CJC Flame Issue 1 2018

CJC NEWSLETTER ISSUE ONE • MAY 2018

Building Our

Legacy

Principal’s

Message

Dear CJCians,

We began 2018 by marking a milestone in the history of our College. With the blessing of Archbishop William Goh during Commencement Ceremony, we officially launched the House Patrons and Shields for our four Houses, Albert, Joseph, Patrick and Michael. In the same ceremony, we also formally welcomed the JC1s into our CJC family. The values embodied by the House Patrons and Shields will inspire and guide CJCians as we continue to build on CJC’s legacy. I am grateful for the hard work put in by teachers and students to develop the House Patrons and Shields.

This is a gift of love which will provide a lasting legacy that will benefit generations of CJCians. We pray that God will continue to bless our College as we continue to grow our College ethos and legacy as one family.

In this first issue of the year, we also look back to a special part of the CJC journey for many, the end-of-year stretch programmes, including the Overseas Service Learning Programme, that were conducted in November and December 2017. We celebrate the deep points of learning and reflection from the CJCians who took part in these programmes. May they continue to lead and serve in Truth and Love in all that they do.

Editors Aprilene Goh Huishan Nur Liyana Mohamed Tahir Daphne Tan Li Wen Aster Goh I-Mei President Lim Bi Hui Vice-President Franklin Angela

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We are also heartened by our ‘A’ level results this year and are encouraged by the many students who achieved outstanding or improved results because of their sheer determination, diligence and sound values.

We hope that our JC2 and JC1 students will be encouraged by the performance of their seniors and continue to strive for improvement. The leadership traits, enthusiasm and zest you have displayed thus far are notable. Do maintain this

Contributors Amanda Pei Charmaine Hong Clare Lai Edrina Risson Elizabeth Tan Franklin Angela Jonathan Seah Lim Bi Hui Lim Howie Lorenzo Rubio

Nadiah Hisham Nicole Teo Seow Hui Qin Stephanie Cheng

momentum of development and keep sight of the academic and other goals that lie ahead of you. Support each other in the journey and continue to reflect on what you have learnt and how you have progressed.

We are into Term 2, a very busy term. Many CJCians will be participating in various sports and external competitions, the Singapore Youth Festival, and showcasing their talents in public performances. We wish all our teams the best in their participation. We remind CJCians to be gracious and sporting in all events. The success lies in the effort and teamwork carried out in the spirit of ‘In Veritate et Caritate’.

God bless.

Mrs Phyllis Lim Principal

Photographers Aye Phyu Thant Jonathan Tay Tok Nimoe Jaren Ng Sharel Ang Fiona Goh Ms Stephanie Wang Mrs Lee-Xu Yifang Au Fait Studios - Abel Tan

Our Houses:

The Treasure Past Ages have Bestowed Text by Charmaine Hong (2T20), Edrina Risson (2T29) & Lorenzo Rubio (2T02)

CJC, 2018. It is a sight to behold. The entire grandstand blanketed in red, orange, yellow and green. Clad in each of these colours, teams of CJCians are on the field, staring intently at each other - their eyes ablaze with determination; their hearts intent on bringing victory to their friends, their class, their House.

1975 CJC was founded in 1975, and it quickly grew in enrollment. In 1979, 900 students were welcomed into CJC and organising college activities for all students was a challenge. To solve this challenge, then-Principal Brother Joseph Kiely, together with his team of teachers, conceptualised an idea that would eventually give rise to one of the longest-lasting institutions in CJC - our House System.

Cross Country 1981: During the formative years of the House system

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2018

Till today, the Houses form an integral part of the CJC Experience, with House Captains and Sports Leaders coming together to rally their House and College spirit through their zestful cheers.

A picture with the ArchBishop with the new House banners

1979 Set up in 1979, our House System organised students of the College for CCA and Sports events, giving all students the opportunity to compete in sports and to build a spirit of friendly competition and collaboration. Our House System continues to increase mass participation and allows students of different backgrounds to showcase their talents and foster team building and bonding.

The beginnings of the current House system

2012

There were originally six Houses; John and Gregory, along with the current four: Albert, Joseph, Michael and Patrick. For a period of time, the House system was put on hiatus.

It was re-established in 2012, retaining four out of the six original Houses. For many alumni, being part of a House amplified their sense of identity and belonging to the College. Pushing forward together as one House is one of the fond memories that many recall of their time here.

