Ksandra Ng

My journey in Juying started like no other.

After graduating from my alma mater with an aggregate score of 208, I decided to choose Juying Secondary School as my first choice because of what Mr Seet Tiat Hee, the school principal, mentioned when he was at my primary school for a talk. He said, "If you don't like to study, Juying will not be the right school for you" and with those very words, I was certain that Juying would be a good choice for me.

Another factor that I took into consideration when I chose the school was the school environment. When I first visited Juying Secondary School during its Open House, I was enticed by the facilities it offered and the friendliness of the seniors and teachers. They made me feel welcomed instantly and were hospitable.

My decision to study at Juying Secondary School was right. At Juying Secondary School, a myriad of activities were planned for the students. I was extremely fortunate to participate in the 14th Singapore-Hong Kong Exchange Programme when I was in Secondary Two. Through that experience, I learnt how to be adaptable to new surroundings and situations. It had also given me insights into the Hong Kong culture and localised lifestyle.

Another eye-opening experience was the Overseas Values-In-Action Trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, when I was in Secondary Three. My classmates and I had the privilege to visit a local orphanage and we interacted with the orphans.

The trip had provided me with an enlightenment that went beyond the classroom lessons. It was genuinely an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.

Besides offering engaging activities, the school provides a well-equipped environment to sustain students’ learning. An example would be how the Science laboratories are fitted with a large variety of apparatus that allow students to carry out enriching Science practical sessions. There are also rooms with iPads and Macs that can make lessons more engaging.

In Juying Secondary School, there are also many affable teachers. During the times when I encountered numerous setbacks, I lost sight of my goals. Fortunately, Ms Yang Wen Qing, my Form Teacher, was there for me. She took time out from her hectic schedule and lent me a listening ear. With her constant encouragement and unwavering support, I gradually got back on my feet and was motivated to make the best out of every day.

Mr Kelvin Teo, my Physics teacher, is also another one of my favourite teachers. During times of trouble, I was able to confide in him. I greatly admire how he was able to talk to me patiently in spite of his busy schedule. Apart from this, I also always look forward to his lessons as I find them both interesting and engaging. I would always find myself thoroughly engrossed in his lessons.

Another remarkable teacher I met in Juying Secondary School would be Mr Thomas Ong, my A Mathematics teacher. He is a knowledgeable and experienced teacher who not only is passionate about teaching, but is also patient with his students. He would always encourage students to ask questions when in doubt. His lessons had made me more confident in answering challenging questions and I feel blessed to have come across such an amazing teacher like Mr Thomas Ong.

As a member of the English Literary Drama and Debate Society (ELDDS), I was able to develop my passion through the many platforms created for us. The CCA has given me a plethora of opportunities to develop myself into a competent speaker. This year, the team took part in its first Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) showcase and I was more than proud to say we exceeded our expectations and did extremely well. Through the CCA, I was able to make new friends with the same interests and form meaningful friendships. I am blessed to have a professional instructor to guide us and enhance our acting skills. I also have a dedicated bunch of teachers who would seek new opportunities and competitions for the team to grow.

All in all, I would describe my four years in Juying Secondary School as a fun-filled and enjoyable journey and I have never regretted choosing the school as my first choice.