Rongsheng “Robert” Zeng’s journey at Vacaville Christian School began when he arrived as an international student for his high school years. Like many students stepping into a new environment, he was navigating more than just academics. He was building language skills, finding his place, and discovering where he belonged. What he found at VCS was more than a school. He found a community.
Robert quickly immersed himself in campus life, embracing every opportunity in front of him. Whether on stage, on the court, or in the classroom, he made the most of his experience. His love for music took shape through conservatory productions and competitions, where he developed both confidence and creativity. At the same time, he thrived as a student-athlete, competing on the varsity volleyball and basketball teams.
Beyond academics and athletics, Robert leaned into leadership and connection. He served as the international student representative on the Student Council and participated in clubs like Mu Alpha Theta and the National Honor Society. Each experience added another layer to his time at VCS, shaping not only what he could do, but who he was becoming.
The relationships he built along the way left a lasting impact. Teachers like Mrs. Golden created a sense of care and belonging, while Coach Borges challenged and developed him as an athlete. His music teacher helped nurture a passion that would continue to grow long after graduation. Together, they reflect what Robert experienced across campus, a group of educators who invest deeply in their students.
As Robert reflects on his time at VCS, one of the most meaningful areas of growth was his faith. Surrounded by a Christ-centered community, he experienced encouragement, support, and genuine care. That environment helped him grow personally and spiritually while also giving him the confidence to step forward, develop his voice, and find his place.
After graduating from VCS, Robert continued to pursue both his analytical and creative passions. He attended the University of Rochester, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in Financial Economics and Music Composition. His journey then led him to Duke University, where he completed a Master of Quantitative Management in Business Analytics in 2025, focusing on data-driven decision-making and strategic insights.
His path was not without challenges. Robert committed himself fully to each opportunity, investing deeply in his academic work, including a capstone project that ultimately opened the door to a key professional connection. Even with strong preparation, the process required persistence. Months of applications, interviews, and technical meetings tested his resilience. Through it all, he remained focused.
That perseverance paid off.
Shortly after graduating, Robert was offered a professional internship with the National Basketball Association in New York. Today, he applies his analytical expertise with the Brooklyn Nets, bringing together the same discipline, creativity, and determination that began during his time at VCS.
Looking back, Robert credits his success to hard work, resilience, strong relationships, and perseverance. Each step of his journey reflects the foundation built during his high school years.
For students and families considering VCS, his encouragement is simple and meaningful. Take advantage of every opportunity. From rigorous academics to athletics, extracurriculars, and relationships, each experience matters. The AP classes challenge and prepare students well, but it is the people who make the difference.
At VCS, students are surrounded by teachers and peers who genuinely care, support, and invest in their future.
And for Robert, that made all the difference.
