CJC Flame Issue 1 2019

• CJC NEWSLETTER ISSUE ONE • MAY 2019 •

Principal's

Message

Dear CJCians, We began 2019 on an exciting note by welcoming a new cohort of JC1 students into the CJ family. Our JC2s planned an engaging Orientation Programme for our JC1s and helped induct them into the CJ community.

I am proud of the sense of family we have here at CJ. In this first issue of the year, we look back to a special part of the CJC journey for many, the year-end Stretch programmes that were conducted in November and December 2018. These include our annual Overseas Service Learning Programmes (OSLP) to Thailand and Vietnam, and overseas academic trips such as the inaugural Academic Trip to Amaravati in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Singapore. We celebrate the deep points of learning and reflection from CJCians who took part in these programmes. May they continue to lead and serve in Truth and Love in all that they do.

We are also heartened by how our Class of 2018 has done the college proud in achieving good results in the GCE ‘A’ Level Examinations, sustaining our good performance with 90.7% of students attaining at least 3 H2 passes and a pass in GP / Knowledge and Inquiry to qualify for University education. 174 of our students scored at least 80 rank points and above. This commendable outcome is only possible with God’s blessings, our committed staff and the strong support of our parents. We hope that our current JC2 and JC1 students will be encouraged by the performance of the sheer determination of their seniors and continue to strive for

improvement. Remember: stay focused and steadfast in achieving your academic goals.

Support each other in the ‘A’ level journey and continue to reflect on what you have learnt and how you have progressed.

Term 2 has been a busy and eventful term with many CJCians participating in the national SYF, A Division and other competitions. We are proud of the values, sporting spirit, teamwork and determination demonstrated by our competing CCAs, and wish the remaining teams the best in their endeavours.

God bless. In Veritate et Caritate.

Mrs Phyllis Lim Principal

On 19 October 2018, we also had the privilege of having Head of Civil Service and former CJCian Mr Leo Yip address our staff on the need for innovation and courage in the 21st century. It was an inspiring session that helped us to better understand how to prepare our students for the future.

Editors Aster Goh I-Mei Suzie Yanti Jumadi Wendy Priscillia Wong Daphne Tan Li Wen Nur Liyana Mohamed Tahir President Khoo En Long, Vesper

2

Vice-President Nadya Pang Qingrui Contributors Calyn Yee Charlotte Low Clare Lai Hui Ying Dhylan Singh Sheena Faith Cheong Jing Gerald Hong Jun Jie Jeremy Nunis

Jovan Aw Yong Lim Jia Rui Rachael Lisa Francis Lum Hui Qi, Sandrie Nicole Wang Rei En Odeta Frente Tibern Oh Zhou Yu Perry Lim Kai Jun Woo Jia How, Jonathan Vinessa Martin Budithi Zecary Tan Yi Shen

Photographers Celeste Yeong Cherlyn Ng Damien Tan Kaif Lim Lu Wenjie Melanie Lim Yugesh Ravindran Mrs Lee-Xu Yifang

Against

All Odds

Text by Sandrie Lum (2T05), Odeta Frente Tibern (2T08) and Vesper Khoo (2T20)

Doing well for the GCE ‘A’ Level is a feat that many wish to achieve, yet often seems out of reach. Some individuals, however, have soared above and beyond expectations to achieve stellar results against all odds, proving that nothing is impossible.

Ryan Lee (2T26)

“Starting out is the hardest. Once you start, it gets easier.”

“As long as you’ve put in your best effort and can be happy regardless of the outcome, that’s all that matters.”

With trainings taking up six days a week and lasting four and half hours each, Ryan Lee (2T26)’s schedule was hectic. Coupled with poor time management and a heavy workload, Ryan’s results in his first year were much less than ideal.

Knowing that he was unable to achieve his best otherwise, he made the conscious decision to revisit JC1. He built on the knowledge he had gained in his first year by adopting smarter study strategies and managing his time better. He also made it a point to listen in class and do his homework, which prevented doubts over what he learnt from snowballing. His efforts paid off when he realised he needed less revision during examination periods, which removed some weight off his shoulders. All these did not come easy, however. In his choice to revisit his JC1 year, he battled doubt and envied those who were able to move on to JC2.

However, through sheer determination and strength of character, he managed to push himself to his limits and achieved outstanding results at the GCE ‘A’ Level.