An early picture of our beloved Houses

Cheering for their House

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The

4 House Patrons and Shields PATRICK

Patron: Brother Patrick Loh TMLH Attribute: Nurturing

Brother Ildephonsus Patrick Loh, FSC

1915 - 2001 CJC Principal: 1975 - 1979 A Nurturing Educator

Bro Patrick Loh, the founding principal of Catholic Junior College, was a nurturing educator who cared for his students, particularly the weaker learners. Born on 19 August 1915 in Singapore, he took his solemn vows at age 16 and strove to live a meaningful religious life, rooted in his beliefs and mission.

Bro Patrick placed great emphasis in developing people in all aspects. A strong

JOSEPH

Patron: Brother Joseph Kiely TMLH Attribute: Discernment

Brother Joseph Patrick James Kiely

1933 - 2008 CJC Principal: 1979 - 1987 A Discerning Servant-Leader

Bro Joseph Kiely, one of the pioneering principals of Catholic Junior College, was born in Ireland in 1933. Initially headed for Papua New Guinea, Bro Joseph’s stopover in Singapore in 1954 lasted 25 years and soon became permanent as he rose to become the principal of three schools including CJC.

A discerning principal, Bro Joseph was steadfast in teaching students to distinguish good from evil, truth from falsehood. He was a deep thinker who pushed for innovation in education, equipping the

believer in integrity, he advocated fair-play in sports. The Singapore Government made him a Justice of Peace in 1978 for his contributions to Education. Bro Patrick believed each student to be unique and must be nurtured in a close-knit community akin to a family.

House Shield

The Patrick house shield features the Pelican, a symbol of love and sacrifice, calling upon its members to look beyond themselves and grow as compassionate leaders. The pelican’s red-tipped wings represent the desire to grow and serve with compassion and embody the seven attributes of TMLH. The three drops of blood offered by the parent to her young symbolise love and sacrifice, while the colour red symbolises love and reflects the selflessness of members of the house and their commitment to actively nurture others.

Drawing on the nurturing attributes of their House Patron, Bro Patrick Loh, members are called to be dedicated and caring enablers of others in their journey of growth.

college with the latest facilities and technology while ensuring it remained a caring and conducive learning environment.

House Shield

The Joseph house shield features the owl, a symbol of wisdom and discernment, that calls upon its members to grow through continuous learning and reflection and serve as bearers of truth for others. The green-tipped wings represent growth in wisdom and discernment and embody the seven attributes of TMLH. The compass, a navigation tool, represents how members stand guided by the truth in their decisions and actions, and remain steadfast in their mission to lead and serve while the colour green symbolises growth in wisdom and discernment.

Just as their House Patron, Bro Joseph, exercised good judgement and thinking, so are Joseph House members exhorted to be wise as they strive for success and excellence.

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ALBERT

Patron: Brother Albert Proulx TMLH Attribute: Resilience

Brother Joseph Louis Armand Proulx (Albert Proulx)

1918 - 1977 Member of CJC School Management Committee: 1975 - 1976 A Resilient Developer

Bro Albert Proulx is principally known for his work at Montfort School and Boys Town for which he was conferred the Meritorious Service Award by the Singapore Government. Born in Quebec, Canada, in 1918, Bro Albert always yearned to serve in communities outside his home country and came to Singapore in 1948.

A selfless man, he sought to serve all students and staff under his care with love and

MICHAEL

Patron: Archbishop Michael Olcomendy TMLH Attribute: Initiative

Archbishop Michael Olcomendy

1901 - 1977 President of Catholic Junior College: 1975 - 1977 A Visionary Trailblazer

Archbishop Michael Olcomendy was the first archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore who helped with the founding of Catholic Junior College. He was the president of the College’s first Board of Governors in 1975. Born in France in 1901, Archbishop Michael was ordained a priest on 29 May 1926 and left soon thereafter for Malaya to do missionary work.

He provided leadership and strength during the Japanese Occupation, then established the church as a responsible body that

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dedication, despite poor health. His dedication in serving all the students and staff under his care was second to none. Bro Albert was described as a patient, kind and gentle man who was both resilient and nurturing.

House Shield

The Albert house shield features the eagle, a symbol of strength, that calls upon its members to be resilient in the face of adversity and serve as pillars of strength for others. The gold-tipped wings represent excellence in learning and living and embody the seven attributes of TMLH. The sword is a symbol of strength and courage and reflects the aspiration of members to face challenges courageously and emerge as persons of fortitude. The colour yellow symbolises hope and optimism.

