When Jerry Li ’27 first arrived at the School as an incoming freshman, he stepped into an entirely new world.
Upper Schoolers may know Li as the charismatic Upper School Senate Vice President or the founder of the School’s Mock Trial Club, but before he found his place in the community, Li had to adjust to the unfamiliar.
Before coming to America for high school, Li went through multiple school systems: traditional Chinese schools—both public and international—and even a year of homeschooling in Shanghai.
Each system shaped his life, but none resembled the environment he encountered after landing in the United States.
“The moment I came to [this school], it just felt so different [than anything I’d experienced before],” Li said.
The difference stemmed from more than just a new language, but also the culture and sense of community. Adjusting to this new setting proved far from easy.
“It’s hard for a person to switch their mindset so quickly from place to place,” Li said.
However, this challenge also became a source of motivation. Li leaned into the unfamiliar.
He found opportunities to connect—on the basketball court, in Student Senate, and now through his newest leadership role: founder of the School’s Mock Trial Club.
The idea to start the club began when Li met with an old friend who now competes on Yale’s mock trial team.
Drawn to the combination of logic, performance, communication, and teamwork that mock trial provides, Li felt determined to introduce it into the School’s community.
However, introducing a new club, especially one as complicated as mock trial, came with its own challenges.
“Whatever you do, when you’re starting something new, you always get criticism. No matter who you are,” Li said.
Despite the challenges, Li held onto his confidence and vision for the club’s future. With support from Upper School law teacher Ken Levine and interested students, the club has been running smoothly.
While the team remains in its early stages, Li sees a bright and competitive future ahead. He hopes to have the team participate in mock trial competitions next year.
“We might not be able to compete this year,” Li said. “This year can be a preparation year, but next year, I think we’re off to go [compete].”
Li also serves as a member of the School’s Upper School Senate.
“I ran for vice president last year, and this year I get to fill that role,” Li said.
In Senate, Li works closely with President Mary Wang ’26. Along with other members, he helps organize major school events such as the semi-formal dance and De-Stress Fest, and prepares materials for reporting at Board of Trustees meetings.
From navigating cultural transitions to building new traditions at the School, Li’s journey shows that connecting with a community often begins by stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