“I think it is unrealistic to expect to never fail.”

“You can’t change the past, but you can change the future.

Learn from failure and focus on more important things.”

Lee Jen Chye (2T09)

Transitioning from secondary school to the junior college system was fraught with hardship for Lee Jen Chye (2T09). He had entered CJC with a high L1R5 score and did not have sufficient academic foundation to handle the depth of the junior college curriculum. Alongside distractions and other commitments eating up his time, Jen Chye found himself lagging behind.

While this initial setback made Jen Chye doubt himself, he had already committed to continuing his path in CJC. He also knew that ‘O’ Level scores are not an indicator of performance at the GCE ‘A’ Level. These were the main factors that motivated Jen Chye and pushed him to achieve more. He wanted to make good on his decisions and prove to himself that he was more than what his ‘O’ Level results dictated.

Thankfully, this journey was not completed alone. Jen Chye had teachers, classmates and friends in his co-curricular activity whom he knew were looking out for his wellbeing and would help him - schoolwork or otherwise. Together, they walked the long journey, and Jen Chye reached the end, a better person than before.

3

Shaun Song (2T04)

“The A’s are unpredictable, but through hard work, everything is possible.”

“GP can’t be memorised. It needs to be inculcated and you need to be interested in it, so when you write your essays, it’ll flow naturally.”

Defying all odds and achieving stellar results at the GCE ‘A’ Level, one would be surprised to learn that Shaun Song (2T04) was not always an Arts student. In fact, he was a triple science student who made the switch due to his belief that the humanities offer important understanding about the world. Most of us can attest to the fact that juggling studies, relationships with others and managing other commitments, while getting reasonable amounts of rest is not easy at junior college. However, Shaun disavows this and is a living testament of that.

As a student councillor, Shaun emphasised the need to be consistent and sustain a steady momentum. This translates to a regular study schedule and involving himself actively in class, which increased his resilience to the rigour of the junior college curriculum. Shaun also credited his success to CJC’s teachers and support staff, who were steadfast and attentive to the students’ needs. During the interview we had with Shaun, he frequently reminded us to start arranging for consultation with the teachers. Now that you are privy to this, better start arranging for consultations!

On Purpose and Learning during the

'A' Level Journey Text by Vesper Khoo (2T20)

The GCE ‘A’ Level is trying. Students and teachers alike are familiar with its gruelling curricula and abstract concepts. Thankfully, none of us have to face it alone. This ‘cheat sheet’ contains insights from our teachers on the essence of their subjects and the right mentality to have, as well as trustworthy advice from our seniors to become better at schoolwork.

Sciences (Mathematics) From Teachers - Ms Ang Chuan Yin • “I want them [students] to appreciate how a formula came about, and not just memorise it.”

• Hence, the attitude required is to be willing to buckle down and practise to build a strong foundation of mathematical concepts, but doing so with a consciousness of what the formula represents.

From Graduates - Tiffany Tan (2T04, Class of 2018) • “Mathematics is a practice subject since questions generally do not fluctuate.”

• Hence, practise Mathematics questions to have a firm understanding of the subject. Be sure to consult your teachers to improve your understanding of Mathematics.

4

Arts (Economics) From Teachers - Mr Lim Meng Hui • Economics represents human reality through its theories and models, so that informed decisions can be made.

• Hence, to find the best way forward, think of the hows, the whats and the whys to decisions that are being made, and to the decisions that can be made. This applies to both Economics and life, and it helps give you purpose to enthuse and motivate you in your work.

From Graduates - Ryan Lee (2T26, Class of 2018) • “Knowing content is never enough.”

• Gain confidence in Economics concepts by practising papers under examination conditions, complete with the mental pressure and time limit.

• Since Economics is about purposeful decisions, a useful approach to some of the questions is to find causes and effects.

General Paper From Teachers - Ms Josephine Lin • Through the skills it imparts, GP aids us in finding the truth. These skills are concerned with thinking, the process of argumentation and argumentation itself.

• “You can never arrive at a definite answer.”

• Hence, you must never accept claims uncritically, because the world is gray, and the truth is hard to come by, but through GP, you are given tools to search for it.

From Graduates - Shaun Song (2T04, Class of 2018) • “Gain a topic of interest from any source about the world.”

• By working on a topic of your interest, you become motivated to do the necessary research for it, and gain necessary knowledge to write well.