In the same way that their House Patron, Bro Albert, overcame adversity with resilience, members are urged to continue with his spirit of persistence and courage in order to gain victory.

contributed to social stability and progress during Singapore’s early days of nation building. He had the initiative and foresight to establish churches, schools, societies and guilds and strove always to be at the service of his people.

House Shield

The Michael house shield features the cardinal, a symbol of initiative and proactiveness, that calls upon its members to display initiative in seizing opportunities and forging new paths to lead and serve. The orange-tipped wings represent enthusiasm in seizing new opportunities and embodying the seven attributes of TMLH. The crozier is a staff a bishop holds to symbolize his authority in church and represents how members emulate their patron in pursuing excellence in Truth and Love in both learning and living. The colour orange symbolises enthusiasm and proactiveness.

In the footsteps of their house Patron, Archbishop Michael, who was a pioneer of education for the betterment of persons and society, members are strongly encouraged to take the initiative to blaze new trails for the good of others.

We Rejoice To

Text by Stephanie Cheng (2T06) & Clare Lai (1T33)

Proclaim And Uphold Our House Captains on their House Shields and Patrons

Pride was an understatement.

During this year’s Commencement C e re m o n y, a s a d re n a l i n e fuelled Michael House-Captain, Jeremiah Tay (2T28), strode into the auditorium alongside the other House Captains, he was overwhelmed with fulfilment.

Looking up at the new House flag, he was reminded of the immense effort put into this project by both students and teachers alike. Being able to watch all the hard work bear fruit filled him with gratitude for this opportunity.

Every House flag represents a core leadership attribute: ‘Nurturing’ for Patrick, ‘Discernment’ for Joseph, ‘Initiative’ for Michael and ‘Resilience’ for Albert. Our House Patrons themselves were four founding fathers of CJC, the building blocks of a strong support system which

every CJCian experiences. While their ideas could have been products of that time, the strength and spirit of our House Patrons’ message about ‘Home’ and ‘Family’ still resonate with generations of CJCians today.

Having had a House system back in her secondary school, Patrick House ViceCaptain, Amanda Lim (2T05), always found herself relying on her House to feel a sense of belonging to the school. She affirms that a sense of belonging has the potential to motivate students. With the introduction of CJC’s House Patrons, Amanda hopes, “CJCians will embody a sense of identity to the school, with the motto being something they can regard highly.”

Likewise, for Joseph House Captain, Lettitia Quek (2T22), the House Patrons act as figures of encouragement to CJCians, as they collectively work towards their goals.

She reflects, “I hope that the introduction of the House Patrons will foster greater camaraderie among students, drawing them together as one family and inspiring them to push their boundaries.”

Besides the attributes they represent, the House Patrons themselves too serve as role models for many students, especially for Albert House Captain, Beckham Wee (2T27). He shares, “I have most definitely, and unbiasedly, been inspired by Albert Proulx, who has demonstrated resilience managing the Boy’s Home, arguably one of the rowdiest crowds to handle. But through it all, he persevered, in hopes of guiding them down the right path. I aspire to be like him as well.”

So it appears that the introduction of the House Patrons will help pave the way for more positive outcomes — making CJC a more cohesive community that supports one another through thick and thin. Being the batch that first implemented the House Patrons, Joseph House Vice-Captain, Samuel Sim (2T02), feels a deep sense of responsibility to pass on this legacy. “I hope future batches of Sports Leaders will continually strive to improve the House in tandem with the values that their Patrons embody,” he said. After all, this is merely the beginning.

The House Captains and Leaders with His Grace Archbishop William Goh

The House Captains taking a commemorative photo with their new House flags

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The Heirs Of A Glorious Kingdom:

Commencement Ceremony 2018

His Grace Archbishop William Goh blessing the House Shields

Text by Amanda Pei (2T27), Elizabeth Tan (2T27) & Edrina Risson (2T29) On 23 February 2018, CJC unveiled its new House Shields, introduced the House Patrons and welcomed a larger JC1 cohort. “The House Shields and Patrons are important in helping students find inspiration and direction,” His Grace Archbishop William Goh, the Guest of Honor for the Ceremony, commented when asked about his thoughts on the initiative. “I think that it is important for students who come here to know that the College wants them to be leaders of tomorrow, ones who have a heart for service.”

During the ceremony, His Grace blessed the House Shields, and underscored their value in guiding the College. “The Patrons are the saints of your College who have led by example, each with distinct contributions.

These saints embody values that can serve to inspire students in their own paths.”

