HKIS – 1978-1980 -- Julie Schornstein Shedd
I moved from Miami, Florida to Hong Kong in 1978, in the middle of 8th grade. I was scared and nervous to be moving anywhere, especially outside of the country. In hindsight, the next two and a half years were one of the best experiences in my life. And, much of that focused on those I met and went to school with at HKIS.
I have so many fond memories I’m not sure where to begin, so instead, I’ll just briefly list some of my favorites below. See if you remember any of these or add your own in the comments.
Eating McDonald’s (available in the HKIS cafeteria) for lunch every day was a treat! Wish I could still eat Big Macs and French fries every day and not gain weight.
Stopping by the snack bar in the cafeteria each afternoon for a frozen ice cream treat.
Hanging out at the shack, sitting on crates, drinking San Miguel and smoking Marlboros.
Gathering on the third floor between classes or when you had any extra time during the school day. Schools today would never let you gather and smoke cigarettes on school grounds, but it was part of everyday life at HKIS.
Exploring new experiences and new locations over spring break, or interim as it was called at HKIS. Our India trip to Calcutta and Darjeeling in 1980 was a blast!
Attending two proms while at HKIS, wearing long dresses and powder blue eye shadow.
Taking the school bus from Grenville House to Repulse Bay each day was a long ride to school.
Going to Survival Camp in 8th grade and plucking a chicken.
Cheering from the stands at the holiday basketball tournaments, playing teams like ASIJ (American School in Japan). We were called Boosters in our matching red and blue corduroy dresses and saddle shoes.
Walking to the beach at Repulse Bay to hang out with friends, eat at McDonalds or have a drink at The Lido.
Riding in red taxis, packing onto a crowded double decker bus, or taking Star Ferry. No driver’s license until 18-years-old.
Playing tennis at the Ladies Recreation Club (LRC) or Hong Kong Country Club (HKCC) for family bonding activities. Or, if I was really brave, I’d try to take on Jimmy (“Roscoe”) Kwok.
Attending cotillion at The American Club, learning etiquette and how to dance.
Eating with friends at The Chuckwagon in The American Club.
Last, I have to thank my brother Hal, who initially helped make the move to Hong Kong and the transition to a new school survivable. I am so grateful for his friendship and companionship while I was trying to make new friends and maneuver this new big city. And, while he graduated and left HKIS before I did, sharing those experiences in Hong Kong has made us closer over the years.
Come to the reunion in San Diego and reminisce with us!

Julie Schornstein Shedd