• Debate and discuss your ideas with others who are interested in the same ideas to sharpen your understanding.

Always remember, the subjects you chose are not obstacles for you to overcome. They are models which attempt to build a full, truthful representation of the world you live in, and they seek to instill in you skills and values to take on the world. So take this advice, ask more about yourself and your subjects, build your own purpose in the world, and if it gets tough, people who care about you are here to help. All you have to do is take the hand they lend you.

5

Stretching Us to

Go Further

Text by Nadya Pang (2T05), Dhylan Singh (2T05) and Clare Lai (2T33)

Students on the Academic Trip to Amaravati were enriched by the exciting Geography and Economics lessons there

Nadiah Bte Rahman (2T05) remembers the eyes of the Thai children glimmering with enthusiasm as they were entertained by the games and activities planned by CJCians. Helping out at a local school was one of the many experiences that the students immersed themselves in while on the Overseas Service Learning Project (OSLP), and the hard work that led up to that moment was all worth it.

CJC provides a mĂŠlange of Stretch programmes for its students each year, including the OSLP, Outward Bound and academic trips. The students who attended these vastly different trips had one common goal - to reimagine the world as their classroom and internalise the values that they learnt throughout their time there. “We initially struggled with the language barrier but we eventually sensed a closeness with them and built on the common goals we shared with the children.â€? This was what Seth Ng (2T01) had to say about the Academic Trip to Amaravati when asked about the challenges he faced while in a foreign community. Through interacting with children at the local school and the mutual effort put into understanding one another, the students fostered close bonds and learnt about the importance of having a close-knit community, a lesson often stressed upon in CJC.

6

The students on these trips also embodied the qualities of a Thinker with a Mission, Leader with a Heart as they were humbled by their experiences and took charge of their learning. Joan Ong (2T03) recounts her experience in Vietnam where she witnessed the sheer determination of the people who had to weather the horrors of Agent Orange. “My admiration for them ignited my perseverance to continue pushing through challenges in my life,” she admitted. These trips taught them to embrace challenges wisely while nurturing themselves to be leaders with compassion. In CJC, we are instilled with the same value of broadening our vision, and to be committed to serving in faith and with integrity.

Lastly, the ‘growth mindset’ is an intrinsic quality needed for one to continue raising the bar for themselves. “I grew to be more independent and learnt to never shy away from taking on challenging tasks,” Chek Yun Ning (2T05) elucidated as she reflected on her experience. The journey of self-discovery that the student participants experienced through the Stretch programmes has allowed them to push themselves to overcome weaknesses and develop themselves intellectually.

The Stretch programmes provide us with the platform to view and experience the world as our classroom and surely, these newfound experiences contribute to a deeper understanding of the world.

The experiences that we acquire during trips like these help us better understand ourselves and others, and this only makes us even more thankful to be stretched to go further.

CJCians running bonding activities such as the Chicken and Eagle game with children from Thai Primary School

Taking in the historical sights of Vietnam

7

Belonging Text by Calyn Yee (2T01) and Faith Cheong (2T28)

New year, deeper friendships

Setting foot into a place with unfamiliar faces and environment is undeniably daunting. Without a friend in sight, what lies ahead can seem discouraging. Many of us would have experienced this feeling of immense uncertainty when we first came to CJC, especially international students who are still trying to find their place in this land far from their families, or others who lost touch or are unfamiliar with the Catholic faith. We may often feel alone when facing overwhelming adversities, forgetting that there is always someone to accompany us through our hardships.

No matter the different walks of life that we come from, our unity as a College is prominent in the culture of love and care that CJC strives to continue. Seth Ng (2T01) shares, “It is the warm smiles you see on everyone’s faces, be it your friends, teaching or non-teaching staff, where you’ll definitely find your place here in CJ - and your second family.”

Many would agree that the junior college curriculum is undoubtedly rigorous. In such a competitive environment, it often takes a toll on students both physically and mentally. However, CJC’s nurturing

8

environment creates a safe support system for students throughout their journey towards the GCE ‘A’ Levels, as illustrated by the strong belief that the teachers have in their students of varying grades and capabilities. Also, the students’ desire to create genuine connections helps forge meaningful relationships and encourage one another during this tiresome journey.