One of the central segments of the ceremony was a sight to behold, as the JC2 seniors pinned the College pin onto the collar of the new JC1s. Spirits were high in this significant moment, as the JC1s were formally inducted into the CJC community.

A sense of pride rippled through the JC1s—

His Grace Archbishop William Goh lighting the College candle

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as new CJCians, they now had a crucial role of upholding the values of the House Patrons and to carry on the legacy of the House Shields.

Commencement Ceremony 2018 immortalises an important moment in the CJC Experience. As Archbishop William Goh aptly puts it, “A shield protects, defends and help us move forward.” With this new beginning, may the new House Shields take CJC to greater heights as CJCians continue to live in the spirit of the House Patrons.

Wide smiles on JC2s’ faces while pinning the collar pin onto the collar of the new JC1s

His Grace Archbishop William Goh together with the liturgical ministers after Commencement Ceremony

Our

Father Leslie Raj lighting the community candle at Commencement Ceremony 2017

Spiritual Pillars Text by Franklin Angela (2T21)

Father Leslie Raj leading in prayer at the JC2 Examination Mass 2015

Father Gregory Tan SJ at CJC Graduation Day 2017

One distinct feature of CJC is the Catholic ethos incorporated into our regular school life. This unique approach is anchored by the central figure of our College chaplain; Father Leslie Raj has just left his position at CJC in 2017 after 10 years of service, and has been replaced by a friendly face now familiar to us: Father Gregory Tan SJ. Father Leslie Raj was a learned man but never flaunted his knowledge. He was mild in speech and manner, balancing gentleness and the firmness of a parent.

Despite his health issues, he always did his best to put others before himself. Father Leslie Raj cared deeply for both CJC staff and students. During his tenure as College Chaplain, he played a key advisory role in developing some of the College’s key programmes including the Ignite approach to Teaching & Learning.

Taking over the mantle of College chaplain, Father Gregory Tan SJ is a sunny and patient person, who constantly encourages students with his ever-smiling personality, and comforts their anxieties.

Our College chaplains are members of the Society of Jesus, known as Jesuits, which originated in sixteenth-century Spain. The signature spirituality of Jesuits is to “find God in all things” and dedicate themselves to the greater good of all people from all faiths and cultures.

An indispensable part of every College celebration, our College chaplain ensures precision in liturgy and symbols, and is responsible for the Prayers for Light each week. Father Leslie Raj was heavily involved in the design and meaning behind the refurbished College crest, helping articulate what it means to be a Thinker with a Mission and Leader with a Heart. Father Gregory Tan

SJ was central to this year’s Lenten project in its planning stages.

In a personal recount of her experience with Father Gregory Tan SJ, Cristobal Ann MaiLee (2T21) shared a glimpse of the patient and forgiving side of our College chaplain whenever she stumbled during Mass. Our teachers are equally enriched - Mr Eugene Yeow shared that Father Leslie Raj “was all that I needed him to be, a source of hope and comfort, a mirror of understanding and gentleness, and most of all a friend.”

Our College chaplains’ humanity and courage are what we admire, but it is their sense of God, faithfully dedicating themselves to His love and purpose, that truly inspires. As former CJCians, their actions and contributions epitomise what it means to be Thinkers with a Mission, Leaders with a Heart.

Father Gregory Tan SJ with the JC1s at the Retreat 2018

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Where has Virtuosity in CJC gone?:

Our CJC Sculptures Text by Jonathan Seah (2T04)

They are visible to the naked eye, hiding in plain sight in places that most of us often frequent in our CJC campus. Yet, why is it that so few of us spare them some time to appreciate their beauty and the profound meanings they connote?

“I wouldn’t go find out about them due to the lack of time.” Samuel Lim’s (2T04) simple statement aptly captures the crux of the matter — despite CJC’s rich cultural and religious background, most of us know little about the art pieces in our college.

The sculpture struck me – her soulless eyes staring into the clear blue sky, desiring for unattainable freedom. Thick chains gagged her, encircling her body like a snake. The chains twist and contort, forming manacles around her wrists.

I met the Woman of ‘98 (Aung San Suu Kyi) (1998) beside the canteen while journeying to discover the different sculptures of CJC.

“There is little publicity about the sculptures in CJC. I feel many of us don’t see any value in being curious about them.” Sean Koh (2T04) gives me further insight into how the indifference towards art in CJC could stem from a lack of education about the history

Brother Joseph McNally (1923-2002), a highly regarded sculptor, created this statue to honour Aung San Suu Kyi’s unwavering commitment to liberate Myanmar from the brutal dictatorship of U Ne Win. Brother McNally sculpted Woman of ‘98 as an example of the inhumanity of our times.

