cyberspace__the.victorian

Relocation of blog

2006-07-02T11:59:00.000+08:00

Hey dearest friends/visitors,

Kindly note that silvernotez.blogspot.com has permantly been shifted to http://silvernotez.com.

Kindly update your links will ya?

Thanks for dropping by for the past one year, and do continue to visit.
System will be upgraded and an online IT-troubleshooting service will be set up in the new blog.

Slack

2006-06-23T14:21:00.000+08:00

Damn, only 3 days left to exams. I'm still playing DOTA! Crap, this is so bad.

Start mugging now. Or never.

Still, I'm quite disappointed with some of my Secondary Threes. Thanks to them, now I have to get myself involved next week. Mobilisation time.

I'm so gonna be fat soon, eating and eating over the holidays, not much exercising.

Poof... mug.

Summing them up

2006-06-22T19:04:00.000+08:00

Best holiday ever. Totally had my own freedom of time to enjoy life since the start of school term nearly 6 months ago. Been so slack. Despite having to go back frequently for Piano rehearsals, which eventually led to the many KFC visits with fellow ensembians, I took the chance to go back to VS so frequently, I kind of felt as though I was a VSrian once again.

All the times I tried to study with the Sec 4s but failed, the times where everyone got distracted and ended up playing soccer. The guitar, preparation for the camp, the carrom games, the BBQ or rather specifically the IMPAP (something to do with Monitors, Prefects and Peer Leaders), the times where the Sec 4s composed their parting song in the MC room. Could see that it would really be very hard for them all to part with VS during graduation.

Further back, I was still enjoying myself, watching the world cup, meeting up with friends to watch the soccer match between Singapore and Malaysia. Was suppossed to try to get the whole class down, but instead only 3 people turned up. Haha.

Also the wonderful times which Secondary 4D 2005 peeps met up again for class party and a game of soccer and cards. Those were the days...

And way back would be the soccer finals, which got us rather emotional. It did, however, earned us all a fullday.

It's time to wake up from dreamland to reality. Mid Years. Council Work. Senior Dinner and Dance. Project Work. Piano Concert.

More and more Camps

2006-06-22T18:12:00.000+08:00

Just been back from 5 days camp.

30 hr Famine camp was a camp in which campers go through 30 hours without food, and experience to be part of the poor children in developing countries. Even CNA was around to video.

As such, campers are put into a situation where they form tribes or families, and have to try to do jobs, earn money, buy things such as tables, chairs, cardboard, paper bags to build their 'house' in which they will spend the night.

Hence the black market, government stalls, job stations (bean picking, bean sorting, scavanging, crane folding, and apparantly the most easy earning job; prostitution).

I acted as one of the station masters, acting as a police (or rather, a corrupted police), whose role is to catch people who break the law. We police have had much fun going on the rounds to fine money for whatever stupid reasons we could think of, such as losing your children, crossing over the barriers, prostituting your child, and the most memorable ones would be raiding the prostitution center as well as the black market. But still, extorting money from people (even your seniors) is not an easy task.

Following which, I immediately headed over to Hozefa's place to finalise the IT Club Camp @ VS. Day 1 was especially great! It was the Board of Advisors' Leadership Training Day, in which we planned special activities to train our Sec 1-3s. As the advisor in charge, I was given the autonomy of running the schedule, which brought back many wonderful memories of running camps.

In the afternoon, we headed over to Ubin for a leadership training seminar, and campers went through a series of activities such as field cooking by the sea. Luckily I already had my lunch at Ubin Jetty; as they had to eat without utensils, and noodles cooked with bloody-looking sardine, dead leaves. From the many different activities, the most memorable one would be climbing up the knoll. Besides the exhilarating view of the whole of ubin / Singapore 7pm in the evening, the interesting part would be decending that hill in the dark. It was indeed an experience worth a lifetime.

On a sidenote, Day 2 was gay. Had to go back to school twice for lessons. But the crash course for physics was great. Chem wasn't a great help, as I haven't prepared my work. Day 3 was Econs, which was also a great help for revision. But still, I'm still far off ready for the exams. After which, rushed off to Esplanade with the other advisors to meet up with the teams, who were halfway through their amazing race.

This camp was also special in which the camp was held concurrently with the handover. It was a rather emotional night for the Sec 4s who are stepping down. Following which the talent night, the juniors proved themselves to be creative and enthusiatic. Well done guys!

Nightwalk was especially frightening compared to other camps at this campus, as we got to use really dark places such as the DNT workshop, and the DNT office, the toilets beside the canteen which was usually locked up, as well as the school field. And juniors were told that they were alone. As the one sharing scary stories, I was really proud of my juniors for not whining despite being really scared during the wait.

Crazy people brings about crazy camps. After the night walk (which lasted from 1am to 5am), we all then played soccer in the dark. Imagine the ball going past you without your knowledge. That was one hell of a game, drawing 3-3, and penalty shootouts, my team lost 2-0.

Camp was great, especially so as it brought back wonderful memories, and most importantly, seeing how your juniors grow and learn. Having gone through 5 days of camp without sleep; tiring but fun!

life in VS's really fun. really miss it. i'll look forward to camps next year. now i'll better start to whack the next 4 days for mid yrs...

If only...

2006-06-12T22:57:00.000+08:00

Sigh...

If only...

If only...

If only...

If only...

If only...

If only...

If only...

If only...

If only...

Windows Vista Beta

2006-06-11T22:55:00.000+08:00

Woah, downloading 7gb of data off the internet is no joke ok.

After the release of Windows Vista BETA version, I was fighting for bandwidth with the Americans to downloaded both the 3gb (32bit) and 4gb (64bit) version. Woah, you can imagine how long it took!

Worse, after downloading, I had to burn the .iso files onto a DVD in order to work. And more time was needed to install. Spent one hell of a day to get it finally set up and running.

But nonetheless, all the waiting was worthwhile to be the first few to experience Windows Vista. Quite cool graphics and colours, as well as many new features. But nonetheless, as a BETA, it still has got to have more improvements, especially the speed. It's so lag that opening Photoshop CS takes 2 mins!

Here is a screenshot of Microsoft Word 2007 on Windows Vista.

So those IT savvy, go get yourself a copy.

Click on images in this post to enlarge.

Monitor's Council Camp 2006

2006-06-06T23:07:00.000+08:00

060606 , six june 2006.

nice date =)

Just got back from MC Camp 2006... rox

Another Two years have just gone past in the twinkle of an eye; Secondary Ones then are now Secondary Threes, taking up the position of running the camp already.

Through this camp, it's really the first time for me to have a chance to see the Secondary Threes in action. It was a privilege to be given this chance to mingle and work with this new batch of upcoming EXCO, and indeed, they have proven to be very plesent people to work with. For the night we stood; cards, tidbits, and basketball/soccer before dawn, all these have proven to be the start of a strong sense of camaraderie which you all will build up during your new term in office.
With people of different personalities to complement one another, it's gonna be amazing to see you all officially put into office soon to bring council to greater heights. And very soon the stepping down of your seniors, my predecessors, the current Secondary Four batch.

This camp has brought back many wonderful memories as a student in VS. Such as joining in their activities, getting to know and mingle with the freshbloods, planning the night walks etc.
Most importantly, being able to relate to the lower secondary monitors about the tough times being a monitor.
Just before nightwalk, I had the chance of hearing out their problems faced, which reminds me of the similar old tough times while in office, and it gives me this sense of achievement of surviving through the four years. It was indeed heartwarming to share experiences and lessons learnt with these freshcomers, who are more than willing to learn.

It also proved successful at the end of the camp to see that most of the monitors have truely enjoyed the camp and have learnt valuable lessons. Especially the night walk which boosted much of their confidence (hope you guys are not afraid of walking around alone at night!) And best of all, everyone (except two) plans to run for EXCO. Really hope to see some of these lower secondary potentials into office in the next couple of years.

Ultimately, three cheers for my Secondary Threes juniors for putting this camp up. A job well done for protraying yourselves all worthy to be stepping up as EXCO. And to my Sec Fours, though I couldn't really feel your presence during camp at all (Despite the fact that you guys should be been around to observe), all the best to your forthcoming examinations.

Oh ya btw, MC Camp 2006 photos can be viewed here!

Sometimes, I wonder why time is just so cruel. It only allows a one way direction, and even worse, it is not within much control of man, and it does not give you a choice. If only someone could invent a time machine, i'll gladly shift back and stay on forever as a 15-year-old teenager. I'll gladly stay on in VS, go through such camps forever. Perhaps, Mr. Oh has gotton himself one, to be able to stay 15 years old till date.

An inconvenient truth

2006-06-03T22:26:00.000+08:00

Eloquently weaves the science of global warming with Al Gore’s
personal history and lifelong commitment to reversing the effects of global
climate change. A longtime advocate for the environment, Gore presents a wide
array of facts and information in a thoughtful and compelling way. The film is
not a story of despair but rather a rallying cry.

Woah, this is a much watch! Especially the science and environmental enthusiasts. Even the trailer is so captivating!

Watch the trailer

NS Registration

2006-06-01T19:38:00.000+08:00

Everyone, or rather, every male, should receive their letter for registration for NS once they reach 17 and a half years old. Time to login and apply for deferment.

It's so fast man, you never realise how grown up you already are until you see the dark orange letter from MINDEF beaming in your face, with the letter addressing to you as "Mr SURNAME".

I'm not afraid of going through NS. I've always loved camps.

But I'm terrified of the processes into entering NS. The hefty load of stories I've heard about the Medical Questionaire, Medical Checkup, the 3 months of BMTs and the people you meet. Who knows... I'm so not looking forward to these.

If only time would just stop; to take a breather, where nothing deteriorates.

And back to VS.

The Different Events

2006-05-30T13:30:00.000+08:00

Just last Saturday, 27th May 2006...

Firstly, a very big congratulations to Mr. Jonathan Oh, the supposedly always 15-year-old boy, on his holy matrimony. Seems like dear Mr. Oh has finally grown up haha.

Seeing all the VS teachers, old boys, peers and juniors at the church made it seem as though it wasn't even a wedding at all. Even Mr. Ang and his wife were sitting behind us. In fact, it all felt more like a VS gathering instead.

Indeed, it's been an enriching time spent under your guidance.

Since we met when we were doing the IVP Project in Sec 2; the Victorian Challenge 2003, the Leadership Training Camp, Peer Support Board, Sec 3 camps 2004/2005, and most importantly through my upper secondary life in VS.

So many of us even spent the night at your hostel apartment watching movies. And it proves especially so when you are always constantly reminding me how much a busy I am, always seems to be 'running the school'. And you never fail to remember all your students' birthdays!

Thank you for all that you have done! I wish you all the best in your marriage =)

Time flies, it was somewhat about a year ago when Ms Tang also had her wedding. And she already has given birth to little Megan. So when will it be your turn Mr. and Mrs. Oh?

Yesterday...

After a long tedious 4 hours meeting for SDD, Carene, Lubin and I went to Parkway for lunch. Then we ended up window shopping (sigh, girls...) So I ended up walking the whole of Parkway with them.

Following which, I went back to VS. It's just wierd, everytime when I enter the compound, I could feel this familiar aura engulfing me, allowing me to sense the smell of home. Was suppssed to be studying Econs, until Jin Jian and gang saw me and waved to me.

Went over and I started to spend the time there playing carom, guitar, basketball with them, my Sec 3 and 4 juniors.

Subconsciously, I did that from 2pm till 8pm... woah.

How I miss those days in VS... the warm, friendly days where you know most of your peers/juniors/seniors/teachers, who can exchange heartwaming talks with you...

... the days where you can say and do whatever you want without the restriction of presence of other gender...

...the days where you can change in the canteen openly, fully assured that no one from the other gender will be nearby.

...the days such that after a soccer game you can freely pull off your shirt; walk around the room half naked to cool down... Yes, Xuanyi did just that after his basketball game!

those were the days...

e Irony?

2006-05-17T18:47:00.000+08:00

For the past few months, I have reached home at a record of a time not earlier than 8pm everyday. Match supports. yeah.

As usual, today, match supports are on. We had 4 different matches to play. But I had went to RJC at 2pm to attend a forum after settling the match support admin issues in school.

It was supposed to end at 4.30pm and I rush down for soccer match.

Ended late at 5pm instead, and match ended. So I headed for home.

Guess what, I reached home at 6.15pm today, when the sky's still bright, where little children are still out playing.

My mother usually calls me everyday when I am still in school to ask me why I am still not home yet;

Today, she said, "Why are you home so early?!"

That will happen when you returning home late becomes a routine.

Overstretched!

2006-05-13T23:19:00.000+08:00

The one day rest on Friday was certainly welcomed. After a loooooooong day on thursday:
1) 2.4 km run in the morning
2) A Level Chemistry SPA Exam
3) Leading Match support against Hwa Chong at Hwa Chong with limited manpower

Woah... what can be a more tiring day than this?

So after sleeping the whole friday, I'm finally recharged for my weekend activities.

Today was supposed to be iComp course. Only when I reached school was I told that the course was cancelled. grrr...

So Han Teng dragged me along to do some charity work. We went to bring some kids from Jamiyah Children's home to visit the HPB. Yup, it was certainly an enriching trip.

Anyway, happy birthday lawie and jasmine!!!

Tradition disorder!

2006-05-12T22:28:00.000+08:00

In the evening, Terence and I went back to VS to just hang around and soak in the atmosphere. We brought along Carene, Britney, Nikhil and Lubin. We basically walked around and showed them the place. They were very impressed. Very impressed. The girls were like regretting not coming to VS (now we know what they did during the co-ed saga) And guess what they did –

The VS spelling cheer. Again and again, even while walking out.

And they wanted to do it again with the VS boys.

So watch out.

- Quoted from Mansoor S/O Amir's blog

Wow, imagine that!

They were ever so impressed with the VS's strong spirit and camaraderie.

So for the minority out there who do not think highly of VS, do think again.

fatigue; i need more time

2006-05-08T20:56:00.000+08:00

Things are seriously getting out of hand. All, or at least, most of us RECOlas are draining out. Concurrent match supports and SDD are really sapping out the life of us. Mentally and physically. This will really be our most intense period.

To add on to these, concurrently, we've got to balance our PW, of which we have to submit our GPP (Group Project Proposal), EoM (Evaluation of Materials) by like tomorrow? And then our A Level Skill B SPA (Science Practical Assessment) will take place sometime this week too. Mine would be this coming Thurday. Yes, it's A Levels! And it's really tough, especially when I reach home late enough for dinner and sleep.

Teachers, especially my Econs teacher, has been reminding me not to neglect my school work. & I've been feeling real bad not being able to follow up with my work, especially Econs. Weekends would be the only little amount of time to catch up with all the work due at least a week ago.
Tomorrow's Econs test, i don't want to fail. But i have not idea how to start now either.

VJC Interview today. Realised I've got much more to do. I'll really have to work even harder.