As a Catholic institution, CJC has provided a platform for its students to discover or nurture their faith. Anya Anika (2T13), who studied at a non-mission secondary school, reveals, “CJC has helped me to develop my faith, which I thought I had

lost. I have learnt and now understand my religion more and have been given many opportunities to grow my faith further.”

A family is about having unity in diversity.

Despite our differences, we are here with the common goal to become the best versions of ourselves as Thinkers with a Mission, Leaders with a Heart. Lin Ruo Xin (2T26), who came to Singapore at the age of 5, says it well. “The CJC community is kind and accepting, no matter who you are.

It’s just like how family members accept you unconditionally.” As personal as the journey for self-improvement seems, it is only possible with the CJC family by our side.

Student Council:

The Person Behind the Leader

Guiding in the CJC Family

Text by Nicole Wang (2T08) and Jovan Aw Yong (2T11)

Planning for a college event is not always smooth-sailing, given the large amount of time and people involved. Every wing and member of the Student Council (SC) has had their fair share of setbacks while bringing forth the accomplishments we see. We ask Eunike Ukadin (2T19), Gabriel Chua (2T06), and Trina Ng (2T03) - President of the 44th Student Council - to share some of the struggles and triumphs that they have faced.

Eunike endeavours for others to experience CJC’s culture of care. However, this has not always gone smoothly. During the planning of Graduation Night 2018, Eunike’s task of designing the door gift frustrated her, having had no prior experience in design.

“I remember crying, feeling so helpless,” she shares. Her struggles were noticed by her friends, who helped her to create a well-received design. From this, Eunike realised the support system that she could rely on, valuing the power of teamwork and friendship.

Gabriel sought to stretch himself in SC, to develop better time- and self-management skills. Despite his goal, he struggles with this issue till today. During Orientation 2019’s external activities day, he realised he had left behind an important item for one of the games. “I was shocked and really worried about how things would pan out.”

As one of the last few councillors to leave the college for the site, he felt responsible for this grave error, fearing that the entire games stations’ set-up would not be actualised. Nevertheless, the other

councillors cooperated to come up with an alternative game on the spot, making the plan an overall success despite the setback.

As a firm believer in servant-leadership, Trina has always given her all to her work. This took a toll on her when her grandmother passed away, and she fell sick during SC’s planning period for Orientation. Not able to fully contribute, she felt like she was dragging her team down. She initially felt guilty for resting and grieving, but came to appreciate that as part of a team, she had a group of councillors supporting her. As the representative of CJC’s almost-1600 students, Trina is aware of the weight that comes with the position. After the prior incident, she understood the importance of caring for one’s self, as it reflects her own capacity to serve others. Though initially

plagued with anxiety, she finds comfort in her what her position allows her to do.

“Knowing that I have the potential to create change and empower students to call CJC home reminds me of why I joined,” she commented, and takes comfort in knowing that she serves as the catalyst for change in her wider community.

‘True nobility is being superior to your former self.’ Just like all of us, the SC are humans with follies, requiring the aid of others to overcome them and better themselves. Trina believes that SC follows this notion, and it is the outcome that keeps them going. “Though Council is mentally and emotionally laborious, it becomes worthwhile when we see our ideas come to life and benefit our college community.”

Many wings, one body

It’s not about winning, it’s about taking part

9

Ready, Study, Go! Text by Vinessa Martin (2T34) and Charlotte Low (2T05)

Have you ever looked at one of your classmates with amazement, wondering what secret methods they use to get such stellar grades? Well, you’re not alone! Flame sat down with some honour-roll students to ask them for tips on schoolwork-CCA balance, stress management and more. Here is what they had to say.

Stacy Lee (2T05) What are some study techniques that you use?

I consolidate the content learnt for all subjects by creating my own notes. However, practicing different questions and going through them with your tutor afterwards is more important.

Which subject did you find challenging to handle and how did you overcome it?

H1 Mathematics, because I love expressing my thoughts in words, something that you cannot really do in Maths. I eventually found joy seeing the patterns between similar questions and recognizing keywords in the questions to facilitate my understanding of the subject better.

Ronan Siah (2T04) Any tips for individual subjects?

For Geography, my studying strategy is not to purely memorize content, but instead to understand the processes and key points. In order to extend my understanding, I try to link what I learn in geography to what I observe around me.

How do you effectively manage your time?

I try to complete tasks early to avoid work from piling up. Over the weekend, I will complete tasks for tutorials that haven’t been assigned yet and set aside a fixed amount of time for my CCA duties.

