment, she stood firm in her belief that success ultimately depends not on the school’s name, but on one’s effort and choices.
University and Beyond – NUS to Goldman Sachs
After graduating from Raffles, Charis pursued her degree at NUS Business School. She actively joined finance clubs, case competitions, and networking opportunities to strengthen her skills. In 2024, she earned an internship at Goldman Sachs, where her performance was so outstanding that she received a return offer even before graduation. Upon completing her studies, she will join Goldman Sachs full-time, realizing her dream of a career in global finance.
“Don’t be afraid of starting from a neighbourhood school. Don’t rush the process. As long as you stay grounded and work hard step by step, you will eventually reach where you want to be.” — Charis Zeng Ruiyi
Message to Future AEIS Students
When Charis returned to Hanbridge to meet current AEIS students, she reminded them that every stage — from secondary school to junior college, to university, and finally to career — builds upon the foundation laid in the early years. Her achievements are not luck, but the result of clear goals, discipline, and seizing every opportunity.
From starting at Hanbridge Institute, she has stepped onto the global stage — proof that with the right guidance and determination, international students can thrive in Singapore’s education system.
About Hanbridge Institute
Founded in 2003, Hanbridge Institute is a trusted private education institution in Singapore, registered with the Committee for Private Education and EduTrust-certified. The school offers a wide range of programmes including AEIS preparatory courses, O-Level courses, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, teacher training, and study tours. With its convenient location near Sentosa and Labrador Park, Hanbridge provides students with both academic excellence and cultural immersion.
For international students aspiring to study abroad in Singapore, whether aiming to pass the AEIS, secure entry into a Singapore neighbourhood school, or progress to elite schools such as Raffles Institution, Hanbridge Institute remains a dedicated partner in helping them achieve their educational dreams.