“The chains represent the constraints and lack of freedom she experienced during fifteen years of house arrest. So few of you students know this,” said Mrs Sng Mee Lian.

CJC students and Lord of Heaven and Earth

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Woman of ‘98 (Aung San Suu Kyi) in our CJC canteen

of these sculptures. Despite this, learning more about these sculptures may give us an opportunity to reflect on the place of art in our lives.

The lobby of the Performing Arts Centre was quiet save for the echoing of my footsteps.

A Christ-like figure gazed down at me with a featureless face. The Lord Of Heaven and Earth (2001) by Brother McNally is a physical manifestation of his religious conviction.

Without capturing any physical qualities of Christ, Brother McNally meant for this Modernist sculpture to represent Christ’s sacrifice to humanity.

To view these pieces of art as meaningless or as mere adornments would be myopic.

In addition to its aesthetic value, Woman of ‘98 reminds us of courageous women who fought for just causes and were willing to sacrifice their freedom and even their lives.

Lord of Heaven and Earth reminds us that God is always with us. Each day, we CJCians go from point A to B in our campus with purpose. Perhaps a little more attention spent would grant us access to a plethora of history and wisdom residing in these sculptures.

Passing Down the

The 2014 Vietnam batch constructing the wall

Light of Service Text by Seow Hui Qin (2T02)

Some OSLP Vietnam members smiling with the children

Preparations were tough. As deadlines drew closer, the current batch of Overseas Service Learning Programme (OSLP) students had many ideas but found themselves lost, unsure of what was most helpful for their overseas beneficiaries.

They knew who the beneficiaries were, but having not met them, it was difficult to fully understand their needs. Questions about the people they would serve and the project itself flooded their minds.

The 2017 Vietnam batch working beside the same wall

drawings.” In fact, the 2015 batch also tiled the once uneven classroom floor.

Participants of last year’s OSLP felt the same way too – motivated, empowered even – when gazing at the wall constructed by the previous batch to prevent children from slipping into a nearby stream. The seniors were able to build such a solid wall, capable of resisting harsh sunlight and heavy torrents, while providing the safety that the children needed. This starkly contrasts the pile of dust and stones that first stood where the wall was, making them realise just how much one can do with an open and willing heart, and a mind set to make a difference.

Fortunately, aid arrived in the form of the seniors. The seniors who participated in OSLP a year before shared the wisdom they had gleaned from their trips. The college’s OSLP is a single long-running project, with some CJCians returning to the same overseas beneficiaries each year to build on what previous generations had done.

This legacy is very much tangible.

Jasmine Low, a senior from the Class of 2016 explained, “The whole project was closely related to what our seniors had done. In 2014, they painted the classroom walls white and we beautified them with

Alongside their batchmates, friends whom they had spent their mornings, afternoons and nights with, no task was too exhausting or daunting. And to know that many CJCians had also felt the same way gave the team even more energy to push on.

Since 1999, CJC’s OSLP has aimed to mould generations of CJCians to become better servant leaders. This is truly a legacy of service and servant leadership: knowing that with a heart large enough and friends willing to support one another, the capability to impact many people does exist. This learning point remains the same for many batches of CJCians who have embarked on the OSLP journey.

OSLP Interact members teaching the children

Members of OSLP Vietnam giving the primary school a fresh coat of yellow paint

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Bound for

Challenge!

Text by Amanda Pei (2T27)

Under the rays of the setting sun, Clarissa Foo (2T27) took one last step and finally reached the summit of Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong’s highest mountain. Hiking along the route of Tai Mo Shan’s Maclehose trail was one of the many activities that Clarissa and the team of CJCians engaged in during the Outward Bound Singapore Global Leadership Programme (Overseas).

The group of 20 students, accompanied by two teacher chaperones, embarked on what would be the most challenging 11 days of their December holidays. Aside from hiking, the team operated a sailboat – The Spirit – themselves. For many, it was their first time operating a sailboat. “The steps involved can be quite confusing – it was easy to lose track of what to do next,” Irene Wong (2T27) recalled. “Whenever there was a problem, we had to figure it out ourselves.”

Back in Singapore, the challenges were not any easier. For the CJC team in the Outward Bound Singapore Local Programme, it was nine days away from home for them and they too had their fair share of land and aqua expeditions. The first four days were spent sailing to places around Singapore, such as Changi, from the base camp in Pulau Ubin.