Aakash Dubey (2T34) How do you manage stress?

Mainly by doing my CCA work. A lot of it involves meticulous planning and effective communication with my peers, browsing through the Internet and adapting readings from science textbooks I find in libraries. I find satisfaction in carrying out these activities, which are not related to my academics. I feel that procrastinating can have disastrous effects on your studies, so try to keep active. If you’re really tired, sleeping early is also a great way of managing stress!

Studying effectively may be challenging, but it is made a lot easier with strong support from the people around you, as well the clear intentionality we detect from these peers. We hope these tips will remind you that you’re not alone on this journey. Good luck, everyone!

10

Getting through

the JC years

Text by Rachael Lim (2T01) and Zecary Tan (2T21)

Many students find it increasingly tough to juggle their school work and get sufficient rest, especially with the longer hours that they now spend in school.

Our seniors who did well this year revealed their approaches that contributed to their academic and holistic success, showing that it is possible to juggle these responsibilities and still do well.

‘Et honorem, Et gloriam’ - a quote in Latin which means “For honor, for glory”. This is the adage that Brian Shim (T05, Class of 2018) lives by. To him, it holds the deeper meaning of perseverance in his journey of learning. Brian shares that he has had the privilege of experiencing education in different countries, and finds that Singapore offers the best system for him. He scored above 85 rank points in the 2018 GCE ‘A’ Levels-when asked for his recipe for success, he stressed the importance of being resilient and persevering to accomplish one’s personal goals.

As a student councillor and an active member of the Oratorical Society, Brian had heavy responsibilities on his shoulders. Despite being busy with these responsibilities, he believes that one should continue to take part in many activities for their personal growth.

Brian believes in the value of planning ahead which has enabled him to stay focused and reduced stress and anxiety nearer to examinations. He also recommends that revision schedules be realistic. In addition, Brian emphasised the need to factor time in for friends and family as it helps to refresh the mind, which is crucial in refining one’s focus in their revision.

All smiles throughout 2T01

Besides individual effort, class culture and spirit does help to motivate students to put in the effort to accomplish their goals collectively. As the Home Tutor of 2T01 (2018), Mr Amos Tan conducts regular check-ins with the class and makes time to have conversations with each of his students to better understand them.

Mr Tan’s belief in the importance of each and every student is a strong factor in motivating his students to work hard. He goes beyond his duties as a teacher, taking time out of his schedule to participate in bonding sessions with his class, eating and interacting with them in the canteen. This personal approach has helped to ease conflict and strengthen class unity. With this, 2T01 was able to achieve rousing success in the GCE ‘A’ Levels as a whole class, further emphasising the value of class unity as a factor in achieving success.

With the advice that our seniors and teachers have given us, they have also passed to us the torch for the continuity of our flame.

Let us bear it nobly.

Brian Shim

Mr Amos Tan posing with 2T01 after Cross Country 2018

11

Spotlight on our

new Vice-Principal Text by Jonathan Woo (2T31)

Our new Vice Principal (Academic), Mrs Poon Wai Chin

This year the College welcomes our new Vice-Principal, Mrs Poon Wai Chin, into the CJ family. The Flame finds out more about her role, her views as an educator and her vision for the college.

The beauty of the college grounds was Mrs Poon Wai Chin’s initial impression of CJC when she first stepped foot here in December 2018 to begin her new appointment as Vice-Principal (Academic).

As it was the December holidays, it was largely void of students. But those whom she chanced upon were warm and friendly. “When I introduced myself as the new Vice Principal, they were caught by surprise and welcomed me to the college,” she shares delightedly.

The congeniality and warmth demonstrated by those students are reflected in the rest of the college community as Mrs Poon has noted in her interactions with CJCians from the start of the academic year.

Mrs Poon’s belief in the value of lifelong learning models the growth mindset for the college community. She views every challenge as an opportunity for learning and for making a significant contribution.

“Adapting to a new environment is a skill that all of us will need to continue to have in whatever phase of our lives,” she notes. Before she took on the mantle as Vice-Principal, Mrs Poon served at the Ministry of Education (MOE) headquarters. She found the stint to be beneficial in terms of understanding policy decision-making and curriculum development. Mrs Poon also sees herself as an

12

educator who appreciates returning to a school setting where she is able to interact with students and teachers, addressing their needs and concerns, and to understand the support that can be given to achieve quality teaching and learning. Making time for students and staff are her key priorities, which shape her daily duties in college.