Ok, think i've ranted enough. I feel much better now. I will take one step at a time. After the match intense period, I'll use my June Holidays to catch up. I'll keep going. Thanks everyone!

Anniversary

2006-05-07T20:38:00.000+08:00

Was reading my very very first post and I realised;

It's been exactly 1 year since I started off my blog!

Recall the shift from
http://terensu.blogspot.com to http://silvernotez.blogspot.com

See how time flies...

Wireless everywhere?

2006-04-30T22:24:00.000+08:00

Imagine the possibility of surfing the net, checking your email, and using MSN Messenger while on a bus ride.

Erm yes, the picture above is for real. That's me using MSN on the bus!

On a separate issue, today has been a wonderful Sunday. We actually got started on PW discussion; met up with Wei Ming and Jian Min at Bedok Mac. And we ended up waiting for one another at two different Macs. dotz.... So within a week, we'll have to submit our EoM and GPP draft, which is gonna be super rush. And can't believe this will add on to my busy schedule after stepping up into office.

Instead, we ended up playing LAN. Haha. Nonetheless, it's been so long since I've had such a great game. I'll need more of such destressing activities.

CCA Leadership Transition

2006-04-30T20:38:00.000+08:00

Unlike in Secondary School where we all have 2 years to observe our juniors before putting them into action...

It's already the end of the 4th month since the start of the school term. Most CCAs have already selected their new year ones into the various executive positions, while the rest are currently in the midst of selection.

Similarly, in just two days time, we'll be having our Student's Council investiture, or so called the handover ceremony. Like many, apart from feeling excited, I'm also feeling sad as our seniors will no longer be there as much for us.

Looking back, about 3 1/2 months have passed since we've stepped up as council nominees, gone through the process of campaigns and successful elections. Also, we've passed through elects camp, planned Orientation 2, gone through the various match supports.
On a personal notez, i've taken up roles as the Assistant Master Redshirt and Vice-chairman cum Treasurer for ReCo. Of these, the most memorable one would definitely be the yellow nominees council tag and then the green elects tag... Despite having gotton so used to wearing them; very soon, I'll have to leave them behind.

On the same notez, I believe we councilors-to-be have indeed accomplished the 'impossible' with the help of the CT EXCO. We actually emptied all the chairs in the school (all classrooms, even those at the back of the hall, as well as those kept in the store rooms). So all the chairs are now inside the hall neatly arranged, even according to colour.

Just when we thought that the chairs were sufficient, we even went all out to carry all the canteen benches to fill up the remaining space at the back of the hall. All ready for Tuesday =) So don't be too shocked to find all the benches missing on tues.

A more enchanting sight would be the setting up of the HUGE VJC banner. Alongside the "1,2,3, pull" and "2 lower, 6 higher" commands, the flag was raised in stages, and it was indeed an amazing sight to behold. You simply couldn't imagine how long it took us, and how much manpower was required to put that up.

Will be looking forward to Tuesday though.

Waste of time

2006-04-23T22:51:00.000+08:00

This weekend has been a real waste of time. Can't believe I spend hours and hours trying to reduce whatever crap I have in my PI to 500 words. You know, those desperate measures of changing words into contractions so that the microsoft word's word count feature will count one word less.

So once again I did no work except my PI. sigh.

In conclusion, PI is such a waste of time. Who's seconding me?

Match Support

2006-04-17T22:23:00.000+08:00

today morning went vs to promote vjc with mrs chan, mr. tan yh, jireh and shu xie. it was really great joining the vs guys for assembly and singing the victorian anthem. it's been so long...

today was finally one great match support! we won cjc 5-1. good job guys keep it up =)

Reliving the past week

2006-04-14T12:09:00.000+08:00

It's gonna be another busy week next week. Mock SPA, Submission of PI Draft, Chemistry Lecture Assessment etc.

Nonetheless, it's been an enriching week for me that is. Have been telling myself to try to keep up with school work, and yup, it's indeed showing some form of progression. Apart from Econs, which many students still fail to comprehend. Give us more time. Managed to follow the tutorials for maths.

VS has done it again! Two golds. VJ has also done pretty well, a 3rd and 4th clinched. Still, 'the road never ends, never give up!'
Standing in front of the Victorian population once again last wednesday as a red shirt indeed brings back wonderful memories. Still clearly remember 2 years ago when I was also a red shirt in VS, where Dennis, Mereith and myself led a bunch of Sec 1I over to Turf. See how time flies.

Leading a whole new bunch of Victorians to cheer our team on is really a whole new experience once again. Not forgetting to mention being able to meet up with fellow juniors once again.

Victoria thy triumphs see, and victories we share yet...

Class outing last night at Suntec rocks! S55 rox! S61's @ BBQ too. rox on guys.

And even so, sports day yesterday was pretty fun too. Especially the cheerleading which all houses have worked so hard for.

Indeed, 'pictures' speak louder than words.

Here comes our mascots!

Found myself obsessed with taking pictures like these. It's indeed really fun to have a camera phone which can take pictures which shows up only a particular colour. Despite knowing that these effects can be easily conjured using photoshop; it's really cool to be able to swipe your camera lens around and seeing objects of a certain colour lighting up on screen.

Now I know, chairs in LT1 are blue, while chairs in LT5 are yellow.

Blue

Haha this one's hilarious, caught red handed!

Yellow

Red

Flipping Through e Online Albums

2006-04-10T22:22:00.000+08:00

Today was our first Match Supports. Very first one. A whole new experience, despite having gone through it once.

Time flies. Wednesday will be Cross Country. Two years ago, I was at Cross Country 2004. Now it's for VJC's.

Subconsciously, I found myself looking at the online photos taken since then.

http://ltc.vs.moe.edu.sg/gallery.html
http://itclub.vs.moe.edu.sg/photogallery.html
http://mc.vs.moe.edu.sg/album.html
http://album.silvernotez.com

Those were the days...

Turning point

2006-04-08T19:45:00.000+08:00

Yup, it's gonna be a turning point starting now. I'll really try to catch up with stuff this weekend. Especially when the match supports are really coming in.

Ok, no more grumbling. And thks for e concern everyone. I'll be back on track very soon.

Screwed up...

2006-04-06T22:40:00.000+08:00

Another day yet has passed...

As usual, I couldn't catch up on tutorials, Maths tutorial was just blindly copying whatever was discussed. Actually, 'discussed' is a wrong word to use... more apt would be that answers were 'thrown' at us. And it's rather discouraging to see your classsmates doing their work and keeping up.

Lecture was worse, I was totally stunned by the Chem lecture thingy. Dunno wad bonds he was talking about... sigh. stone for 1 hour.

Today was speech for Piano Ensemble EXCO. It turned out disastrous. I said things which I shouldn't have, and didn't say things which I should have.

I probably wouldn't get in; well I hope it's a blessing in disguise. I'll need the spare time to catch up on my work.

RECO's busy. And you wouldn't believe how much more work has been added to my agenda.

I just miss the old times with those people. Some of whom have left, whereas few are scattered all over. When pace's within control.

Issit just me or issit just jc life?

Oh lord, save me, take me out of this vicious trap. Or at least, stop time for 1 month. That's when at least I can catch up...

perhaps please, someone, kindly enlighten me...

Dilemma... life just sucks

2006-04-05T20:58:00.000+08:00

Acadamics just sucks. Pace's just so super duper fast... and work's tough!

Take for example:

Prove: sin x + sin 3x + sin 5x + sin 7x = 16 sin x (cos x)² cos² 2x

LHS: (sin 7x + sin x) + (sin 5x + sin 3x)
= 2 sin [(7x+x)/2] cos[(7x-x)/2] + 2 sin [(5x+3x)/2] cos [(5x-3x)/2]
= 2 sin 4x [cos 3x + cos x]
= 2 (2sin 2x cos 2x) [2cos (3x+x) /2] [cos (3x-x) /2]
= 8 sin 2x cos 2x cos 2x cos x
= 8(2sin x cos x) cos² x cos² 2x
= 16 sin x cos² x cos² 2x
= RHS

Ok, someone pls tell me, what's the use of learning all these confusing crap?

I mean like wth, only H2 maths and this is the crap we must learn? Imagine H3 maths...
Day after day, I go into lecture halls copying down crap's' like these for all subjects, and then finding myself walking out not understanding anything...

Things are just not like secondary school nowadays...

Every week, I will be walking up that path of road with George; we usually going home together after council meetings. It has somewhat become a reflection path for both of us.

I've nothing much to say except to grumble about how time flies...

1 week ago, Presidential Speeches just ended
2 weeks ago, Selection of 4 Presidential candidates
3 weeks ago, Elect's Camp
1 month ago, Orientation 2 Adhoc

... Weeks ago, we were just elects, even nominees; and it wasn't so long ago that I went for the Council interview... or even making the first move of picking up the council form...

And all these while, my acadamics still really lagging. In every subject... I go home daily finding myself without sufficient time for tutorials... And I either just pass or fail my assignments.

Today's the selection of EXCO within SC.

Firstly, a very big Congrats to Marc, Zara, Geroge, Britney, Shu Hua, Jireh, Melanie, Clara for making into EXCO ya =) Look forward to working with you all.

In fact today, I was really in a dilemma whether or not to consider any position. But considering that my homework is lagging so badly... And also, I don't think I'm suitable for the job.

And I still have committments like iComp and Piano Ensemble. I'm not really too sure if I can cope with all of them. And not forgetting I still have commitments in VS as an IT Club Advisor.

It's just so different here. Expecially in terms of managing time. It's just so tough to fit into other people's schedule. It's so unlike the times in VS where I get to choose the the time/day for meetings for all my different CCAs. Most of the time, CCAs clash and I have to sacrifice some of them.

I can't even run for iComp's EXCO because all iComp meeting clashes with SC Meetings, despite it being one of my passion.

Perhaps I should try EXCO in Piano Ensemble? I seriously don't know. I'm lost.

Was speaking to Cheok today, and found out that it's really the same on his side. Compared to VS, it's just so hard to find a footing somewhere over here.

And Andy. We just clique. Someone whom I found who's gone through similar experiences as me since Secondary School, and is now going through the same situation as me and we know how each other feels. A very nice friend/fellow elect of mine to have around.

It's been two weeks since I have changed to S55. Indeed, it has proven that it hadn't been a wrong move. Classmates are really friendly, chill and outgoing. Looking forward with better days with you all in VJ.

To my S61 classmates, it's really been a nice time spending time with you all for the past 3 months. However, it will really be great to see you guys break out of your 3 major cliques and hang out with one another. Since I entered 61, I've been trying to mix around with everyone, hanging out with the 3 distinct groups, hoping things would get better.

Over the period of time, I've been giving myself and everyone a chance hoping for an improvement. However, it's just ineffective. As such, I find myself unable to relate to anybody closely, and I'm sure many of you also don't. Also, I'm really getting tired of being in an un-bonded class and trying to be omnipresent in 3 different groups. It's just so irritating and tiring. I realise I can't survive in this kinda environment, and I needed a different peer pressure.
In fact, when I decided to change class in order to get out of this trap, it was already too late to do so. I've been delaying too much with hopes for a change...

But I only managed to do so as our class has 26 people then, and hence I was then offered a new class which has only 23 people then; to even out the numbers.

Indeed, it's really disheartening to see the dunman/vs boys always together, the girls and the Jeffery/Jeannie/Yvonne/Darren.etc.. clique. I really do hope you guys could acknowledge one another's presence more in class. Be supportive of one another, as these are the 25 people whom you will work with and enjoy JC life out with. Now that I've seen how an ideal class is like, I'd probably be back to help bond the class ya? One of these days we'll go out together for bonding session kz? Keep in touch =)

And her... sigh. scandals in class... the facade between the real and fake; the known and unknown.

I'll just keep going on...

How to woo a girl?

2006-04-03T23:44:00.000+08:00

The experienced ones out there? Advice please? ---> (tagboard)

Disclaimer: It's not that I want to woo a girl though. Pls don't get the wrong idea. =) Its purpose is to build up a knowledge database for those out there who might find themselves caught in this situation.

Time Check

2006-03-25T22:52:00.000+08:00

It's been really fast. 2 months and 25 days has passed since I officially entered VJC.

Apart from my all CCAs/acquaintances, I still have not found my footing yet.
My homework is still in chaos.

Just yesterday, I had to make one of the toughest decision yet since I entered VJC. Facing Mrs. Foo, I only had like minutes to decide. It was a gamble.

I decided to take the chance. At least, it will prove beneficial for both parties. It'll even out the numbers.

I pray for the best, this coming monday, with this choice ever affecting me...

I shaln't really say goodbye, for I never really left. You guys have been really nice and supportive. I'll not forget. But I think I need to try to find my footing somewhere else...

... and it goes on...

Hi Timothy!

2006-03-23T22:02:00.000+08:00

Comedy of the century.

Was having lunch with Susanto, Timothy and Joel.

Venue: Canteen

[Terence was telling Susanto about this *guy*'s crush]

Terence: Let's intro them.

[Just then, that *girl* walked towards our table]

Susanto: Hey hi, this is [name of *guy*].

*girl*: huh? [stunned]

short pause

[walks off, even more stunned]

Opps...

haha. nvm if u dun understand =)

Anyway, time really flies. It seemed like only yesterday which I took my Prelim orals. Now the Sec 4s are already in the midst of the process. And guess wad, they reused the same passage, picture and question which i got for O Levels last year. Good luck people =)

And the VJ SC's presidential candidates are out! All the best ya to the 4 of you!

Camps

2006-03-16T21:29:00.000+08:00

I've just returned from 4 days of camp.

13th-15th Student's Council Elects Camp
15th-16th Piano Emsemble Camp

Student's Council Elects Camp 06

With comparison against the many camps I've attended/conducted since VS, this has to be one of the most enriching ones. Within three days, I realised I've seen myself pushed to one of my maximum, in terms of mentally, and physically. Like as mentioned by my faci, Jasmine, I've also seen for myself the meaning to be in One Council, not individuals.

The camp kinda started off bad, especially when I actually forgotton to bring my elects' nametag. It was really stupid of me, packed and checked everything, and left out one of the most important thing.

Indeed, the seniors set off the tone for the camp. Then, each of us was given a fragile item X to keep with us at all times. If broken, we will be replaced with 3 more. You've probably figured out it's an egg by now. In fact, our seniors really put in a lot of effort into the eggs. There was even an attempt to putting a council stamp onto each of them, to prevent it from being replaced.

In addition to our burden of having a high sense of urgency, we also had to account for these eggs during attendance report; this whole new concept was really fresh for me. Imagine "Elects reporting attendance, total strength 40, current strength 40. Total egg strength 63, current egg strength 17!"

Though this process, accountability and sense of responsibility was inculcated into all of us. In fact, it all makes sense. These eggs represent the image we all must uphold. Any mistakes we make will leave an ugly mark on us as well as the council, as would be represented by the cracks on the egg. In reality, the stress and pressure of upholding the expectations is clearly reflected in the 3 days by ensuring the safety of these eggs.