The remaining four were spent trekking around Pulau Ubin, with a bag weighing nearly 30 kg. “Just before the trek, I fell

Participants of OBS(Local) wearing smiles on their faces after an exciting camp

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Watch 1 of OBS(overseas) getting ready to operate the Spirit sailboat

down and scraped my knees badly,” Nivetha (1T13) remembers. “Even though I was in pain, I still had to carry the bag and trek with the others.”

It is precisely because of these challenging experiences that Outward Bound Singapore is recognised for catalysing personal development in young people. Like the many generations of CJCians before them, Irene and Nivetha learnt what it meant to persevere even if the end did not seem in sight, and to take on a personal stake in others’ well-being. Irene fondly recalls her instructor reminding them of the saying: ‘It always seems impossible until it is done.’

What Irene and Nivetha left behind in Hong Kong and Pulau Ubin was the blood, sweat, and tears from undergoing such a rugged programme – as well as a continued legacy of resilience and care for future CJCians to walk in.

Tai Mo Shan - the highest mountain in Hong Kong

Attached to

Attachment Text by Lim Bi Hui (2T02)

This generation: Motivated. Dedicated. Confident.

Waking up early, rubbing shoulders with many other office workers on public transport. Wanting to end their year purposefully and be involved in something outside of their rigorous academic lives. Just like the generations of seniors before them, these CJCians saw value in exploring the working world and signed up for the Work Attachment and Shadowing Programme (WASP) conducted at the end of 2017.

After completing an internship at the Ministry of Manpower, Zane Siak (2T02) told a compelling recount of his experience.

Zane was first assigned to the Customer Responsiveness Department (CRD) which usually takes charge of the most complicated enquiries. There, he observed how his fellow colleagues exemplified professionalism to the best of their abilities through consistency, resilience and most importantly, a good attitude in their service. “It was an inspiration to watch them do their work with such dedication,” he reflected.

Wide smiles to commemorate a meaningful experience!

Having never experienced anything quite like this, Edrina Risson (2T29) was anxious and feverishly excited when they stepped into an established law firm where an alumnus, Mr Simon Tan, was the director. Despite the serious work environment, she was treated with much hospitality during her work attachment. The kindness and patience she received from a CJC alumnus, a distinct hallmark of CJC, was deeply imprinted in her mind.

Similarly, Amrita Sidhu (2T19) noted Mr Simon Tan’s passion and enthusiasm during the attachment and was greatly inspired. “To a large extent, it gave me a sense of direction and goal in life to work towards, seeing how diligent my colleagues were.”

Whether it was the example set by fellow colleagues or CJC alumni, it is clear that WASP served its purpose of immersing our CJCians in the workplace and broadening their experience of the world.

Edrina at her desk: Slightly nervous. Highly focused.

Amrita hard at work: Head bowed in deep concentration

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Historical Moments, Continued Amazement:

Harvard Model Congress Asia 2018

CJC delegate Zane Siak (2T02) interacting with members of the EU Committee

Text by Nadiah Hisham (2T01)

As the cacophony of voices evoked a sense of confidence from seemingly everyone else in the room but her, Miriam Saguda (2T01) was inundated by the unfamiliarity of her surroundings. However, despite the challenges faced, she thought of nothing but positive memories. “I might even have made a change in the United Nations,” recalled Miriam as she reminisced about her experience at the Harvard Model Congress Asia 2018 (HMCA).

Miriam, along with 15 other students, represented CJC at the HMCA that took place on 4-8 January 2018 at the Hong Kong University. This prestigious global conference not only provided opportunities for the delegates to debate political, social and economic issues that concern the world today, but also a chance to meet and interact with people of different ages, races and religions from all around the world. HMCA 2018 was a window to the world, and the ability to make even a modicum of change in society inspired and motivated the CJC delegates to give their utmost best throughout the five days.

It is therefore no surprise that CJC obtained five Honorable Mentions for the attitude and performance of Miriam Saguda (2T01), and her team members Thomas Yang (2T17), Zane

Siak (2T02), Lee Shu Ping (2T02), and Raksana Ayub (2T20). In addition, Shaun Song (2T04) and Vivek Thomas (2T10) were awarded with the title of Best Delegate for their work in the Historical Committee and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) respectively.