A veteran educator, Mrs Poon highly values people skills and its importance for teachers and students as effective communication and building positive relationships is key in the modern workforce.

“Being a school leader is not just a desk-bound job, we are in the people business. Since we are in the people business, we need to create time for the people whom we work with,” she shares. This is part of what Mrs Poon wishes for every CJCian to learn in the two years spent here. She encourages CJCians to cultivate an ability to look beyond ourselves and to care for others. “This contributes to having a happier life too, as when you have a heart for the people, you have a purpose in life, and I wish for our students to lead meaningful, purposeful and happy lives,” she says. Mrs Poon also shared her hopes for our students to have the desire to learn and to contribute to society throughout their lives.

As we go about our busy schedules each day, CJCians should take the time to appreciate our school leaders like Mrs Poon who bear some of the highest hopes for us and support us in becoming Thinkers with a Mission and Leaders with a Heart.

‘Have the courage to create something

new, different and significant ‘ An Afternoon with Mr Leo Yip, Head of Civil Service

The College had the pleasure of inviting Head of Civil Service (HCS) and CJC alumnus (class of 1981), Mr Leo Yip, to our campus on 19 October 2018, to host a dialogue session with all teachers. Mr Yip shared his perspectives on a range of national issues, including education and the civil service, and emphasised the important role teachers play in guiding and nurturing the younger generation to continually adapt, innovate and develop the entrepreneurial dare to survive in this VUCA world.

Students from the Editorial Club had the opportunity to pose some questions to Mr Yip pertaining to leadership and exciting future opportunities available to young people, and he had these words of wisdom to share with all CJCians: “Every student should have a conviction to channel your talents and energy to do good not just for yourselves but for those around you. That covers both Mission and Heart – what is the good you seek to do?

“Those of us who are entrusted with the responsibility of leadership, must care about the people we lead. That is, to be a leader with a heart. In other words, treat people right, as you would want them to treat you. Leaders should care about people, not just about the task, or the work.

“This is one of the principles of leadership that I have held dear over time: People don’t care how much their leaders know, until they know how much their leaders care.

“In this digital age, we are inundated with loads of information every day. It is sometimes difficult to separate fake from real, and fiction from fact.

But all the more so, it is critical that we discern the truth from the fake. Otherwise we will make judgements, form opinions, shape attitudes and take action based on misinformation, distortions and untruths. Truth is about honesty and integrity. This is where being discerning and making the effort to verify information, to uncover the truth is so much more important in today’s world.

“For young Singaporeans, it is also important to think carefully and deeply about issues of importance to you. Don’t jump to conclusions and decisions just by reading a headline, or a one-line summary in a text message. When I am overloaded with information and work, it is sometimes tempting to make a quick decision by skimming over an email or a paper. But I have learnt that such decisions made superficially, are not the best. If something is important to you, it is worth your thinking about it carefully, take the time to digest the information you have about it and reflect on it more deeply, before you make up your mind.

“I believe that exciting opportunities lie ahead for young Singaporeans and for Singapore. We sit in the middle of ASEAN and Asia which have strong economic growth potential in the decades to come. The global economic centre of gravity is shifting towards Asia. As a society and a people, we are also well positioned to deploy digital technology to improve our lives, our economy and our society.

“Many of our young people are already seizing these opportunities – in the technology field with start-ups, working in companies that tap on the growth of the region, and pursuing their ideas and ideals to change the world.

better still, starting a start-up, and seeking to create something new, different and significant.

“The ability to adapt and the willingness to try something new and different will be an increasingly important trait for young Singaporeans. However, the flip side of trying something new has to be the resilience to deal with failure when that something new does not work out.

“I would encourage young Singaporeans to take the long perspective. Take the time to experiment, and to try something different. You have the luxury of youth. Do not be deterred by failure. Today’s failure would even be seen as a blessing when you achieve success down the road.

“The story of adaptation and the willingness to try something new and different describes the Singapore story too. One key factor behind Singapore’s success is that we are prepared to re-invent our success model, even when things are still going well. We constantly stretch the ambitions of what is possible.