Ultimately, each of the egg was special to us in many ways. Take Anita for example, who actually treated hers like her baby. And perhaps maybe more would be an attempt for mother hen to sit on them for incubation. One unfortunate comedy would probably be the subconscious attempt to incubate an egg. haha. I'll touch on that later.

Interestingly, our camp's theme is Constallations, and the 6 teams have to come up with the names starting with E, L, E, C, T, S, each with its own unique colour. My team is the 2nd 'E', with a colour of pink. After doing some wonderful research, my team name's called 'Etamin', which actually's the name of a star. Also, it means Sea monster, which we quickly related to Patrick from Spongebob, due to it's pink colour and it being a sea monster. Our team identity is a pink hairband, which we wore on our necks throughout the camp.

There were like so many enriching activities. Apart from playing initiative and team building games, we were all given sessions on our expectations, project management talk, and most interestingly personal DISCcernment Inentory test. And, similar to Mansoor, I was on a high D and I (higher on D).

Dominance: People who score high in the intensity of the 'D' styles factor are very active in dealing with problems and challenges, while low D scores are people who want to do more research before committing to a decision. High "D" people are described as demanding, forceful, egocentric, strong willed, driving, determined, ambitious, aggressive, and pioneering.

Influence: People with High I scores influence others through talking and activity and tend to be emotional. They are described as convincing, magnetic, political, enthusiastic, persuasive, warm, demonstrative, trusting, and optimistic.

1st Toilet session. 40 mins for 19 guys (Darren!! Where were you? lolx) to shower and clean toilets. Supposedly teamwork and planning were to be taught. But we kindly screwed it up. All was fine until I unknowingly volunteered to be the toilet IC. Went in and to my horror found litter in the bin, strains on hair on the floor, and sinks wet. I thought we actually dried the sinks and cleared the bin. To add on to my horror, I had the first hand view of watching the seniors wipe a piece of bread around the sink area, and was questioned whether I would eat it (To test our confidence in the cleaning). I thought they weren't serious about it, until they passed me the piece of bread.
At that crucial point in time, I just wanted to quickly swallow the whole thing down and be done and over with it, so that we guys would just get through that obstacle safely. Jireh stopped me in time, suggesting that we share the piece of bread together. In the end, we didn't eat it. Clearly, this has reflected the unity in us.

And I enjoyed the night candle game. 1st game, Jared's tall. 2nd game, I was attacked from 4 sides. 3rd game, Mansoor's super tall. Statue of Liberty.

We were also given a scenario in which we were faced with difficult situation. The first was to act as waiters under the charge of two temperamental managers with different views of serving customers. Also, the customers were also very hard to please. It was pretty amusing at first to see the 'skid' in action, and I found myself quite difficult to fit into play.
Through this, we learnt how to deal with difficult people, as well as to be creative.

Second scene was for us to act as red shirts to lead a bunch of uncooperative Victorians. Having been a JL/SL in VS before, this scene doesn't feel too unfamilar. However, I realised there were still learning points. Such as the importance of learning about how the games work, and knowing when to cheer & when not to. Also, to heed Victorians advice, & not to think that you know everything.

Hike was really fun, despite having to walk 6 hours covering 17km from VJ to Pasir Ris. Etamin was really supportive of one another. Had much fun running together, hurrying one another, cheering, chatting. In fact, before the hike, I already had such a serious case of abrasion, I actually wasn't wearing my underwear for the hike. I had to be extremely careful not to zao geng. lolx. Of course, I hesistated quite a bit beforehand whether to or not to wear erm.

Well, anyway, at one of the checkpoints, our nice facis bought each of us ice-cream. Omg, that was like so heavenly, and so nice of them. As such, I put my egg into my back pocket so as to enjoy my ice cream, solemly reminding myself not to sit down.

As we were heading for the Sunflower park at Tampanis about an hour later, my legs started to beg for a rest. So I decided to take a rest while waiting for the traffic lights. Then, I heard a yet so familar crack sound. Thinking for a while, I stood up "Oh Shit!"

And the gross feeling of egg yolk and white filled my pocket, pants and legs. Considering the fact that I was without an underwear too. uggghh..

Council night was great. We elects sang Stand by me, and that darling song. The councillors gave us something in return, some nice comedy. 22 impressions they had on us the 23rd elects. Then we got to learn the council song.

We were abruptly woken up at 4am to do a solo walk. Reflections. Ended up in East Coast sleeping. And watched the sunrise together. Like what was mentioned, it was indeed a moment to behold.

In fact, I've got 2 very nice facis for my group. Apart from supporting us with engaging reflection sessions, they also supported us throughout the camp. They (esp. Yong Feng) even wore the pink hairband with us. And they've also gone through the trouble to teach us about the missing piece. Thank you facis... And we've grown so proud of the Etamin cheer we actually did it over and over again! Indeed, kudos to fellow Etamin: Yong Feng, Jasmine, Darren, Benjamin, Sheena, Zara, Shu Xie, Anita and Lubin for having gone through this with me.

After breakcamp, I simply couldn't bear to remove the hairband, and was thus spotted wearing the band throughout Piano camp and even on the way home. Indeed, the feelings for one another grew so much during the three days; the times we shared together; the fun we had together, but most importantly, we all went through it together as a team and supported one another as a council. Ultimately, we met most of our expectations; and it turned out to be a enjoyable, significant and memorable camp.

After all that has been done, it all boils down to the continuity of our passion for serving the school and the council. As many councillors have said, this is just the beginning. We all still have a long way to go! So fellow elects, let's make it happen, shall we?

BTW, does anyone have photographs of the camp?

Life into VJC already...

2006-03-09T21:03:00.000+08:00

2 months have gone by just like this... to think tmr will be the last day I'll officially be able to wear my VS uniform to school. :(

Fortunately, apart from the confusing and mundane school acadamic work that I'm still struggling with, I'm more or less settled down into VJC already.

So much has happened. First was the release of the A Level Results. VJC did pretty well this year. We even produced some of Singapore's top scholars. It's so cool, even the media was here to do some filming. As councillors-elects, we were given the opportunity to help out the release of results; and it was indeed an eye opener though it was rather similar to the recent release of O Levels. Thank our seniors for our half day off =)

What's so scary is that most of the men who returned for their results had their heads already shaven. Some even brought caps for disguise; what a sight!

Anyway, planning of Orientation two has been really tiring. We adhoc spent almost everyday staying back for discussions. Had to clear within a week. It was so intense we go home really late everyday; one of the days we were locked up in school after being cheated by the guards. We then resorted to using our brains to get out of school.

Luckily 2 of my adhoc members, George and Zara stay Sengkang like me. Shu Hua too take 55 home, hence I've really got my night companions to go home with during the late planning process. I've also changed my route to taking bus 82, in which some services are non air-con bus. How often do you get to put your hand out of the window?

Yup, after all that has been anticipated and done, in my opinion, Orientation Two has been a real success. It's indeed a sense of achievement to have gone through the planning process itself. Especially my School Culture/Logistics committee which succeeded in the CCA Walkabout, School Cheers/Mass Dance sessions as well as the Suntec Mass Dance. Kudos to fellow School Culture members Peng Kai and David!

Not forgetting the rest of my fellow committee, Marc, Melanie, Nikhil, Mansoor, Dennis, Britney, Sze Huan & Ms Chia for the wonderful learning experience we have had together. =)

March holidays, Monday-Wednesday council elect's camp. Wednesday-Thursday Piano Ensemble camp.

& I've decided to quit softball. Trainings are too tiring...

Indeed, time heals. I admit I used to feel uncomfortable in class, especially with no very close VS friends. Now I feel much better hanging around with my classmates; they are really really fun people! Anyway, there has been a major shift in class. Many ppl have left either to other schools/class. It's pretty sad to see so many people leave, Benjamin, Priscilla, Felicia, Z.Yuanhong, Sze Huan, Emily... etc etc...

And to my new classmates, welcome to S61!

IT Youth Leader Finalist ! but... Busy... Madness... ahhh!

2006-02-26T23:16:00.000+08:00

been so busy... dun even have time to blog. no time for hw. today went sch for Orientation 2 meeting. Then since I was in school, so went to join in Yvonne for filming... lolx.

It's been a crazy week ever since gotton in the elections for Student's Council. Now it's the start of planning for Orientation 2. Came up with the Orientation Ad-hoc website within like 1 night! Woohoo!

Guess what, I've like 4 CCAs now. SC, iComp, Piano Emsemble, Softball.

So what's supposed to happen tmr for me is this:

1st Softball training at 5pm, SC Meeting for O2 at 5.30, Support my classmate Yvonne for Campus superstar, and...

tmr's SLV too. sigh. Have not memorised my script for the skit yet. Btw, im acting as fireman =).

See everything clashes. Sigh. I'm seriously forced to drop ccas if this goes on. I dun even have time to touch my hw this wkend.

Last evening after the Orientation 2 meeting, I was invited back for the Annual Gala Dinner at Raffles City Convention Centre Ballroom - Swissotel, The Stamford, as part of the closing ceremony for the competition. This is an annual event whereby a total of 900 + representatives from IT related firms all over Singapore (including Microsoft, IBM, Singtel etc.) were invited.

In this IT Youth Leader competition, I managed to emerge as one of the 6 finalist, and was presented a plaque/certificate during last night's dinner. Other finalists include a teacher, while few others were mainly SMU and Poly students/graduates.

Indeed, it has been an eye opener for me throughout this whole competition, which includes going through an interview, in which I had to make a presentation in front of a panel of 20+ judges (which i remembered was on the same day as my O Level Biology written paper). It has challenged me psychologically to be able to carry out my best in front of so many high profile/experienced personnal. Also, I had to focus on both my exams and the interview at the same time.

Also, it's especially so as I was the youngest in age in the dinner/competition. (It was also the first time I wore a formal lounge suit/legally served red wine haha). From this, I have gained expereince in working and interacting with adults.

In fact, I'm more than honoured to be able to represent Victoria School, as well as VS IT Club/VS Monitors' Council to achieve/receive such a prestigious award, one which is recognised at national level.

Once again, a very big thank you to Mr. Ang for having made the recommendation possible, and Mr. Alvin You and Ms. Tang for your recommendation and the testimonials.

Also, thank you principals and teachers; Mr. Low Eng Teong, Mr. Adrian Lim, Ms. Ann Teo, Mr. Ikhwan, Ms. Wendy Yap, Mrs. Foo, Mr. Gabriel, and Mr. Edmund Goh for your support and guidance throughout my 4 years in CCA, for this, has helped me to learn and develop in terms of character as well as in my passion for IT.

Nil Sine Labore. =)

kk. gtg start memorising my script now. 12.13 am liao!!!

Student's Leaders' Investiture

2006-02-25T08:55:00.000+08:00

Well done, you guys have done it! Congrats!

You swine, you take some and you lose more.

Council speech!

2006-02-16T13:48:00.000+08:00

Woah, today was council speech! It was super scary man! Despite having only to speak in front of 1/6 of the school.

I didn't manage to follow the speech as planned as I was shaking uncontrollably. I dunno why it happened, I wasn't scared; perhaps just nervous. I couldn't bear to look at the script. Worse, that happened less than 10 seconds after I started. I had to keep my hands/script low to avoid being noticed to be shaking.

shake.shake.shake.scary.scary.scary.

Made up my mind...

2006-02-14T20:23:00.000+08:00

I had a hard time at the submit button... nonetheless...

Joint Admission Exercise 2006 _2

2006-02-14T06:22:00.000+08:00

(Click to enlarge)

Woah, this is what I got at 6.20am. So frustrating. Looks like I won't be able to submit my Verification slip today.

Joint Admission Exercise 2006

2006-02-14T05:35:00.000+08:00

(Click to enlarge)

Woah, so much for waking up at 5.30 am to do the JAE!

Busy... Hectic

2006-02-11T23:07:00.000+08:00

Woah, it's just getting so crazy after the release of results.

Student's Council

Campaigning starts
Council meeting voting opens
House speeches; morning meeting
CT walkabout
Voting closes/Council Night
Internal election results/Choosing Orientation 2 Ac-hoc
Election results revealed to college

Wow. All these happening in the month of February! And I'm not where near even getting started... esp. for campaigns and speech!

And not forgetting Piano Ensemble, the making of the gifts to be sold on Valentine's day by Tues.

Valentine's day gifts for classmates.

Hectic Acadamic work.

And I'm in a dilemma between VJ, RJ and HCJ. Teachers recommanding me for R. Aunties recommanding me for HC. I'm getting too hectic in VJ. But I love VJ. I love the anthem. I love the cheers. I like my friends. I love my CCA. I like my teachers. I don't think I want to leave.

I'm just a little lost.

Official Release of O Level Results

2006-02-11T13:29:00.000+08:00

...i think you all are a unique batch in many ways. Unique in a sense that I think your batch, i would consider you all a very well all-rounded batch, because you all both have acheived a lot in terms of not only in your acadamics, but also in your CCAs. Well done...

- Mr. Low Eng Teong, Principal of Victoria School

It was early in the morning at 9am when I was at Mac. @ parkway parade, about to meet up with my 4d-classmates for a gathering before our verdict.

Conversation via Sms @ 9am:
my.junior: You Got six points! Congrats.
Terence: *stunned* I'm not so sure if I'm gonna believe that. It's too early. And if I find out that you are playing a trick on me, I'm so gonna strangle you.
my.junior: It came from (a teacher). Im sure. Congrets man.

Hmmx... that was how the day started... Stunned. Still a little apprehensive, I carried on my day. Back to VJC at 10am for a workshop for the student's council.

Back in VS later around 1, there has already been rumours going round that I got 6 points. People were like coming over and asking me whether it's true, while some juniors were assuring me that it was for real. How was I supposed to answer them? I could only tell them that I'm wasn't sure, as there was no official documents to prove so. I was also afraid that later it might end up 'yi chang huan xi yi chang kong' .

Anyway, besides that, it was comforting seeing my friends from VS again; some of whom I might not even have a chance to meet again. It just felt so different compared to VJ, where you see people whom you don't know their names. In VS, it's the opposite, you see people you know so well, and people who clique so easily with you. ... ok, i know it's just the beginning.

Then, hearing Mr. Maran's voice again refreshed many wonderful memories that I have had... I just had to miss VS so much...

... So at 2.30pm came the final verdict.

English - A1
Combined Humanities - A1
Mathematics - A1
Additional Mathematics - A1
Physics - A1
Chemistry - A2
Biology - A1
Higher Chinese -B3
Chinese - A2
CCA - A1

Man, I screw up chemistry? That was the only science paper which I was most confident.

~~I shall continue later, cutting hair now...~~

Erm yeah, without a doubt, I'm really very contented with my L1R5. Besides Chem.
In fact, I haven't expected to get A1 for both English and Humanities, for I've never gotton A1 for english before. And also I even read one question wrongly for Elective Geography. I think I'm really lucky to have scraped 6 points for the crucial 6 subjects.