For Shaun and Vivek, the importance of teamwork and leadership was a recurring theme as they told their story of what it was like at the HMCA. “It was the opportunity to work together with the rest of the committee to pass resolutions that made all the hours spent on rigorous training and research worth it,” Shaun reflects. With similar sentiments, Vivek recalled how each team member had their own strengths, and how the leader pooled their different skill sets together to achieve the team’s ultimate goal.

The HMCA nurtures in students a passion to make a change in their community, reflecting and contributing to the legacy of CJCians becoming Thinkers with a Mission, and Leaders with a Heart.

CJC delegates posing for a photo at the HMCA

Award Winners holding their certificates

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The Day Of The

Text by Nicole Teo (2T24)

A Level Results

On 23 February 2018, CJC’s Class of 2017 came back to Catholic Junior College, mentally prepared to receive their GCE ‘A’ Level results.

The auditorium in CJC was bustling with loud conversations, many catching up having not seen their ex-classmates for a few months. As the ceremony began, the noise died down, and feelings of trepidation started to rise.

Our Principal, Mrs Phyllis Lim, began with the presentation slides of those who did exceptionally well, and the general performance of the cohort. With every slide, the excitement from the crowd grew, with cheers from jubilant classes and individuals who had performed well. Together, CJC’s Class of 2017 achieved commendable performance.

Top scorers Timothy Wong (2T16), Inez Yong (2T02), Sean Gabriel (2T01), Derrick Tan (2T01) and Ian Chan (2T01) gave speeches about how they managed to do so well, giving inspiration and motivation to both their schoolmates and their juniors, emphasising that results do not define the measure of success of a person. This raised cheers from the crowd, as many were undoubtedly moved by their words.

It was a day of celebration at the end of an eventful journey, as our Class of 2017 received the certificate that they worked so hard for through their time in CJC. Here, we catch up with three of our top-scorers to learn more about what motivated them.

Inez Yong

Inez

Inez Yong (2T02) is extremely passionate about Geography and Literature. She was an extremely hardworking student who placed a lot of emphasis on her schoolwork, and at the same time, also managed to maintain her friendships between her family and friends.

What was your motivation to study hard for the levels?

What motivated me was that I really liked Geography as a subject. I took Geography without knowing I would like it so much, and I actually developed a passion for it.

This was all the doing of my HT, Ms Tan Wei Jun. Not only did she teach the subject well, but she was also there for me like a friend would be. She listened to my problems, be it with regards to the subject itself, or in my daily life. She was always there for me and I really appreciate her.

So do you want to pursue Geography in the future?

Yes, I am strongly considering pursuing Geography in the future, even though I do have other options in mind. If I were to pursue Geography, I would like to be a teacher after being inspired by my HT. The way she talked about and explained the subject was so intricate and extremely beautiful. I really enjoyed her lessons, even though Geography is a content-heavy subject, and I really don’t have any regrets taking it. I hope that if I am a teacher in the future, I will be able to ignite that same passion in my students.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in CJ? The biggest lesson I learnt is that grades are not the only thing that matter. Even though I’m extremely happy to have done well, I really think the friends you make here are important. You should enjoy every moment in CJC and don’t constantly isolate yourself and just mug. I feel like JC is so much more than grades. Although they are important, don’t let it define you.

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Timothy Timothy Wong (2T16) was one of the outstanding students for the 2017 GCE ‘A’ Level Examinations. He was an extremely well-rounded student and managed to find a healthy balance between his studies and CCA commitments. Despite the setbacks he faced throughout his ‘A’ Level journey, he managed to keep sight of the bigger picture, that doing well would be a source of inspiration for those who needed it.

What was your motivation? What advice do you have for your juniors?

I think that achieving 90 rank points was my general goal as it definitely helps to open up my options for university. I generally like to excel in life and do the best I can.

The acknowledgement from my friends and family really helped motivate me to do well.

My advice is to have fun in JC. It is definitely a very fast, but fun two years. There’s nothing like it anymore. Just have fun, but do study as well.

How did you balance your studies with family commitments and leisure?

Family-wise, I had dinner with my family as long as I was not in school. For leisure, I had my CCA, Football. For studies, I studied for a short while at night. In school, when I had free time, I went to the library to study. Do listen and focus a lot in class, and do not skip lectures.

What was the toughest challenge that you faced to maintain your consistently good results? How did you overcome it?

I definitely wanted to give up. I asked myself, “What am I studying for?” I did not even know what course I wanted to be in. What if the course I wanted to be in does not need good grades? What if it is all pointless?

