I’m Casey’s mom. Over the past few years, our family went through a difficult journey. But looking back now, I truly believe that meeting Beyond Education was a major turning point for us.

Casey was cheerful and outgoing as a child. She grew up in Shanghai and returned to Taiwan after finishing elementary school. We didn’t expect that after coming back, she would gradually become withdrawn and closed off. The pressure from academics and struggles with friendships started to wear her down. She often had trouble sleeping and lost motivation to study. As a mother, it was painful to watch her spiral, but I honestly didn’t know how to help.

Then, through a friend in Shanghai, I was introduced to John, the founder of Beyond Education. He wasn’t like other educators who just talk about grades—he genuinely cared about getting to know the child. I remember he said to Casey, “If studying feels overwhelming right now, why not join our summer program in the U.S.? It might give you a new perspective.” That one suggestion gave our family a sense of relief—and gave Casey space to breathe.

During the program, Casey visited farms, factories, hiked mountains, did volunteer work… She truly experienced the world and started to rediscover herself. What struck me the most was her final presentation at the end of the camp. At first, she resisted speaking in public. But after her first attempt didn’t go well, she asked for a second chance—this time, she nailed it. She told me afterward, “I didn’t think I could do it.” In that moment, I knew she was starting to believe in herself.

After she came back from the U.S., she was a different person. Her smile returned. Her eyes had a new light. She started helping around the house, took initiative, and opened up emotionally. Even our family dynamic changed—we communicated better, and the atmosphere became warmer. I also learned something important from Beyond Education: to let go. I used to worry constantly, but now I’ve learned to trust her, to support her as she explores her own dreams.

To me, Beyond Education isn’t just a place where kids “learn English” or “have fun.” It’s a space where they face real life and grow from the inside out. This experience didn’t just change Casey—it changed all of us.

If you’re like me and have ever felt helpless when your child loses their way, I sincerely recommend giving them a different kind of opportunity. Just like Casey, they might discover possibilities they never imagined—right around the corner.