Without a doubt, I owe these results to my principal, all my teachers, peers, seniors and juniors.

Ms. Lorraine Tham (English)
Mrs. Koh (English tutor)
Ms. Kong (Humanities)
Mrs Wong (E/A Mathematics)
Mrs Foo (Physics)
Mr. Wong (Chemistry)
Mdm Nabilah (Biology)
Mr. Chew/Mr. Wee (Higher Chinese/Chinese)
Mr. Alvin You/Mrs Foo/Ms. Wendy Yap (IT Club Teachers IC)
Ms. Tang/Mr. Gabriel (Monitors' Council Teachers)
Mr. Jonathan Oh (PSL/LTC teacher IC)

And any other teachers who has helped me in one way or another.

Without any of you, your constant support and guidance, I wouldn't have made it through my 4 years. Though it wasn't a smooth journey, it allowed me to grow, learn and mature. Thank you you all once again. This indeed, signifies the closure of my 4 years in VS.

In the hall; it was a multi-emotional. People screaming at their results, agitated. Others were emotionless. Many were exchanging blows of hugs and handshakes. Many were talking to teachers for advice...

Apart from my indivudual performance, VS overall did (in my opinion), very well this year, despite my batch was not very looked up upon by most at the beginning of the year, I do still remember.

Compared to last year's batch (Which did VS proud by bringing us to Band 1, and was one of the batches with the best acadamic results since many years ago):

We achieved 96% (approximate) people eligible for JC, with 140++ students who scored single digit L1R5 (only about 20 less than last year's), a 60% Distinction in English, and average L1R5 score of 11.3 (lost to last year's by 0.1). We have come close, thus far. Apart from so, "we are a unique batch", who has also done well in our CCAs. Rock on Victorians, after all the hard work, we've done the impossible and have done VS proud.

Victoria, thy sons are we...

To my juniors:

Well, one thing all Victorians must realise is, it's really about Nil Sine Labore. Consistent effort in managing your studies, that is. Haiz. I wonder when my Sec3 and Sec2 guys will realise this. Every year teachers tell the same things to their students. And every year history repeats. If everyone realise that they should start working early, there wouldn't be anyone who'll shed tears when they receive their O Level results.

Quoted from: Mr. Jackson Tik's blog

... and we will not forget...

O Levels out... soon

2006-02-11T10:16:00.000+08:00

It's been one hectic and scary week. Apart from school work and the SC, the O Level results to be released on Friday has been too nerve-racking.

The night before the release of the results was suprisingly calm for me. After Piano ensemble, I unknowingly found myself walking back in the dark to VS, and that was like at 8pm. And coincidently, I met Mrs. Foo my form teacher, who was then in charge of the Sec 3 parent meeting; and hence let us into a conversation. It was pretty a heart-warming talk as we discussed about my ex-classmates, and also about choosing of schools. She recommended us to RJ, due to many reasons, such as the connections which will do good in the long run. Of course, VJC's good too...

So I found myself roaming around the school, and eventually I was at the parade square. This was the first time I was there at 8.30pm. Usually it was locked. I walked alone into that dark silent, yet familiar ground; however, it didn't feel as familiar as it should be in the dark. I felt my goosebumps standing as the cool breeze swept past me; looking up at the "Nil Sine Labore", i suddenly felt so small. The building seemed to be engulfing me. Eventually, upon closing my eyes, images of the times I spent in Victoria School flashed through me. Soon after, I found myself singing the Victorian Anthem... posing like what I used to do for morning assembly, before I tore down the long flight of stairs in fear. I was starting to get too afraid of the solitary and the dark, but nonetheless, the feeling was great... Looks like I miss VS too much.

At the gallery, there were some hostelites playing badminton. Yet, standing before me will be the grounds for judgement tomorrow...

It will be a place where everyone will be witnessing a multi-emotional event.

O Level Results

2006-02-07T20:30:00.000+08:00

New Year was great! Apart from visiting on 1st and 2nd day, 3rd day was most fun. Cause cousins came over to play, and I even learnt to play mahjong. =)

O Level Results will be coming out this Friday... sigh...

New Year's Eve

2006-01-28T16:48:00.000+08:00

Woah, it's the last day of the Chicken year already... Decided to blog something as this will be like my last post of lunar year 2005.

It's been 28 days in school. I have to admit, apart from orienatation, school's been really crappy. I'm like having so much trouble keeping up with my school work; I find myself falling asleep in most lectures and not understanding almost all my tutorials. The pace's really really fast and I am seriously lagging behind.

I find myself missing VS so much... too much. Take for example, just last week alone, I walked back to VS after school like 4 times out of 5 schooling days. It just feels so warm in that familiar grounds. It feels back at home seeing my juniors and teachers, and watching/helping out my juniors in Monitors' Council, IT Club, Peer Support Board and Leadership Training Camp in action. I've had no mood for doing homework, for I have gotton no drive from VJ to do all these work. And mind you, the difference in difficulty level of the J1 syllabus is so much more compared to Sec 4's...

In class; Having been so used to being a class monitor in VS for 4 years, it feels pretty out of place not doing the same old job. Whenever the CT rep shouts for "class stand", I am perturbed. Looks like i need more time to get used to the changes. In fact, I miss the times I've had as class monitor, with my class Sec 4D, even though they could be an irritating bunch at times. lol. However, I do consider the fact that it's good for a change too...

And now, so many people from my 4D are like CT reps for their respective CT classes. Sometimes I really wonder whether I made the right choice of resigning as CT rep and deciding to try for SC instead.

Ever since I resigned, I find myself pretty quiet in class (not the usual loud/outspoken/talkative me); lost from my usual routine. My CT class also doesn't give me a very strong sense of belonging (unlike in VS). Perhaps because I don't have any close friends from VS in it to hang out much with., hence I feel so out of place. Moreover, class has been distinctively split into 3 groups. The Dunman/VS group, the CCHS/Cedar group and the chinese scholars group. Though they are rather enthusiastic about stuff, I still do not feel like a part of them. (I am still trying to fit in though, trying to participate as much activities with them.)
Issit because I still can't let go of VS? or do I need more time?

In fact, I'm in such a dilemma whether to stay on in VJ or not. Staying on would mean constant distraction about VS, and also to remain as a lost sheep in my class. I think what I really need now is to be in a class where my close friends from VS are, who can provide me the necessary competition to strive for a goal. (Unfortunately most of my very close friends take Bio instead of Phy) Even those who take physics are in different classes.

Having heard of many positive comments from my peers in other JCs currently, I am starting to realise VJC might not be the best place for me (I've heard that NJC and even RJC's a nice place). This is despite the fact that I've always been hoping to enter VJC in the first place since VS. I'm lost... perhaps... it's still too early to tell. But... I've like got only 2 weeks more till the O Level results are released, and I have to make a sound decision by then.

On the other hand, VJC's good in such a way that I have my constant support from my VS peers, and not forgetting that I've already made good friends with quite a number of people, seniors as well as VIP juniors. Also, at least I've got my foundations in my current CCAs, iComp and the Piano Emsemble. I am also running for Students' Council, of which I recently had an interview. Of course, whether these will still be possible boils down to whether my O Level results will make it for me to stay on...

Should/Would I leave for another JC? Only weeks will tell...

Yesterday was the school's celebration for the New Year. I didn't really enjoy it though. Thk god school ended pretty early, so much so that the VS people actaully marched back together back to VS. Woah, what a sight! Some VS juniors were actually staring out of the hall to admire this rare phenomenon.

The meeting in VS was so cool. Got to meet up with ex-Victorians, and also enjoy the CNY concert...

... Ok, I've got to leave home now to my cousin's place for the traditional reunion dinner. Shall continue when I return.

It's like 10 more mins to CNY now. I hope to finish this post by then.

Yup, I was talking about VS. It's just awesome, meeting up with old pals. There was even this Victorian Idol thingy, and the first guy sang the Chi Pang really great. He really deserves to win. =) Following which, went bowling with Kian sin, Daniel, Clarence, Jeremy and Zhenyi at Katong. Then I rushed off to Mac @ Parkway to meet up with me OG. After which I rushed off to Novena to meet up with some of my classmates to go to our senior's place. It was only when we reached there then I realised we were having BBQ. Had much fun there with the food, the company and the card games. =) Thks Clare for making it happen.

So much for a Pre-CNY activity... haha... So bz...

Oh well, having seen blogs of my S61 classmates, and they seem to kinda liked their JC life. Sigh, when will my turn to like JC life be?

Btw, wishing all of you a Happy New Year. Juz 2 more mins..

Signing off... 11:58pm, 28th Jan.

17 on 17th

2006-01-17T22:44:00.000+08:00

Yeah, it's a happy happy birthday to me. & Not forgetting my fellow friends who share the same BD as me, Jeremy He, Tina, One Female OGL...

It's been a really eventful birthday in VJ today. Have been constantly warned by my VS peeps about getting dunked into the koi pond. Conincidently, just a week ago, the DM happened to warn the VJ boys about our "rough" behavior during ppl's birthdays... this 'protection' came at the right time. Though I was constantly being 'locked on target' when walking about the campus, I managed to evade their evil plans. heh heh

Stepped into class today, and got a little surprise from my class. They actually sang me a birthday song!! woot. so sweet ! That kinda brought me closer to my class. And, yeah, today I also officially stepped down as the CT rep. My teacher was quite reluctant to let me off, but it worked out pretty fine after I told him I will be running for the SC.

Oh yeah btw, I think I've made up my mind to join SC, since I've decided to drop CT Council already. Do support me will ya? Thks in advance! =) lol.

So after that were just boring lessons. During Econs lecture, I went to sit with my VS people, See Kiat, Law, Wei Xin.

~~Tell you what, It's 11:11pm now, I need to catch my sleep. I shall continue tmr?~~

Yup, during the lecture, these people gave me another surprise. They actually bought me a present! And a card too! Thks See Kiat, Law and J. Foong! =) That's really really sweet.

After that met up with my OG and we went out for dinner together at TM. It was really fun. We proceeded on to the playground, and started playing like some kindergarden kids. (Imagine a bunch of J1s and J2s swinging to and fro) We spun one another on the spinning thing, and in the end we all left the playground giddy..... That was so much fun ! Releasing all the stress.

Decided to leave for home at 9.30pm, but waited for 2 buses but could not board them as they were very crowded. So Wei Duo and I decided to change bus stop. We finally got up the bus which got us home late. Btw, thks for getting me the album. That's so thoughtful! And it's the first time I've received a gift from a girl =) It's really really meaningful!

Anyway, I've had a really enjoyable birthday. Thanks to everyone for your bd wishes.

Btw, I would like to archive my smses here. I need to clear my smses as my stupid phone only allows limited storage!

Wei Duo 06:41: happy birthday! ;)

Ada 06:41: heyy,its 1am & im here to wish you a happy sweet seventeen!may you have a wonderful time today yepp? =) takkire loads & do smile always!God bless! -BIG hhugg-
Ada 06:52: haha,im glad it made you smile =)

Jacklyn 06:47: Hey heres ANOTHER song for u a yr ltr.. Happie bdae to uu, happie bdae to uu.. Happie dbae to uncle terence. Happie bdae to uu..

Kenrick 06:51: HAPPY B'DAY! May all your dreams come true! Hope you will still be in vj 3 mths ltr ya? XD

Jeremy He 07:02: Happy birthday my friend, that shares the day with me.

Reema 08:20: HAPI BDAE TERRENCE!!! Reema

Wan Peng 08:39: Happy birthdae :)

Timothy Tan 1158: Heyz. Happy 17th birthday

Colin Tan 1158: Hi... Wishing you a happy birthday! :)

Hozefa 14:42: Happy birthday. :)

Jaslyn Lim 16:29: [] #"(>""<)' **+('( 'o', )') *+ (o)(o)" #+ HaPpY Birthday! Joel Tan 18:26: so you were dunked into the koi pond?
Joel Tan 18:45: Oh ya i forgot... HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! ^^;

John Cheo 20:37: Happy bday senior!may you grow so much emotionally as well as physically into such a charming kunk to swoon over all the girls in vk aye!take joy in life's little blessings k!

Thanks once again for your well wishes. As well as those who msged me online on MSN !

Orientation (Day 4)

2006-01-08T13:28:00.000+08:00

VJC is full of fun, joy, laughter... It's funky, lively, berserk... (pardon my limited vocab.) Everyone must come to VJC!

(With reference to Friday...)

It's finally the official last day of Orientation (Not counting Sea Sports Carnival on Monday).
The day started off pretty much in chaos as it was the first time the J1s are to gather in their CT groups. I couldn't find mine in the 2k population, hence like many lost sheeps, I just wondered about the hall.

Pretty much on schedule, we then proceeded to our CT venues to meet our 'classmates' and 'seniors'. I was pretty sad, yet happy, that only 2 VS peeps were in my class. Sad because these two are not very close friends (Teo Hong and Yeli). Happy as I get to make new friends (hopefully better ones). Went to class together with my new friend from my OG (Ding Hong); we were one of the earliest at the container room - our classroom)

My Form Teacher explained that he is rather new, as he has only been in school for only six months. He seems like a pretty easy teacher to work with. The nightmare came when my potential 'classmates' streamed into class. Girls and boys. The girls looked decent (I have not been in a class with so many girls b4). Then, one 'ah beng' looking girl (with her hair spiked tall and with that typical ah beng face) came in late in Nanyang Uniform. You can imagine my trauma when I saw her...

The teacher said a few stuff and left, then the seniors came in. Upon seeing them, I felt extremely disappointed, as they seem like the type who's super 'bo-chap'. They talked nonsense like nobody's business, probably because they came unprepared. Following which, they tried making a vote for a CT rep (something like class monitor). Three candidates went up, and made some speech.

That 'Nanyang' ah-beng girl was first.
In some singlish style, standing like a ah-beng, talking in a bo-chup manner.

Nanyang girl: "You all must vote for me ah, cause last time I was president of Computer Club. Then ah, lots of people give me problems la, and I managed to solve them."

Next, one chinese feller went up. Spoke in a super egoistic-manner.
Chinese feller: "You all should vote for me, cause I'm a natural leader."
Floor: "What do you mean you are a natural leader?"
Chinese feller: "Natural means natural, cannot explain one."

That was his reply...

Lastly, a malay boy made his speech.
Malay boy: "In primary school, I was monitor for Primary 4, 5 and 6. I believe I can take up responsiblity."

Woah, these kinda people gonna be MY class monitor? Dotz... In the end, we voted for the Malay boy as he seems most decent of them all...

Then, they did lots of crap, like taking class pictures and stuff. When we were about to leave, one of the seniors said, "Hey guys, you all must vote for a new CT rep."

It was then I realised it was another scam. All the 3 candidates were actually seniors posing as J1s... dotz dotz dotz... "--"!