For me, it was 90 rank points or nothing. I felt very pressured as my Geography and Economics results were leaning towards Bs. I felt that at any point I could slip up, and I felt uncertain. However, you have to tell yourself to do it and push yourself. I prayed a lot and it made me see the bigger picture — I can do well to make people happy and be a source of inspiration for people who need it.

Sean

Sean Gabriel (2T01) was an extremely determined and resilient student who was excellent in all aspects. He took up opportunities to learn outside the classroom and bounced back from challenges.

What was your biggest motivation?

I think it was when I became House Captain in JC1, and a lot of people started looking to me more for direction and advice. I felt like I had to be like a role model. It only increased the pressure from the teachers who wanted me to do very well. I guess my motivation was all that I didn’t want to let anyone down. I didn’t want to fail again but do the best that I possibly could.

Sean Rene Gabriel

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My class and my super close friend, Ashwin, really helped me a lot. He was really there for me and helped me a lot and not just him but my class as well. There was a healthy competition in my class and it drove all of us to do well. Towards the end of the year, it really wasn’t that bad as we all really buckled down and studied really hard.

Timothy Wong

How did you balance your responsibilities as a House Captain and academic life?

I did feel like giving up some of the time. But then I’d have my tutors and the PE teachers hounding me for work. And a lot of the time PE was stressful as well, especially having to lead during the IPPT period. I had to try to stay as fit as possible because I can’t fake a push up being in front. My Economics tutor once told me that “There’s always a method to the madness”. I feel this was a significant quote that really helped push me to the end.

What is one advice you would give to your juniors?

Whatever you are doing, just give it your 100%, especially for the CCA leaders. There will be a lot of times when you feel like giving up, but just keep going.

Aspire to Inspire

Text by Lim Howie (2T04)

“I didn’t think I impressed the panel all that much,” Ms Cara Chew, Level Head (General Paper), said humbly.

She conducts her lessons referencing real-world applications of complex concepts, ensuring that General Paper (GP) issues are relevant to her students. To best motivate them, she tries her best to personalise the learning for each individual. These are some of the many reasons why she won the Inspiring Teacher of English Award (ITEA) 2017. The award is presented by the Speak Good English Movement, in collaboration with The Straits Times, and supported by the Ministry of Education. It recognizes teachers who are role models of good spoken and written English, and who choose teaching methods appropriate and engaging to every student’s needs.

Ms Chew is not the first CJC teacher to earn the award. She is one of many CJC teachers who have earned national recognition, alongside the likes of Mrs Sng Mee Lian, Ms Laureen Toh and Mr Marc Kenji Lim, who were presented with the ITEA in 2010, 2013, and 2015 respectively.

Why are so many teachers in CJC clinching the award? Ms Chew feels it is due to the students. “No matter how bad their day is, they do their best at work, and that to me is very inspiring,” she said, being particularly thankful for her batch of students last year. She also feels thankful for the CJC English Department, as well as the

Ms Cara Chew receiving the award.

From left: Mrs Phyllis Lim, Ms Cara Chew, Dr Janil Puthucheary, and Mr Goh Eck Kheng

college for nominating and supporting her, adding that her colleagues were extremely encouraging and affirming. She notes that the CJC English Department is full of teachers who are passionate about their discipline and the English language. Such a confluence of factors have come together to make teachers from CJC’s English Department natural nominees of the ITEA. Ms Cara Chew is the latest on a long list of CJC teachers who have been recognised nationally, and she certainly will not be the last.

Ms Cara Chew in action, facilitating a group discussion

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AYE PHYU THANT (2T14)

JONATHAN TAY (2T18)

AYE PHYU THANT (2T14)

AYE PHYU THANT (2T14)

AYE PHYU THANT (2T14)

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MRS LEE-XU YIFANG JONATHAN TAY (2T18)

TOK NIMOE (2T11)

JONATHAN TAY (2T18)

JONATHAN TAY (2T18)

Values. It is the only thing that remains constant in a community that embraces change. CJC is no different, for our values of Truth and Love create an interconnection of students across time. The college pin, in the form of a flame, is a tangible manifestation of our very values. The act of a JC2 student pinning the flame on his or her junior is symbolic as it represents the passing on of the legacy of what it means to be a student in CJC. It drives us to strive during moments of hardship, be it from the academic rigour or tireless commitment to our co-curricular activities, moulding us into Thinkers with a Mission and Leaders with a Heart. . Each batch of students that enroll in our college is an opportunity for that legacy to expand, as collectively, we build generations in Truth and Love. - Nadiah Hisham (2T01)

Building our Legacy

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