The speaker, Lily, recounts her journey from a single child raised by farmers in New York to a student at a prestigious London boarding school. Despite being poor and often ridiculed for her clothes and parents' occupation, Lily's love for learning and intelligence set her apart. At the age of 10, she demonstrated her academic prowess by solving complex sums mentally and reading advanced books.
Lily's academic success and intelligence made her a target for ridicule, especially when she won a thousand-dollar prize in a math competition. Her parents, while proud, were humiliated when they had to attend the competition in their work overalls.
However, Lily's life took a turn when a professor named Lynn offered her a place in his boarding school in London on a full scholarship. Despite initial reluctance from her parents, they eventually agreed to send her to London.
Upon arriving at her new high school in London, Lily was overwhelmed by the size of the school and her new dormitory. She made friends with two other students, Emmy and Madison, and they often hung out together.
Despite initially getting along well with Tyler, a transfer student who was also studying for the neurobiology program, Lily grew wary of Emmy's manipulative tactics. Emmy often used her connections and charm to get what she wanted, including a place on the debate team and the cheerleading squad.
Lily's academic achievements started to decline due to Emmy's constant interference. However, she managed to regain her focus and improved her academic performance.
In the end, Lily and Tyler both received a place in the neurobiology program at the university. The principal announced that two students from their school would be given a place in the program, and both Lily and Tyler were excited about this opportunity. The story ends with Lily and Tyler sharing a kiss, signifying their growing relationship.
1. Lily is from New York and was raised by two farmers.
2. Despite not having much money, Lily always had books to read and games to play.
3. Lily's parents were often busy working, which led her to explore the internet on an old computer.
4. By the time she was five, Lily could read advanced books and do large sums mentally.
5. Lily was part of a math competition in 10th grade and won a thousand dollars for correctly answering the final question.
6. Lily was offered a place in a boarding school in London on a full scholarship for gifted kids.
7. Lily's parents were hesitant about sending her away, but Lily begged them to let her go to London.
8. Lily was accepted into a neurobiology program at a great University every year.
9. When Lily arrived at her new high school in London, she was amazed by the size of the school and her massive dorm room.
10. Lily had two roommates, Emmy and Madison, at the boarding school.
11. Lily was bullied by Emmy, who used her position to manipulate others and exploit their weaknesses.
12. Lily scored full marks on a math quiz, while Emmy scored 99.
13. Lily was accused of arranging a fire at a bonfire in the woods, but she was cleared by the principal.
14. Lily decided to stay at the boarding school over the summer break to focus on her studies.
15. Lily and Tyler, another student, formed a study group and became close friends.
16. Lily and Tyler were both awarded a spot in a neurobiology program at a university.
17. Lily and Tyler shared a moment of passion, with Lily being kissed by Tyler.