After which we returned back to the hall for more OG activities. This time, I feel much more relaxed, as we all managed to know one another much better. We played wierd OG games around the school, but was pretty much fun. Actually I felt kinda wierd playing those games, especially as they are the similar types of games I planned for my juniors in Secondary School. Fancy playing those games myself haha.

I pretty much enjoyed the game where we all stood on the bench in one line and arranged ourselves in a certain order. We got to hug one another, ya haha... The last question came in best, "Arrange yourselves according to the first letter of your School." As the opponent team were busy shouting "VS!", "TKGS!", "CEDAR!" to their team mates, I shouted to the game masters

"Hey, WE'RE DONE! We are all from VJC!!!" So we won that and scored quite a lot of points =)

Another highlight of the orientation was the story between the SC Board of Directors against the evil emperor Momo. They actually made Videos, Parades, Skits to suit the theme of the Superheros against Momo. Pretty much effort put in, I must say. However, I found it kind of childish though. Nonetheless, I applaud them for their hard work.

Till the end of the day, we were still learning Mass Dances. Altogether 6 of them to master by 8pm, where we will be heading off to Suntec's Fountian of Wealth. They were really complicated moves though.

Upon release, the VS people did the anthem as usual as well as the norm VS Spelling Cheer. Enthusiasm was high; I managed to record it down. Then the cedarians decided to start off their cheers too haha.

We then left for Suntec via 196. The bus was totally owned by Victorians. Imagine the public staring at us for making the whole lot of noice.

~~Shall continue about the Suntec mass dance later. My friends are coming to practice mass dance now. BRB!!~~

(added on 9.25pm) Woot, today Mao Lin, Ann Siong and See Kiat came over and we practiced mass dance. Had much fun together figuring out and trying to recall the moves. We managed to almost-perfect 'Whiney Whiney', esp. with the help of the steps explanation we obtained. We also practiced 'I want you', and we were lost after the chorus. Ended up playing DOTA hahaha.

Ok, now back to Suntec. The journey on the bus 196 was an enriching experience, as we got to interact with Tina better. Our OGL Tina was pretty much a center of attraction. The J1s blasted her with lots of question, undoubtedly irritating her.

Terence: "Next year will you still be in an IP class or will you join the rest of the J1s in your batch?"
Tina: "We will join the J1s from our batch."
Terence to OG: "Hey guys, next year we all become her OGL, then bully her ok?! Haha"
Tina: NOOO!!!

Hahaha.... Then we talked about 'JTS' (Haha, dun tell ya what this is, come find out in VJ)! So Tiny was like "Hey no fair, so many of you here."

I later found out her birthday is the same as mine. It happened as she was announcing she will be turning sixteen soon (ya ritez, still young la). She didn't believe me of course, until I showed her my IC. =)

We had dinner together at KFC as an OG, whereby I met my long lost P.Sch friend, Joel Zhou. Still as mischievous as ever. Haha! We were later told the Mass Dance which was previously scheduled at 8pm would be postponed to 8.45pm.

Then, we walked up to the Fountain of Wealth, at 8.35pm, and were disappointed to find it raining. We took a ten minute rest under the shelter located under the fountain. Then we decided to carry on with the Dance, as the rain subsided, turning into light drizzle.

Apart from not being familar with the dance steps, the mass dance was great. Started off with the "Whiney Whiney", and even "Yo-VJC" cheer... wow. Imagine the spirit. So many on-lookers turned to watch our performance. I really can't describe this feeling, but it's just great.

Not long after, there was a long line of human train going round and round the fountain. I believe it's started by VS people as I see many VS people in the queue. I was dragged in though, and went on running with them since then.

We choo-choo-train-ed to another part around the fountain, where the "Friendship Dance" started. As I was pretty far from my OG, I had to look for another partner. As the VS people were together, it would be wierd to dance with another guy, so I realised I had to look for another female partner. (Lol, some VS guys danced that together) Thank goodness there was a group of girls around, and they invited us to dance with them. One girl kinda urged me to go over, so I went over. Felt a little pai sei at first, but she seemed very friendly. After the dance, we exchanged names/class, and I can't believe I patted her on her shoulders and said "nice meeting you". Perhaps the 'male' instinct?? Her friend beside kept shouting "ask for his name, ask for his name!!" It was then I decided to leave, lest .....(you know) haha.

Choo-choo train went on for quite a while, then some people started running down one level to the fountain at the basement, and started splashing water at one another. I went to join them, and met Law, addison and peeps. Addison kicked water and me, making me half wet. Not long after, the security guard came and chased us off lol. It was really really fun !

(Here is a video of what happened. Sorry for the lousy quality, and it was taken using my handphone)

Then, I ran back up to the fountain at ground level. That was when I was greeted with another surprise. I saw my OGL Tina and her bf. And this bf of hers is my lower secondary classmate from VS. Haha. So much for surprises. Wait till I blackmail Tina with this!

Oh well, we have had so much fun. If only everyday was like this in VJC... =)

Orientation (Day 3)

2006-01-05T23:05:00.000+08:00

Woah, as the 3rd day arrives, VJC's beginning to transform into a super crazy, madness, enthusiatic place. Woot!

Morning started off boring, talk by some teacher about Project work. Can't believe i actually dosed off sitting down. Woke up right after she finshed. Ok, then here comes the climax of the year....

The OGLs then performed the Friendship Dance. I was totally stunned by its move. How can this be called friendship dance!? Wth, it should be called Couples' Dance. The worst came... We were told to pair with a girl... and dance... dotz !

And so I see many shy faces, both guys and girls lining up, and we had to like dance those mushy mushy moves slowly step by step. Well, let me try to give you an idea how the dance's like.

Guy Kneel Down
Girl slaps guy, guy falls
Guy gets up, turn around
Chee Cheong Fun (Girl rolls into Guy)
Twirl girl around
Palms together...
Cha Cha, Tango
Mash Potato (Man I seriously don't know how to describe this one, it's most gay of all, with the eye contact with the girl!) Wait till you see it for yrself.

Yup, above just a brief outline of part of the dance steps, can't really remember all. I was paired up with this girl, who's also super pai sei. Actually I wasn't the only one la. Looked around and saw many pai sei guys and girls also. Ya la, I never actually touched a girl's hands before... and ahhh... to think I had to do such intimate moves... ahhh !

After that we had lunch together, then OG session, which we chose the treehouse. Pretty nice setting though, and bonded much closer with the OGLs and teammates. These 2 OGLs for the session are great (Tiny wasn't there), shared lots of stuff and got the ball rolling. Then we went for a college tour, after which I still cannot remember most of the places.

Then mass dance again, and we were taught the Tribal Dance. The moves were cool (at least not like friendship dance). I've still not perfected it yet lol.

Then at night went dinner at parkway with my OG. Woah, this was when I realised how crazy my group are. We made hell lot of noises at Yoshinoya and we were almost kicked out of the place. Then we saw this Canon booth who offered to take a group picture for us! Kinda funky. Then our OG head, Allen, went for this surfing board competition (by Canon) which could win him a Canon printer. Couldn't beat the highest score of 4 mins though. lol.

Following which we went to the block of estates nearby and played some group games. Pretty fun, at least much more interactive than the ones played in VJ hall. Oh haha, left pretty late... A pretty funky day too... =)

Looking forward for tmr's mass dance at Suntec. Catch us at 8pm, Musical Fountain !!!

Orientation Day 2

2006-01-05T22:26:00.000+08:00

ok, i've to admit, i've begun to enjoy VJC more and more as the days past by...

Day 2

Yup, that was yesterday...

Having selected my subject combination, I got posted to 06S61. Woah, talk about efficiency ! Only sad that so far no good friends are in my class. I just hope that got one nice VS friend and ya, good looking girls in my class =)

Day 2 begun much more better. With the teaching of the college anthem, I kinda feel so proud being an ex-VS victorian. The VS peeps kinda rox-ed the place. I felt kinda sad singing the anthem though, I couldn't help but miss VS. so much...
when i kinda remembered the days I sung the anthem during Mondays at the 5th storey parade square...

OG Games were as usual... lame and boring. You know, making you act like some chicken little? lol. Yup, except for some. There was this thing about longest breath and largest ego competition. Kinda entertaining though. But I was actually kinda praying hard I wouldn't be sabortaged up the stage. Not only will I get stage fright, I'm gonna turn jelly with so much attention (from esp. the girls) on me.

Then was CCA walkabout. I actually signed up for many stuff.

IComp
Softball
Outdoor Activities Club
Piano Ensemble
Students' Council

lol. God knows how I'm gonna cope. Think I might have to drop a few. Speaking about council, I'm feeling kinda skeptical about it. It's not that easy; campaigns, making speeches and stuff. Though I've had a little bit of experience in VS (I was already shivering during the speech for MC Invest.), imagine now making a speech in front of a 2k population + girls !! I'm not sure if I'm actually gonna go for it, despite positive comments from VS peeps and OGLs. Oh well, take one step at a time.

Yup, and VJC's really super funky. There were actually fake CCAs put up, like what Personal Grooming club, Rock Band, Biking, Skating. Woah, they sounded real convincing!

"50% all shampoos and cosmatic products!"

"Come join, we teach you how to talk to girls!"

"Come join us, we will teach you how to skate like a pro!"

Haha, so many people got tricked and signed up for it. Fortunately, I wasn't one of these people. So when many of them found out later, they went back and tried to cancel their name off the list, which backfired; as seniors blacklisted these people for the forfeit later. So many people who signed up for any of these were like feeling so lost after finding out. Imagine their faces when I told them that last year's forfeit was to change the shorts with someone on stage. Haha !!

After that we had mass VJ cheering session. Most of these were kinda similar to VS's. Just that the "VS" has been changed to "VJ". I kept forgetting to change the lyrics and instead kept on repeating "We for, we for VS!!" , "Hey guys move it on, VS gonna take you on". Sigh, I really miss VS. I wonder when will I get used to VJC.

And ya, there was new cheer "Yo, VJC!". We J1s cheered well and loud (probably cause we had like 1k ppl in an enclosed hall?!) I realise I couldn't bring out that enthusiasm in me. I didn't cheer as loud. My soul's still in VS. I'm not used to cheering with the girls. Let alone lead cheers, despite the urge to actually stand out to lead them.

I believe this was the climax for the day. VJC Mass dance. Woah, it's really really really cool man ! The feeling of dancing with everybody was great, just that some moves were really complicated, and it's pretty hard to keep up with the fast beat. We started off with the supposedly simplest dance, "Whiney Whiney!" I'm seriously looking forward to it again!!

Following which was a much faster dance, with more complicated moves. It was the Neutron Dance. Wow, this one i really had a problem. Need more practice liao. Yup, that's pretty much the end of day 2. lol...

Orientation...

2006-01-04T22:50:00.000+08:00

Man... I've got to blog about this. It's gonna be something to remember for life...

Day 1

You bet, stepping into an unfamiliar environment, was indeed a hell lot of a shock. Although there were like so many people that I recognise, there were only so few in my OG, Animagus. Then was split up into smaller leagues called Airedale.

Day 1 was hell of torture. First time stepping into a school with girls in 10 years. I actually kinda tried to communicate, but it's kinda didn't work out. So I decided to keep my mouth shut. Then later found out they were from IP... (didn't know that IP peeps were orientating with us?)

Then later came another shock, my OGL came and announced that she is from IP, so actually younger than us. So my league's ppl seemed to lose morale. Had this urge to kinda bring up their morale, but decided to keep low since there are girls around, and I don't know anyone that well anyway..... so it's kinda boring throughout...

Subject Combination Briefing re-confirmed that I'm taking the Phy, Chem, Maths, Econs course. =)

Ice breaker games were pretty wierd too, except whacko duh. Probably because I don't know the people in my group very well yet. Kinda disappointed...

And tell you what, I might elaborate and continue Day 2 tmr, I need to go slp now to prepare for day 3... ciao.

2006 ?

2006-01-02T10:34:00.000+08:00

Sia la, it's 2006 already. And worse, tomorrow's still schooling day. Bet lots of kids in Singapore must be moaning...

It's rather saddening to see holidays ending so soon. Cannot sleep late to play games, have to wake up early. This sure is one hell of torture.

Schooling has never been a problem for me. It's the changes which totally freaked me out. Having been in a single-sex school for the past ten years, I seriously dunno how I'm gonna adapt to this culture shock. Imagine the mass dances (with girls !?), the interactions (with girls !?), doing project work (with girls !?), sitting in the same class (with girls !?). How am I gonna survive this?

I got to think on the brighter side. At least I got into VJC for the first 1 1/2 months; where I am located close to VS, where most of my friends are, where "thy sons are we" still stands.

Worse, I'm facing a crisis with my subject combinations. It's totally brain wrecking for the Science stream people. Most people from my class take 3x science for O Levels, yet we have to choose only two sciences (thanks to MOE regulation). So most people are choosing either Chem/Bio or Chem/Phy. Of course with an additional discordance for the contrasting subject (Geog or Econs or History). For me, it's worst, I have to consider another option: The Computing course.

My available options:

Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Economics
Maths, Chemistry, Physics, Economics
Maths, Physics, Computing, Economics

Tmr's the deadline, and I still have no idea what to choose... Sigh.

This holiday was a rather fulfilling one. Having so much fun with no homework. Unfortunately, much of my agenda could not be completed. The heritage gallery site is still not completed, due to some unexpected delays. IT freelance Job was also unsuccessful. Even making of my new blog via wordpress couldn't be worse. I can't seem to import my own design into wordpress.

Sigh...

holidays

2005-12-13T01:16:00.000+08:00

im so freeking sorry for allowing so much dust to accumulate here. Many apologies for allowing the dust to blow into your faces upon visiting. Time to do some spring cleaning at 1.33 am now.

This holiday of mine is pretty wierd. Ups and downs. But one thing's for sure - SLACK. Everything is totally under control, or so I thought.

Actually, I'm a rather busy man. There's like so much thing to do with so little time. For once, I know I must fully enjoy this holiday of mine. However, I'm still stuck with IT Club advisory role (currently overseeing Camp, E-learning, NEWDC). There's been a big hoo-har regarding the e-learning, and apart from mentioning having to also be a mediator, it would be rather inconvenient to discuss issues here.

Next on schedule is also the Heritage Centre Website. Currently working on beta: http://heritage.vs.moe.edu.sg/ Just received news from Mr. Khoo things need to be changed. Looks like I'll have to make a trip down to school this Wed. Hopefully at the same time I can help oversee IT Club's camp/e-learning.

Also have to complete a Monitors' Council 2005 report together with Chengwei...

Ai ya, sianz, i go slp liao. tmr's another long day.. Need to go and change that stupid router of mine.. sigh... continue tmr k?

time?

2005-11-28T22:13:00.000+08:00

I really dunno wad to type. Just typing aimlessly, letting whatever comes to mind here to be imprinted here. Hoping my fingers coordinate well with my mind...

Man, I thought I better start posting something lest it rots.

I don't know how to start? It's been 10 days since the end of the O Levels.

