After-school activities in the UK

This is an essay for The International Student Awards 2013 which is run by the British Council.

It's an award scheme for those international students who are making the most of their time in the UK.

To get a rough impression of my extracurricular activities, please start from the 4th paragraphs.

Please do not worry about me; I am healthy and happy here. We have just had a party last Wednesday organized by the college, nice meals and nice karaoke songs, great fun.

I finally received an offer from Imperial College London. I am so happy that because my hard work has been paid off. I still remember the day when I first told you that I wanted to go to UK to continue my study then go to Imperial College. You, father and I had a long argument, now everything seems to be clear, even father will agree, we made a right decision.

I missed the tough competition of the University Entrance Exams in our country, but I entered a brand new one in UK which is not only solving hard questions. I have to work hard on my studies, keep my room tidy, cook for myself etc as I am away from you. You chose a state college for me because you want me to be more independent, I think now I am proud to tell you that I am now indeed.

Since last May, I started to work as a volunteer. I have been working for Scope, which is a charity shop whose focus is helping people with cerebral palsy. I have learned how to sort clothes; I can instantly and correctly tell you the size of a T-shirt or dress by just looking at it for a few seconds. I have also learn how to help to operate a store, do promotions, treat customers well and even how to react when I see a thief. Last time I was on the till, Sue the manager asks me to 'notice' someone which was suspected to be a thief. Sue said, 'Just look AT him, give him some pressure, I don't want you to challenge him, safety comes first' At last, the man went