“Today’s world may seem fast-changing, uncertain and complex. But it is in periods of change and disruption that new opportunities abound. I believe that young Singaporeans are well equipped with the ability and the drive to seize these new and exciting opportunities.

Believe in yourself, form that conviction to do good, and go out to change the world around you and beyond, for the better.”

Mr Leo Yip addressing our CJ staff

“53 years after independence, we are now a country with many different pathways for our young people to do the best for themselves in life - in the arts, sports, entrepreneurship, technology, and more.

“In this exciting environment, young Singaporeans should not suppress the courage to try new things – such as joining a start-up, or

13

Giving Light

to the World

Text by Lisa Francis (2T31) and Gerald Hong (2T01)

There are not enough words in the dictionary to describe the significance of giving back. Even the simplest acts of kindness can go a long way in changing someone’s life.

It creates close-knit relationships between strangers.

There are many ways one can give back to the society.

Through service, people gain eye-opening experiences by helping others in need. In Singapore, schools widely encourage students to participate in community service to learn life skills and attain knowledge.

Ng Yee Lin of 2T22, who received the Youth Community Leadership Award this year, exemplifies this. The award was given by the Yio Chu Kang Community Club for her heart for service. Yee Lin has been constantly involved in the community around her, from giving free tuition to the less fortunate, to helping out villagers in an Overseas Service Learning Programme in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Through all this, she remains humble about her achievements as she firmly believes that it is her duty to contribute to the welfare of others in society.

In all that Yee Lin does, she is a living ideal of the College Mission, Thinker With a Mission, Leader with a Heart (TMLH). She constantly emphasises how this mission drives her conviction that we should keep our goals in mind while serving others genuinely with care and empathy. She feels one does not require a leadership title to help or serve others, and instead only needs to be courageous in taking a step out of their comfort zones to be of service to their communities.

However, she has had to overcome her share of challenges, such as her fear of meeting new people. Volunteering often requires one to interact with new partners and work with other volunteers.

For instance, Yee Lin was the Youth Coordinator for one of Youth Corps’ events. Despite being the youngest Youth Coordinator, she was tasked to give instructions to adults who were Volunteer Befrienders. This was indeed a challenge, but Yee Lin persevered and managed to lead the session confidently with her partners.

Such perseverance would not be possible without the unwavering passion and dedication that she has for community work. In fact, Yee Lin shared that she wishes to pursue a vocation in social work so that she can continue to help the less fortunate and play her part in society in future.

Indeed, giving back to society has a huge significance, and every individual should help one another to make this world a better place. In CJC, students are given opportunities to help others, and to participate in local and overseas community involvement programmes. Giving back to society reminds people that they are not alone and helping one another is fundamental in connecting us all as part of the fabric of humanity.

14

exCELLing in

Biology

CJC PROGRESSES TO ROUND 2 OF SINGAPORE BIOLOGY OLYMPIAD 2018 FOR THE FIRST TIME! Text by Vinessa Martin (2T34)

Jeevesh Mahbubani with his Biology teacher, Ms Prabhmeet Kaur

Happy faces all around as the 2018 SBO ‘squad’ receive their certificates

In late October 2018, when most were stressing over the upcoming Project Work (PW) and A-Level Mother Tongue Examinations (MTL), five students from the current J2 cohort were poring over the extensive Biology Olympiad Syllabus. These students, Vinessa Martin (2T34), Jeevesh Mahbubani (2T23), Tan Yik Shyuan (2T23), Sabrina Low (2T25) and Chea Rui Yang (2T28) made up CJC’s 2018 Biology Olympiad ‘Squad’ (as the teachers affectionately liked to call them).

It was no easy feat for the team to prepare for the Olympiad, given the fact that much of the International Biology Olympiad syllabus was completely new to them. It was also extremely content-heavy, proving to be a challenge even for those on the team who excelled in Biology, especially with the tight time frame. Despite having to balance studying for the Olympiad with preparations for their PW Oral Presentations and MTL papers, the team took these

challenges in their stride and did the College proud with their accomplishments. Under the guidance of the JC2 Biology teachers Mr Cipto Hu, Ms Prabhmeet Kaur, Mr Goh Tor Heng and Ms Wong Hoay Chet, one of the team members, Jeevesh, progressed to the second round of the competition! In this round, he conducted some very interesting experiments not typically covered in the H2 Biology syllabus, such as dissecting a live crayfish and bacterial plating.