Time seems to fly especially now. Doing nothing related to acadamics seems too comfortable, or so I hope. Not forgetting my self-inflicted relations with work. Having taken up the role of an advisor for E-learning and camp, and on going council related meetings, websites projects, the finalisation of EDGE Project and not forgetting the Victorians Day preparation. I will be having a packed-up holiday as expected, a full-filled one.

I can only vagely recall my experiences for the past 10 days. Perhaps the mind decided to shut down after the slackish behavior following the trauma from the examinations.

Apart from engaging in countless DOTA battles, going Orchard, touring Singapore, the EXPO for the SITEX 05, I have also been involved in the MC Farewell. It turned out pretty fun; despite the gift being simple and cheap, it is a much more meaningful gift that other white elephants, for it encompasses the spirit, the times we spent together. Thanks you guys.

E Maths

2005-11-11T16:19:00.000+08:00

(Out of respect and sake of anonymity, I will not be naming anyone in this post)

Last night was a rough and stormy night. Slept early at 10pm, thinking that I will be prepared for tomorrow's mathematics paper...

Until 1am when I suddenly started sweating profusely. I experienced the excruciating pain from the curry last night. Instead of getting myself up and ready for the exam, I had the night up with the runs. At least 3 times I remembered. Ok, things seemed gloomy at 4 am. I was wondering what I am going to do if I had needed to answer the call of nature during the 2 1/2 hr paper. And in addtion, it's the major examiniation, and I cannot miss it! Sigh.. life's like that.

Fortunately for me, I took two doses of really yucky-tasting doses of medication, and with a little medical oil, the pain subsided. Of course, this whole process drained me totally out of my energy. So my plan of getting energetic for the paper backfired. Oh well, life's so unexpected.

Today's paper turned out straightforward. Just that there were little tricky parts. Overall, the paper turned out easy, which all of my Secondary 4 pals found likewise. Even someone had the cheek to say "Haiz yo, to think we could actually spent 4 years studying E Maths to take a paper like this."

However, this phenomenon actually worries me. The simplicity of the paper freaked me out. This means that if everybody finds it easy, and people like me tends to make ultimately stupid and careless mistakes, it will put me at a disadvantage. It might totally rob me of my A1 (just like A Maths during prelims). Sigh, better not get my expectations too high, might end up a big disappointment.

Today's officially halfway through our torment. And I have started to worry a lot. Recently, I began to feel the pressure about not being able to do as well as expected. Teachers, parents, peers, juniors alike, are all hoping to see me produce those wonderous results. For example, a teacher told me today, "Terence, make sure you get 6 points ah. We all depend on you, ~~*censored*~~'s reputation depends solely on you. Do us proud."

I begin to worry for many things. Like for example, due to time constrain, I actually wrote very fast during the Social Studies paper and the Biology essay. I am pretty worried that the marker (Sg/Cambridge) might not want to mark my paper for my horrendous handwriting and give me a zero for the whole question. This is despite knowing that I have done quite ok for Social Studies in context. I also worry about making careless mistakes for Mathematics, and even about losing marks for "spelling" mistakes, so on and so forth.

In addition to this issue, I was also discussing with my friends on this issue as well. And he told me, "Wa lau, people like you sure get 6 points one la!"

I have been told, "i think you're a very confident man... getting 7/6 wont be a problem." Subconsciously, all these adds up to my stress. The fear of not being able to achieve what's expected. Sometimes I would reflect on this and pounder. Being confident is one thing. It sets you out the right image you protray, allowing people to know that you have come well-prepared. However, I believe sometimes I may end up far off the pivot (meaning not balanced). Overconfidence and complacency can bring to one's downfall. (Lesson from Venice)

Worried. Fear. Anxiety. shall linger in me.

Biology

2005-11-10T20:31:00.000+08:00

Woah, today was one hell of a day. Biology papers started at 2pm, so had the whole morning to complete my biology syllabus. Well, for once i managed to read thr the whole freaking textbook of 380+ pages, and I managed to do that within a day and a night.

Well, just as I walked into the hall, reassuring myself that it shall be the final time I will have to undergo such torment (staying up whole night just to read boring bio stuff). Hence, today's wait for peaceful. My mind was clear...

The question paper for paper 1 came. And I was pretty surprised at its simplicity. The questions freaking simple like wth. Yet, I could still make one mistake for that stupid mosquito question. If everyone gets full marks, and I can lose miserable one mark, that puts me at a total disadvantage.

And then Paper 2 was a total contrast to Paper 1. The first question was about microorganisms and biotechnology. The question totally stunned me.

What I studied about cheese making was firstly, Streptococcus Thermophillus was added to create an anaerobic environment, such that the Lactobacillus Bulgaricus can respire anaerobically to convert milk sugar to lactic acid, which curdles the milk.

Yet the question was some enzyme added to curdle the milk. So I got totally confused and skipped the entire question.

Remaining questions were still ok, and till now I can't imagine myself not knowing how to spell "zygote". I hope Cambridge would accept "zygot". Questions about cloning also came out, then one was about the heart too. Pretty sure those who didn't study their text can totally flunk the paper.

I shall finish this post some time later, I better get started on Maths.

English

2005-11-09T14:29:00.000+08:00

Yeah, finally English's over. Quite tough though.

I was surfing the web 2 days ago and stumbered upon the Fairy Tale piano score. I have always liked this song and hence I downloaded it and printed it - to try it out.

"Woah, which crazy composer composes his songs in the F# major?"

F# major = 6 sharps - F#, C#, G#, D#, A# and E#

So I thought it will be a challenge for me to try out this crazy piece of work.

And since it's my major form of breaking out of my O levels stress mood, I have decided to upload here so that I can be reminded of it after my exams.

Here's the outcome though:

Do pardon my mistakes in the song, I aren't v good at it yet. Need to practice more.

Oh yes, for those who were asking me about the answer for the question on MSN...

If you noticed in the second pattern, it's somewhat similar to the first pattern, except the "1" is missing. Hence, its clear that:
1st number (2nd pattern) = 2nd number (1st pattern)
2nd number (2nd pattern) = 3rd number (1st pattern)
3rd number (2nd pattern) = 4th number (1st pattern)
and so on...

In summary, the sequence of the numbers in the 2nd pattern is just one step higher from the sequence of the 1st pattern.

So just add 1 to the 'n's.

Hence nth term = 1/2(n+1)(n+2)

that's how i got my answer. =)

The First Step

2005-11-08T08:54:00.000+08:00

As expected, the first step will turn out rather difficult.

Yesterday was the first paper, I was totally tensed up. Mathematics at 8am wasn't really that bad. The half an hour wait I could still stay pretty calm. And E Maths you bet, was totally no kick at all. The only thing im unhappy about the paper was the amount of space given for my workings. You want to mark my workings, and yet give us so little space?

Well, for Maths the only problem faced by most Secondary 4s is this question.

Number pattern: 1, 3, 6, 10, 15, 21, 28 ...
nth-term: 1/2(n)(n+1)

Number pattern: 3, 6, 10, 15, 21, 28 ...
Hence, find the n-term.

Why don't you try to solve it? Surprisingly, I managed to solve it, haha, shall reveal its answer in my next post.

After E Maths, we had a 3 1/2 hour break till Social Studies. Spent my time in IT Club room scrambling for more propaganda into my head. The time for death finally came, and we were as usual, supposed to sit in the hall half an hour before the paper.

I was freaking nervous during that period of time. I knew then I couldn't start the paper. I felt like throwing up, butterflies not only in my stomach, but my whole body. I suspect they infested my hands, and I felt numb. The stupid examiner was freaking smart, don't let us check the paper until the last 5 minutes.

Oh well, during checking of paper, when Sec 4s saw "Venice, rise and fall of a great city state", you bet half the hall was relieved. I was beaming from ear to ear, the tension in me reduced to 0. I looked around, and saw many people similing. Looks like we are in for a good time. As for those who studied all except those three topics... I offer my condolences. That's for being lazy and not study Venice due to its horrendous length.

Do or die

2005-11-06T20:58:00.000+08:00

It's just few hours away...

Why? The first step is always the most difficult. I'm sure it will turn out much better after tomorrow.

I received this Sms from Law, "Guys, this is it. 12 hours to the Os. 2 years we have waited for this moment... Rest early for tomorrow marks the beginning of the end. Good luck and good hunting... Let's make this one count."

Very very meaningful.

Freedom

2005-11-06T13:44:00.000+08:00

Oh give me a home, where the buffalos roam, where the deers and the antelope play...

It's only just 12 days away before the end of the troubles of all Secondary Fours. I know I have made ample preparations, despite having been relaxing this whole week. Apart from reading through the Social Studies textbook, I have been having sufficient sleep, catching up on my television, submerging in the world where you Defend the Ancients, and not forgetting my computer and MSN.

It's just a blink of an eye. I could clearly remember how we were prepared to go for the Leadership Training Camp 2004. Not forgetting how I was helping out at the Peer Leaders' Camp, and also the planning of the IT Club activities. Now, LTC 2005 will commence on the 15th, and peer leader's camp on the 11th. And even less than a year ago, I was at the Sec 3 camp. This transition is tremendous, despite being only in a short crisp one year.

Tomorrow is finally the start of the major written papers. Social Studies and Mathematics paper one. Everything has been prepared. It's finally time to enter the battlefield. This kinda feeling is unbelievable. It's like all preparations done for the past 4 years of my life will have to be presented in my top form in meerly less than a few hours.

There are no more rehersals, no more mock exams, no more school based do-badly-also-nevermind exams. It's the final CHALLENGE. "You are on your own."

Chinese !?!?!?

2005-10-29T17:04:00.000+08:00

AHHHHHHHHHH ! IM GOING NUTS. CHINESE CHINESE CHINESE WORDS ! SO MANY OF THEM ! HAVE TO COMPLETE WITHIN 4 DAYS. IMPOSSIBLE !

Hey Terence, think of the bright side man, after monday you won't touch chiense for the next 2 years !

Sigh! Yes, i'm turning crazy, higher chinese has lots more crap than express chinese does. So yeah. I'm worst off k? Wanted to go to open house today, but I decided not to lest it lags me furthur. I'm already lagging. One more day and 4 more bks to go !

Chemistry Practical

2005-10-25T17:42:00.000+08:00

Even so, I expected the truth. I would gladly accept your reasonings; why you might not want to tell me, or probably why you couldn't. At least... not some lie.

Chemistry practical turned out rather unexpected. Especially after the crappy biology papers last week. It was really easy. The answers to the questions were pretty obvious, even without attempting the solutions. The only controversy was whether solution "S" contained Zn²⁺ or Al³⁺ ions. Most got the Pb²⁺ ions in "T" due to bright yellow precipitate formed due to addition of Lead Iodide. "U" contained Ag²⁺ ions, but no one got that, as it was not required.

Hope I can ace this paper! =)

The only bad thing about being in the first shift is that you have to be quarantined for 4 hours. At least I learnt how to "bridge" during the 4 hours haha. And not forgetting to mention mingling around with ex-classmates (we have already graduated, haven't we?) like Law, Kenneth, See Kiat, Wilson, Darren and co.

Yeah, guess what, after the quarantine, it started raining... realliiiiheavily. It's like been years since it rained so heavily. Stuck in school, so I decided to walk around school, and caught Chengkai, George, Honghan, Nicholas, Calvin, Naresh... ya, and co. They were having an interview for the Sec 2s Potential Leaders. Decided to join in and ya; reminiscing of how excited we (Shu Xie, See Kiat, Evan, Roderick, Johnathan, ... ya and co.) were to go Mawai again. It's indeed time to pass the baton.

And tt's followed by a Big-2 gaming with Gary, Sean Tan and co. And dota with roy, law and lennard. Tt's so stupid. Ok, time to prepare for Physics Practical due in 2 days time. And I must do as well as my chem ! =)

Melancholy

2005-10-24T23:14:00.000+08:00

I couldn't bring myself to do much. Tmr's Chem. pract. Tt's like my strongest science, so no worries yet.

Sat in front of the piano for hours and played so aimlessly. Letting the different moods flow. I specially liked songs played in the minor form, which evokes the feelings of green and yellow.

These 2 songs suit my melancholy mood best, I had to play them over and over...

Nostalgy

Mariage D'Amour

Trust !?

2005-10-23T22:20:00.000+08:00

I have just finished another 2 games with Derick, and I trashed him flat TOTALLY. Well, tt's besides the point. These few days I'm hafing wierd mood swings too.

To A:
Reading your blog, this question appeared in my mind. "By blogging, do you actually want the attention, hoping people would read it, or would you prefer it to be kept personal?"

I'm not convinced. I know something's troubling you. It's fine if you have decided to keep things private (or probably confide in others). I thought I could help. I'm just pretty dissappointed at your responses despite us being rather close. Unless you think otherwise. Look's like ur forcing me to leave you alone. Well, perhaps I shall.

To B:
I asked you a question. You definitely knew the answer to it. I know what you know. I just hoped to see the significance of trust. I thought I could trust you. Yet... you acted as if you didn't know anything. You have just lied to me. My trust in you has been terribly breached.

It's evident that there is such hypocrisy (is this the right form?) happening around me. With people like him I'm probably gonna meet in JC again, it makes me think twice in entering the institution for another two years (provided I even make it). Shouldn't I consider a totally new environment?

Sigh !?

2005-10-22T23:44:00.002+08:00

It's yet another day of DOTA with Derick. I can't stop! Damn it ! Of course this time I trashed him flat. I really like this Razor Lightning Revenant, he's so cool. What keeps me going is the seductive scene of gaining a level-up, the golden light shimmering, engulfing your hero. The "Divine Rapier" which adds +250 attack to your hero, though costly and is dangerous (you risk losing the item to your enemy when you die) ! Well, guess I need to relieve stress too right? I hope I'm not giving excuses. After all there's still 1 1/2 weeks till start of real written papers?

There is this sense of disappointment... I really have the urge to question your bizarre thinking. You may think I might not know what's going on; I do, well at least a large fraction of it. Sigh... Nvm... Do what you think is right...

Stuck in the middle

2005-10-21T22:44:00.000+08:00

It has been a week since graduation, don't wish to say much lest the nostalgy comes back. Following which I found myself in TJC open house. Then it was VJC open house the following day. Things moving as per scheduled.

It's another week closer to the O Levels written papers. Took Bio pract last Tue, er.. it was... dun feel like commenting.

Been playing DOTA everyday via Lancraft with Derick everyday, it's really time to stop. I must stop. I must stop. I must stop. I must stop. I must stop. Oh man... it's gonna take sheer will and determination.

One month will be over soon...

And the Secondary Three's results were disappointing. Esp. those potential SLs. :'(
Well, you all better work hard during the holidays k?

