Hello, I'm

Zeen Xiao

Global Citizen • Tokyo, Japan

A global citizen navigating three cultures, three languages, and one boundless curiosity about what makes societies tick.

Tokyo, Japan Class of 2027 Trilingual
Explore My Story

Where Three Worlds Meet

Born with roots stretching across continents, I carry within me the philosophical depth of Chinese heritage, the disciplined beauty of Japanese culture, and the adventurous spirit of the Caribbean.

Growing up as an international student at the New International School of Japan in Tokyo, I've learned that the most profound insights emerge at the intersection of different perspectives. My days unfold in three languages — English in the classroom, Japanese on the streets of Tokyo, and Chinese at home — each one offering a unique lens through which to understand the world.

This cross-cultural journey has shaped my deepest academic passion: understanding how societies organize themselves, make collective decisions, and navigate the tension between tradition and progress. Whether I'm analyzing the economic policies that shaped post-war Japan, debating ethical frameworks in class, or exploring how historical forces continue to echo in modern politics, I find myself drawn to the big questions about how humans live together.

Global Identity

Citizen of Saint Kitts and Nevis, raised in China, educated in Japan — a truly global perspective.

Three Languages

Fluent in English (TOEFL 105), conversational Japanese (JLPT N4, pursuing N3), and native Chinese.

Analytical Mind

Drawn to history, political economy, and social science — understanding the forces that shape human civilization.

Intellectual Passions

The questions that keep me thinking long after class ends

02

History & Cultural Analysis

Living across three cultures has made history personal for me. I see the echoes of the past everywhere — in Tokyo's blend of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation, in the stories my family carries from China, and in the colonial history of the Caribbean. History isn't just dates and events; it's the DNA of how societies think and act today.

03

Philosophy & Ethics

My mentoring sessions have taken me deep into philosophical territory — from debating the ethics of complex social issues to exploring how duty, education, and cultural values shape moral reasoning. I've learned that the most important questions rarely have simple answers, and that's exactly what makes them worth pursuing.

04

Strategy & Game Theory

My love for grand strategy games like Europa Universalis IV, Hearts of Iron IV, and Crusader Kings III isn't just entertainment — it's a window into geopolitics, resource management, and the consequences of historical choices. These games deepen my understanding of how nations rise and fall, and I've written about how life mirrors game mechanics: leveling up through challenges, navigating side quests, and learning that preparation and adaptability both play essential roles in any journey.

Creative Writing

Finding my voice through metaphor, symbolism, and storytelling

Through an intensive creative writing mentorship, I've been developing my ability to see the world through a writer's lens — transforming everyday observations into vivid narratives rich with symbolism and metaphor. What began as structured exercises has grown into a genuine passion for the craft of storytelling.

Essay

Life is Like a Video Game

An exploration of how game mechanics mirror real life — from leveling up through academic challenges, to navigating side quests that build character, to accepting that randomness and luck are part of every journey. Drawing on my deep experience with role-playing games and the D20 system, I weave personal experiences into a universal metaphor about growth and progress.

Descriptive Writing

Scenes Through a Writer's Eye

Trained to describe scenes as vividly as if painting them for someone who cannot see, I've developed the skill of transforming visual details into rich, textured prose. From dissecting film openings to crafting character backstories, each exercise strengthens my ability to capture the essence of a moment through precise, evocative language.

Creative Exploration

The Art of Metaphor

From comparing cars on a Los Angeles highway to stitches on a tapestry, to crafting character backstories inspired by cinema classics, my creative writing journey has been about learning to see connections where others see only surface. Every metaphor is a bridge between the familiar and the profound.

"Writing is like a muscle — it strengthens with daily practice. The goal isn't perfection; it's trusting your instincts and letting creativity flow."

A guiding principle from my creative writing mentorship

Activities & Athletics

From the pitch to the page — pursuits that shape who I am

Futsal

ISTAA League, Tokyo (2023–2024)

School football club & competitive league
🏇

Equestrian

5 Years (2015–2020)

4th place, Guangdong Equestrian League
🏊

Swimming

5 Years (2015–2020)

Long-term discipline & endurance
🏋

Fitness Training

Weekly with Personal Trainer

Compound movements, running & strength
🌍

Cartography & Map Drawing

Lifelong Passion

European maps & fictional alternate-history worlds
📚

Historical Research

Curious Cardinals Mentorship

Northern Ireland Troubles & Eastern European history

My pursuits reflect how I learn best — through immersion and sustained curiosity. Five years of horse-riding and swimming in Guangdong taught me patience and persistence. Competing in Tokyo's ISTAA futsal league sharpened my teamwork. Off the field, I channel that same dedication into drawing intricate maps of Europe and imagined worlds, and into deep conversations with a history specialist about the forces that have shaped Eastern Europe. Whether physical or intellectual, every pursuit is a way of understanding the world more deeply.

My Journey

Key milestones along the way

2009

Born into a global family

Born on August 8th with roots in China and citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis — a multicultural identity from day one.

Early Years

Childhood travels

Early exposure to different cultures through family travels, including visits to the United States and experiences across Asia.

2022

TOEFL Achievement

Scored 105 on the TOEFL, demonstrating strong English proficiency as a multilingual student.

2023–2025

New International School of Japan

Enrolled in a rigorous academic program, taking multiple AP courses and developing intellectual interests in political economy and social science.

2025

Creative Writing Mentorship

Began an intensive 8-week creative writing program, developing skills in metaphor, symbolism, and narrative craft.

2025

College Exploration Tour

Visited universities across the U.S. Northeast — from Boston to Washington D.C. — exploring campuses and academic communities.

2026–2027

Senior Year & Applications

Pursuing college applications with a focus on political economy, quantitative social science, and programs that value global perspectives.

Let's Connect

I'm always eager to connect with fellow students, educators, and mentors who share a passion for understanding our complex world. Whether you want to discuss political economy, exchange cultural perspectives, or explore shared interests, I'd love to hear from you.

Tokyo, Japan