Jeevesh credits his success mostly to his effective time management. He recalls revising major chapters and key concepts during his breaks and free periods. His advice for any potential juniors keen on participating in the competition is this: “Remember to enjoy the process and have fun! It may feel stressful and there are times you may even feel demoralised, but try to be positive and foster the deeper spirit of inquiry that every scientist should integrate into their lives.”

The bar for the Singapore Biology Olympiad may seem to have been set impossibly high, but if one has the tenacity and determination to push on when things seem very daunting, success can most assuredly be attained.

15

Genesis

Text by Trina Ng (2T03) Students immersing themselves in prayer during the Praise and Worship segment led by members of the Music Ministry

Fr. Gregory sharing his reflections on the Scripture Passage of the Transfiguration of Jesus with the Student participants.

This year, a new Student Faith Community named Genesis was born in our College. Named after the first book of the Bible, Genesis aims to create new beginnings for its members - to enable them to experience a renewed sense of faith and forge new bonds of friendship with others in the community, so as to better support each other in the course of their CJ journey.

Students from the Catholic Activities Wing of the 44th Student Council, together with students from the Music Ministry, worked together since September 2018 to conceptualise the plans for Genesis. Aside from designing the activities, they soon discovered that a conducive space was required for community building.

Thus, they laboured hard to clean up the Music Ministry room, re-furnished it, and created a cosy space ready to house the first Genesis session on 14 March.

The first Genesis session, titled ‘It is wonderful for us to be here’, was attended by more than forty students. The session started with a time of games to help members break the ice, followed by a time of Praise and Worship led by the Music Ministry, during which the students were deeply moved and immersed themselves in prayer.

Darrel Liew (2T17) recounted, “Everyone in the room was so open to sing during worship, it was really such a rare sight considering many in the room didn’t know one another.”

Our College Chaplain, Reverend Father Gregory Tan SJ, then gave a short scriptural reflection on the transfiguration of Jesus. For the many of the students who attended, Father Gregory’s sharing was

16

relatable. Hearing the sharing personally from a priest who studied theology also broadened their perspective and helped to make more meaning of Scripture. It sparked great interest among them, so much so that some were disheartened when it came to an end.

The session then ended with a segment that invited participants to reflect on how they could apply what they have learnt in their daily lives. The first session of Genesis gave students an opportunity to feel the warmth and intensity of God’s love for them. Many of them admitted that they came not knowing to expect, yet, they left with confirmation in their hearts that the Genesis experience is something they are willing to invest in.

The next Genesis session will be held on 27 May, 5.15pm at the Music Ministry Room. Genesis’ students will also be holding Praise and Worship sessions at 7.40am every Friday before morning mass.

All are welcome to come by for a time of prayer and reflection.

Students engaged in a time of group sharing at the start of the Genesis Session

Photo essay

FSV

Cherlyn Ng (2T04)

As we build our school’s legacy in developing well-rounded individuals, our students grow and learn together, a sustained vision that we carry even as we move towards the future. As the CJC community flourishes, the vibrancy of our culture shines through the students. Helpful, enthusiastic and resilient: these are the values that we need as we cross over into the time ahead of us, as we are moulded into Thinkers with a mission and Leaders with a heart. This is the goal that we are working towards for the betterment of our own selves. Carrying ourselves with pride, we are glad to appropriate and pass on these values to our juniors. Looking into the future, we hope that our students will continue to uphold what the college believes to be vital for our future progress and continue to carry the CJ spirit within them, burning brightly while serving others in Truth and Love. (Rachael Lim & Calyn Yee 2T01)

Celeste Yeong (2T04)

Damien Tan (2T35) Damien Tan (2T35)

Damien Tan (2T35)

17

Yugesh Ravindran (2T09)

Yugesh Ravindran (2T09)

Kaif Lim (2T32)

Kaif Lim (2T32)

Kaif Lim (2T32)

Mrs Lee-Xu Yifang

Mrs Lee-Xu Yifang

18

Melanie Lim (2T18)

Lu Wenjie (2T09)

Melanie Lim (2T18)

Mrs Lee-Xu Yifang

19

129 Whitley Road, Singapore 297822 Telephone: +65 6252 4038 Fax: +65 6253 7267 Email: catholic_jc@moe.edu.sg Website: www.cjc.moe.edu.sg Facebook: @CatholicJC Instagram: @catholic.jc