There is something mystical about my workplace. Despite it being a sight of massive blend of worksheets, files, textbooks and stuff, it seemed more condusive than probably the library, or even perhaps what a classroom can offer. It's really an amazing sight; my daily chores are just the mundane mugging - and with me my laptop as my only source of breakaway from these chores. Considering such a sedentary lifestyle, my living room has become my favourite rendezvous, where I meet up with my piano. Let me present to you my destressing piece, Unchained Melody.

Arrggg... one month........ How to tackle the stress... "It will be over soon"

My last 5 days in school...

2005-10-09T14:46:00.000+08:00

Time flies. After having gone through so much hoe-har in school for the almost 4 years, it has finally boiled down to the final 5 days being an official Victorian. School life has somewhat been part of me, it feels weird having to part.

I spend my weekend reminiscing and reflecting on what I have gone through in VS. The struggles faced in CCA, attending the LTC, taking up of leadership role and responsibilities, getting injured in Sec 3 Camp, life as a student leader, standing out from the crowd, the camaraderie and even muggin like crazy for exams. I can't imagine the change in environment in just a couple of days time. And yes you bet, every second was worth it.

You might think I'm sad about this, but no... you are wrong. I am gonna be very very very very very sad about it. I can't picture myself this coming friday. sigh.

In the last 5 days remaining, I've decided that I'm gonna take shots of scenes of school life. I will be archiving videos and pictures of Sec 4D life. Catch me with my camera dudes !
This has been something I longed to do, but thanks to Zhenyi who borrowed my camera for the past 3 weeks to do his DNT project, I was hindered.

Anyway, I was reading Chris's blog, and came across something interesting.
Go to http://littleblackboy.blogspot.com/ and check it out yourself, look for post "Holy boy" and read th part about the MRT incident and his oral. Ciao !

Plant beings...

2005-10-06T21:05:00.000+08:00

Is there really such things as plant beings on earth? The X-files show is really cool!

There is only ONE FINAL WEEK left for us Sec 4s being official Victorians in Victoria School. After this week, there will be no more chance of sitting in the hall/auditorium for assembly, no more singing of the school anthem with the rest of the school, no more sitting in the classrooms and no more reception of punishments given by the teachers. I was looking back at past posts written few months ago (on blog); I was actually worrying that this day would come, and here it is. :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

Anyway, I was helping with the pictures to be flashed on Graduation Day. Having seen the pictures of us Sec 4s when we were in Sec 1, I was shocked to see the transformation in us. Physically, mentally, we have undoubtly matured over the years. Sigh, if only time could move backwards. I want to experience everything again !

There is only a week left to experience life in school. I should attempt to try out some things which I may not have done before in the 4 years in school, such as getting punished by teachers? Imagine yourself a Sec 4 being paraded outside class (eg. on a Wednesday like 5th Oct). Wouldn't it be exciting?

I picture myself standing outside my class, after having made a nuisance in biology class. Then I picture that pathetic state I will be in, constantly worrying that Mr. Chia or the Monitors' Council Teacher IC would walk past, leaving me with lots of explanation and following up to do. I picture other Sec 4 monitors (eg. Dennis) walking past with the puzzled face, and classmates (and teacher's) jubilant expressions upon seeing my "malu"ed face. Imagine the teacher who sent me out saying, "It's ok Terence, there will always be a first time. I also used to send the Head Prefect out before!"

Hmmx, 6 school days left. What more can I experience? I want to make time spent in VS a fulfilling one. Suggestions?

Btw, Happy Birthday to Han Teng (Today) and Chengwei (Tomorrow) !

Exams are unexpected

2005-09-28T19:08:00.000+08:00

Just as I was brooding about having unexpected A2s yeterday... bringing down my score L1R5 by so much... Missing every subject by so little to perfection...

English, missed A2 by 0.9%
A Maths, missed A1 by 1.8%
Biology, missed A1 by 2.5%
Chemistry, missed A1 by 2.5%
Humanities, missed A1 by 2.5%

Moderation, English +1 to A2, Humanities to A1, Biology to A1, Chemistry to A1, A Maths to A1.

At least my hopes into VJC's still not dashed. But, I must not forget where i truely stand...

Lesson learnt: Exams ARE unexpected...

The Prelim Results

2005-09-27T16:58:00.000+08:00

Today we got back our Prelim Results. Revealing them will be so much of a shame. I was pretty far from target. Well, lesson learnt: Examination results are kind of unexpected. The unexpected WILL happen. It has happened to me, it's aftereffects are already haunting me...

The days going by...

2005-09-24T22:48:00.000+08:00

Decided to remove radio.blog for the time being. It's getting kinda noisy in here. In the meantime, I will just borrow any nice mp3s as bg music...

It's yet another day closer to the O Levels Examinations. Yet, the new school week after the prelim examinations have been a pretty slack one. Reported back in school on Wednesday. Lessons went on as per scheduled on new timetable, just much much pretty slack than before the prelims. Teachers are coming in to express their disappointment in our examination results. Results proved so bad that Mdm Nabilah was telling us that even if we can't make it into a JC of our choice for 1st 3 months next year, make sure we get started off with work somewhere else so that we can catch up later.

Friday, Sec 4D and Sec 4A were officially released at 1035. Seriously wondering why we actually get the privilege of being released earlier compared to other classes, which are released 3 or 4 periods later. These two classes are not that good anyway... Just slightly better...

Unfortunately, Sec 4A had to stay back a little longer as their teacher requested for them to stay back for Humanities lesson. Secondary 4D instead, decided to enjoy themselves once more, making it the very last time prior to our release of Prelim results this coming Tuesday. A group of 10+ of us decided to make some full use of the early dismissal to grab lunch at bedok, before heading off to unwind ourselves and prepare for the tormenting day on Tuesday. And so we did, focusing on CS and DOTA followed by a short game of Pool. After that, we swore we will meet again for another challenge after the O Levels, making an individual self-proclaim of not indulging ourselves in such entertainment till then.

Here goes our fate this coming Tuesday (Release of Prelim results):
0740 - 0815 : Physics
0815 - 0850 : Biology
0850 - 0925 : E Maths
0925 - 1000 : A Maths
1000 - 1035 : English
1035 - 1100 : Recess
1110 - 1145 : SS/Geography
1145 - 1200 : Chemistry
1220 - 1330 : Biology Practical

And BTW, you guys should check out my new haircut. It's pretty cool for $5 !

Also, found this link on Sian Ying's blog. It's a pretty cool MTV made purely from flash. Details are great, technicals are wonderful. Totally impressive. Hope I can make one of these to sell after my Os too.
http://www.koreus.com/files/200408/radiohead_creep.html

VS is now a band 1 school

2005-09-21T22:09:00.000+08:00

VS's gotton herself into Band One. Wow...
You might be able to view MOE's press release here.

In fact, it's really a million thanks for our Sec 4 batch last year. They were indeed an extraordinary one, one that comes in a million years. Before their batch, VS had been going on a downhill, just that the hill's gradient was not showing its impact yet distinctly. It was only after years of accumulation of destruction before cognizance was taken. Till now, much damage was done; Question is "How well will my Sec 4 batch do this year?"

The O Levels are just 40 days away starting from today, work should have already been started and on going. I find it hard to keep going, especially when the Prelims have just ended. I seemed to know all my work at my fingertips, yet on the otherhand I feel insecure. How am I supposed to sustain myself until 18th November? Sigh !

Today, school was pretty short for the Sec 4s. We were dismissed like at 1220. I stayed back in school to clear my Dan Brown book, until 2.30 to meet Ms Tang. (Now to think of it, I haven't read a single story book for the past 4 years, this was my first!! I'm glad I got started.) She actually treated me to a Milo drink over our solemn discussion over certain Monitors' Council issues that took over an hour. Won't be revealing anything here, it's certainly too public.

Anyway Weng Keong, would you be interested in joining MC and see how Exco is run? Haha !

The Fetish Advertisement

2005-09-20T20:20:00.000+08:00

I mean wow! Look at this! I have seen many interesting advertisements before, like those santas sitting at the back of our SBS buses, but never something like this at all.

This gigantic 3D advertisement is situated at a bus stop in Tampines (compare it with the woman in the picture). It's a ubiquitous potato chip packet found usually in every tibits shop. As I was walking towards it, I could already feel its 'presence'. It somewhat gave me the nostalgia of munching the Jack & Jill chips. Indeed, it was fetish yet successful. If its not for my examination sake (I don't want to get too heaty), I would have gone round the corner to grab a packet of chips. So guys, you know what to look out for, do you?

Anyway, the preliminary examinations are finally over. Just within these two days, I'm so glad I completed the following activities as on agenda:

Pool
4 hrs Lan gaming
Movies
Arcade
Up-ed my score for Minesweeper Flags
Started with MapleStory
Embarked on reading Dan Brown's Digital Fortress

The best part was to chill out with friends for each of those activities. Without any doubt, I'm now all perked up and mentally disposed for my final battle. Now it's back to serious work...

Explicit Behavoir

2005-09-17T15:47:00.000+08:00

I was in a food court nearby my house at approximately 2pm just now. I happened to be sitting at the right hand corner, and was fortunately given a good view of this incident.

Opposite my table, there was a mother with her daughter (approximately 7 yrs old), and they were happily feasting on their food. To the table adjacent to theirs, there was a boy, who seems to be doing something so darned explicit. His head was streched up like a giraffe, and he kept staring in the direction of the little girl (who was sitting directly opposite of him).

Instead of sitting down properly like how a girl should protray her image, she was actually squatting on the stool; she was rather short for the table though. If I wasn't mistaken, that teenager was trying to peep under her skirt. Thank goodness her mother wasn't aware of it.

But No... not long after, this has caught her mother's attention, who then stared back at the boy. The boy, caught unaware, was continuing in his eye-watering feast. Feeing assertive about her negative impression on the boy, she started to make a fuss out of the whole thing. Luckily for this boy, it wasn't the peak hour then, hence there weren't many people there. Otherwise he would have been embarrassed furthur.

The girl's mother did not seem to be planning to go easy on that teenager, whose food was yet untouched on his table. Her articulations seems to be going on an acute crescendo, as if she wants the whole world to know about this. This has indeed started to attract attention; everyone started staring at our direction. Even the dish collectors were dragged in.

Her curses and swears went on a sostenuto, as the boy was frantically trying to defend himself. Just as I thought he was getting into serious trouble, an anti-climax happened. Another boy, also around his age, walked in, and addressed the commotion. Then, with composure, he went up to the girl's mother and said, "Excuse me madam, but I think you might have been mistaken. My darling here wouldn't do such a thing; we are truely in love with each other. He wouldn't be interested in your girl's er hm."

Then, unexpectedly, he gave that boy a kiss, grabbed his hands and walked off; his untouched chao kway tiao was left behind, leaving the dish collector confused (should she clear his food?) The woman's screechings went on a sudden diminuendo. Everyone was stunned but the turn of events. I mean, how often do you get to experience such incidents? & who actually wants to peep at a girl so young? OMG?

Now that preliminary exams have ended, its time to make plans.
I hope to get below 9 points to get to VJC for my first 3 months. As what my seniors said, VJC is meant to be for VS, so everyone must strive to get there. VJC will be the best choice, for it is said to be an institution where students play hard and study hard. Yeah baby !

My optimistic target:
English - A2
Comb. Humanities - A2
A. Maths - A1
E. Maths - A1
Chemistry - A1
Biology - A2
Physics - B3
Higher MT - A2
Chinese - A2

I need my 9 points ! If not haiz... where else can I go?

*The above story was a made up btw... just another inspiration to do a narrative. lol. haha... hope u enjoyed it.

Post Exam Menstrual

2005-09-16T21:34:00.000+08:00

The preliminary examinations are finally over, for most of the Secondary Fours that is. I wouldn't dare say all is over, after all the O Levels Exams are still 6 weeks away. As for me, my prelim's yet offically ended, for there's still Higher Mother Tongue paper left on Monday.

Hmmx, how to study for Higher Mother Tongue. The number of volcabulary words to study is too much. There's no way I am going to study all the 8 books of volcabulary + 250 idioms. I might just flip through the pages and hope I'm lucky enough to spot erm. After all, why bother to learn (300 * 8 + 250 = 2650) chinese volcabulary for just 35 marks?

For the past examination week, I have had undergone the worse phase in my life. Biology was just yesterday (Friday).

Biology is content heavy. I studied content from 9am all the way till 4 am (that's 19 hours of studying) yet still couldn't complete everything. Biology paper one turned out surprisingly easy. It was paper two that was purposely set up to murder us. The entire paper 2 Section A was totally outside the text. To think of it, it wasn't worth sacrificing my sleep the night before.

For example, most of us didn't know our sexual reproduction produces mucus. Never even heard before in my life. Not even did textbook said anything about this. Moreover, I haven't even copulated before. Hence, I had to cock up something stupid, and in the end I wrote "Mucus was produced to reduce friction between the sexual organs during sexual intercourse." Hilarious? Anyway, it sounds logical; and I wasn't the only one who wrote this.

Question: How positive ions in de-odourant can kill saprophyes which release the fatty acids in fats.
*stunned !* Isn't this Chmistry?

Question: Describe how is yeast infection caused by the over use of some crappy medicine... which could produce an unpleasant odour from the vagina.
My Answer: Over use of the medicine kills all the bacteria which produces the acid. Without the acid to control growth of yeast, yeast starts to respire anaerobially in the vagina and hence causes the smell (I almost wanted to write the yeast corrodes the vagina cells !!!)

How am I supposed to know why bacteria in the vagina produces an acid to prevent yeast infection. I don't even have a vagina, I don't experience it, neither have we studied the disease b4, how am I expected to answer?

Then they gave a picture of a boy with a super fat and huge legs.
Question: Why elephantitis is caused....
How am I supposed to know what elephantitis cause wad fat blockage of what lacteals??

Ok, enough of biology, its all over anyway... ~~I shan't name the settle lest I start scolding vulgarities.~~ (*I take back my words)

Other papers were fine... Wednesday we had Chemistry which was ok, though meant to be tricky by Mr. Wong. Could do almost all the questions, except MCQ which made tricky mistakes.

A. Maths on Tuesday turned out pretty cool too, I could do all questions except the one with the vectors. I suck at vectors, must start working on it for the O levels.

Except for Physics on Monday. That one I totally screwed it. Won't be talking about it. Wen Shu, I shall be buggin you about this...

Anyway, all the best to Sec 1-3s who are preparing for their forthcoming EOY exams. :-)

What is Stress?

2005-09-07T21:13:00.000+08:00

I received this from Sing Wei, thanks a lot! I would like to share this with my fellow Sec 4s. Everybody, JIA YOU !!

Stressed? When you feeling STRESSED and about to break down, just remember... STRESSED is just DESSERTS spelt backwards so Exams are just a piece of cake !

- Adapted from Sing Wei's enlightement

Today we had our Social Studies paper. Yes, most people spotted Venice to come out, and it DID ! So you bet most people will do well for the Structured Essay Question.

It came this way (if i recall correctly):

4a) How far did the exemplary political system lead to the rise of Venice in the 16th Century. Explain your answer.

4b) Was the incompetence of the Venetian leaders more damaging than their complacency? Explain your answer.

The problem lies with the Source Base Questions. I didn't have time to digest the sources, and hence answer the questions. Oh well, I just hope to do well for this paper. All the best ! Now needa focus on Geography...

Anyway, stress led me to this...

We were lying on the bassinet together, I took the initiative and grapsed my partner's hands firmly. Then, our hearts raced as we turned to face each other. I then reached out to touch the smooth slender fingers; the face, the snowy skin; they all felt so heavenly. My fingers unconsciously unfastened our button tops, which instantly, it went over and caressed my companion's front clammily. Following which, they moved our hands onto my chest. Droplets of prespiration trickled down our disrobed pubescent bodies, giving it an extra sense of embellishment. I could feel them converging into larger sweat globules as the rolled down my spine heavily. The air in the chamber started to turn warm and moist. The sound of our panted breaths echoed within the four corners of the room. I believe it was unanimous between both of us that this was the best time we have had together since. We then felt an even stronger sense of camaraderie bond between us. Suddenly, the idea of copulation started to liger throughout my mind. However. during these celestial moments, I had to consider all consequences. Underage coitus act's illegal by law, I had to take secure measures. I did not want this to leave a black mark in my life. I thought, abstinence is still the best policy...

E Maths

2005-09-05T16:28:00.000+08:00

Prelim's finally started. During our holidays that is. Most people don't like the idea of it being too draggy, but for me, I think otherwise. We have a break tomorrow, and we will only be taking Social Studies paper on Wednesday. I think this is cool. It gives stupid people like me more time to prepare for my humanities.

Generally, today's Mathematics paper was pretty all right. Paper 1 was rather easy, except for a few careless (and i mean careless !!) mistakes that cost me at least 5 marks (out of 80)!!

Paper 2 (I felt) was indeed challenging. It's mind sapping !! Compared to past yr's VS Prelim papers, i think this year's one's really tough. I do no have sufficient time to finish the paper, and also due to skipping of some questions, I have already lost approximately 15 marks (out of 100).
During the exam, I was like half dead. Imagine a 4 and a half hour paper (there is a 1 hr interval between paper 1 and 2) to secure 180 marks (which works out to scoring 2/3 marks in a minute). It's no simple feat.

During paper 2, I spent an hour (out of 2 1/2 hours) only completing only four questions (out of 10) ! My, wasn't I nervous? Had to rushed through the rest of the paper within the next 1 1/2 hrs ! Even so, most answers turned out to be funny numbers... (I'm sure most Sec 4s feel insecure too?)

Now for some self-delusion, to make me feel better. I think losing 20 marks out of 180 isn't that bad right? But I was told to get an A1, I need to score at least 91% in the O Levels. How true is this?

Oh yeah, on my way to the examination hall this morning, I was poundering over this question:

Is 0.99999999999... = 1 ?

Here's the theory though:

Let x be 0.99999999999...
Hence, 10x = 9.99999999999...
10x - x = 9.99999999999... - 0.99999999999...
9x = 9
x = 1

So, Is 0.99999999999... = 1 ?

Biology Practical

2005-09-02T17:37:00.000+08:00

Woah, Bio Practical kinda killed me.

Upon entering the lab... phew, nothing on the tables for drawing. No fruits, no vegetable. Yeah !!

Until... Yeek !!! What! I have to draw this puny little thing (with a needle stuck through its head) !? Its a cockraoch? No no, its a cricket! (Some speciments are still alive and kicking you know!)

Bet if VS's a co-ed school, I would have heard lota screams from the girls!

Then, what do crickets eat? I wrote aphids. Got tricked by the three level thophic level crap. & how can crickets be herbivorous? Look at their mouth piece.

Draw the dorsal part? Means what? Whole thing or backside? Common sense tells me its backside, but the photo shows that dorsal is the whole thing. Hack la, draw whole thing.

& The smell of yeast stinks, and I really meant STINKS. I felt queasy. I was sneezing like mad throughout the whole experiment; couldn't concentrate. Everyone was staring at me.

How to do an experiement anaerobically? Cover the test tube la !? Its wrong though.

Ok, fine! I admit defeat !

How much more can I screw up ?

Teachers' Day? English?

2005-08-31T00:00:00.000+08:00

It's been past 12 midnight, it's now the eve of teachers' day. I have just completed whatever's necessary to be done for celebration of teachers' day in approximately 6 hours time. I have to prepare the gifts for my teachers, part of the job is to be done on behalf of my class. I was printing the names on the envolopes that I realised I had actually bought 1 card less for the 7 teachers. Ahh ! Was in a dilemma which teacher I should omit. Decided to draw lots though... You see, it was only in the afternoon that we(Kian Sin, See Kiat, Ray Hng, Johnathan) went to parkway to purchase these gifts. Last minute...

Oh well, hope every thing turns out fine for the "Pamper your teachers" session. Not like as if no one knows how notorious Sec 4D can be. Many of whom, possessing self-centeredness, might end up not bothering about anything, but only things that benefits themselves. Hope my welfare head knows what he is doing, and has planned what to do, to salvage whatever calamity which I think we might not be able to evade.

Hope that the Monitors' and Prefects' could put up a good show during the concert. (Pls dun disgrace us, will be v embarrassing if you guys cock up. So George, Calvin and Jarren, all the best!) Will be looking forward to that, as well as the song dedication thingy.

Oh yes, side tracking to another issue, yesterday (Tue, 30th Aug) I took my English Prelim papers 1 and 2. Paper one was a report about working and also a discussive titled "Should parents restrict children from computer gaming? What are your views?" Shouldn't pose a problem, should it? It's my niche , luckily.

Paper 2 was the real killer. Drifting through the 1h 45min duration, I was merely staring at pure text. The passage was depicting issues about myths and wars. Not my niche in the first place.
Comprehension? What comprehension? I couldn't understand 60% of the passsage despite reading it thoroughly for at least 25 mins before attempting the first question. I even resorted to digesting the information sentence by sentence. Yet it proved much to be true.

What's more's the "chim" volcabulary used. Just when I feared most, the summary question came. Not only I could not identify the points, I could not even transpose the words. Words I didn't understand, words I couldn't pronounce. It seemed as though it could recognise me, while it doesn't prove true the other way round. It appears to be laughing at me, critising me as a stupefied, dense, deficient, thickheaded, foolish, dodo person. I really hoped the points I (any-o-how) underlined came in appropriate. If I did well, its gonna be sheer tyco-ism. But it's my L1, it's counted for Prelims L1R5, what can I do?

Upon entering Jeremy He's (Currect classmate, Sec 4D) blog, I saw my big fat name staring back at me. Let me quote you what he said.

Quoteterence lim. this guy right. was born on the same day as me, a couple of hours before. in the same hospital. tell me the likelihood or probability of someone like that, ending up in the same school, same class. i won't go into the academics, but we're quite the same. weird. haha was thinking, we should like gather all the 17jan'ers and review what we have become. all born with a clean slate, and the same chance in life - comparing what we have made of it.

- Quoted from Jeremy He, http://spiritedflame.blogspot.com

All I can say is, Jeremy, you rock. You evoked exactly what I have had always wanted to say about our births. I cannot disagree with anything you said. Now, I conclude we even think alike; What co-incidence. Does similarties in birth bring about similar fates?

P.S. Oh yea Jer, I found out another person who has the same birthdays as us, from Sec 4E, Syed Khalid Aljahsyi B M. Let's go find out about his fate to make your conclusion, haha.

Who painted the moon black?

2005-08-30T18:21:00.000+08:00

Who painted the moon black - Hayley Westenra

Did you see the shiny moon.
Turned into a black balloon.
Just as you walked away from me.

Did you see how hard I've tried.
Not to show the pain inside.
Just as you walked away from me.

Who painted the moon black?
Just when you passed your love back.
Who painted the moon black?
Oh won't you, won't you come back?

It must have been the darkest night.
Not even a star in sight.
Just as you walked away from me now.
Who painted the moon black?
Just when you passed your love back.
Who painted the moon black?
Oh won't you, won't you come back?

Who painted the moon black?
Just when you passed your love back.
Who painted the moon black?
Oh won't you, won't you come back?
Who painted the moon?
Did you see the shiny moon?
Turned into a black balloon.
Just as you walked away from me.

If you don't mind me narrating my story...

Last night at 9.30pm, I was on the way home from Admiralty MRT station. There was this HUGE crowd of people stuck at the exit. See the crowd on the right? They were at a lost, don't know what to do. Guess what happened?

Notice the following?

1) The 'ubiquitous' "Green Arrow" / "Red Cross" has disappeared.

2) All gantries are open.

Deduce what might have happened.

And touch the sound of silence...

2005-08-27T11:16:00.000+08:00

And specifically to my current MC Vice-chairman, remember what I told u. The space has been reserved for you, I want to see how you take it up. I do want to see you excel, after all you left me a very good impression ever since i got to know you. I still remember the day before the MC general meeting, you smsed me "Snr Terence, is there a general meeting tomorrow?". When I thought you were asking about LTC general meeting, I was like "Huh!?". Until you replied "Yeah, I am chosen as a monitor, surprised?" See how time flies.

And to my direct MC pre-descendant, hope you know what's right & what's to be done. Do make the changes with due effect as possible, you know what i mean. After all, you are taking up ANOTHER leadership position. Better prove yourself to be much more capable.

It's finally another weekend, which means one week closer to the Prelims. Or should it be one week closer to the end of Prelims. The Prelims have started, last Thursday, where we had our Chemistry Practical.

Gas evolved: Was it Oxygen, Chlorine, Hydrogen, Carbon Dioxide, Sulphur Dioxide or Iodine?
Wow, one question got the whole Secondary 4s into a wild goose chase.

Potential list for Senior leaders 2005/2006 has just came out. I just can't understand why it has to be released so early. We the SLs have only just finished discussing the names on that day it was released. No doubt, there was a controversy during the selection, for we have too many good JLs. In conclusion, I personally feel that not everyone on list deserves the prestidge. Either they have yet proven themselves to me, be it capability, attitude wise, or academics wise (there are execptions though), or have not shown enough leadership qualities.

Even those few whom I think deserve to be selected could not have their names sustained through the final barrier, due to one reason or another.

Anyway, all the best to the selected few, you still have your Final year exams to prove yourselves. You need those A1s to remain as an active student leader in Sec 4.

Mr Ang's Address

2005-08-22T22:14:00.000+08:00

Let me commence with the atmosphere during assembly today, as we were given a talk about the medical career. Secondary 4s gathered in the auditorium, we sang anthem "thy SONS are we" really with pride. We were all feeling excited and jubilent; giving us a sense of unity and brotherhood. Even the guest speaker was impressed by our spirit.

Mr. Ang addressed us on the Co-ed issue which has caused a cacophony of voices from past, present Victorians. In my opinion, he had given a very fair account. I can't remember everything he said, but i shall draft and summarise whatever i can recall.

As mentioned earlier, the issue is not closed.
Main issue here is not about VS going Co-ed, but instead, brainstorm ideas to ensure VS remains competitive in the changing education system.
In reality, results must be shown, not only CCA excellence, but an all-rounded.
Would parents choose a school because it is more value added / acadamically prestigious or because it's a single-sex school, or even tradition?
Mr. Ang stated that Co-education is only one of the ideas to be considered.
Mr. Ang had only sent out the email to all teachers to seek their opinions on the issue, for this is taking things systematically. First seeking the teachers', then the students and parents.
Unfortunately, information was leaked out.
VS is indeed suffering from a braindrain. If 100 applicants from Sec 2s flow out, who will be left (even to run our ccas; band, orchestra, choir). Something must be done.

Disclaimer: The points here are as what I have recalled, and I shall not be held liable for any mistake(s) in my recount above.

Social Studies Practice

2005-08-20T17:57:00.000+08:00

Exams are coming, yet the issue on the VS going Co-ed is still lingering in my mind. I used to be anti-coEd too, but, after reading so many expositories (pros/cons of Co-ed) of so many people, I am now ambivalence in my stance.

Is going Co-ed the only way out to solve VS's current problems? If yes, would I rather see VS go down the drain as a boys school, or would I rather see VS remain competitive as a mixed school. Is sacrificing our tradtion worth it?

Anyway, here are some extracts of views who are anti-coEd (i apologise for being one sided here), but its a good practice for Social Studies anyway.

Source AI'm not a Victorian, and will never be one, unless I go join that kuku-lala-sits-on-the-old-gum-tree VJC, but chances are 0. Of course if 15 years ago I was born a male, I'd have probably joined VS, after my Brother. Despite VS being a racist school (shut up la don't deny), I admire their weird culture and school spirit, which many other schools either don't have, or have lost it. Also, isn't it more carefree being a guy! No monthly ketchup-spraying and pms-ing, no extra weight on the chest and no pregnancy! But I'd like to do without a dingdong between the legs, and the BO too. Shudders.

But the fact remains. I will never be a male, and I will not want to enter VS as a female. Come on, it just doesn't sound right. Imagine all the funds needed to build extra toilets, and to blur certain glass railings to protect female privacy, not to mention the designing of new uniforms! Their once united school cheers will sound something like a choir gone wrong with screeches and roars tangled up together (I am glad of our low cheers) and oh God let's not continue. VS will not only be a racist school, but will also turn into a sexist school! Females will be made to do everything and anything because they are the intruders, but they will learn to rise and overthrown misogynists and soon a war will break out till everyone is slaughtered. Majulah!

- adapted from http://quarternote.blogspot.com/

Source BWell, come to think of it, who would want to form the first batch of girls IF VS becomes co-ed? I mean, why will girls be willing to enter a school full of boys, no female seniors, in a very male environment, enter toilets which were originally made for males, and so on and so forth? Unless the girl is weighing the possibility of getting into VJC easier more than anything else. Or unless her father is a old Victorian and wants his child to be in VS. Or unless the IP programme is really super attractive. Other than that, I cannot imagine girls in VS. And I also wonder how many girls actually want to go VS in the first place. They must be out of their mind (or unless they have a problem with their gender...)

- adapted from http://colin.rantx.com/

Source CProvanence: Written by VJC student, former Catholic High student.

1) Victorians read the TNP article and get all flustered, enraged, angered - Passion. They love their school and they aren’t afraid to show it.

2) Just 2 days following that, a flurry of posts on the blog keeps them in check. They remind each other about the motive behind their peititions. They remind each other that the enemy is not their principal. They remind each other that passive talking is not going to acheive anything. They remind each other what it means to be a Victorian

3) Many ex-VS boys return to VS to work on the issue. The managerial committee of the OVA has issued a statement on their stand. The Victorians claim to have a counter-proposal on the way. Apparently they are putting up a display, donning their P.E. shirts around tommorow. (How many will actually do it, that we will see)

Basically, this is it:

Passion -> Voice -> Action

That should be how every self-respecting human being should be. And they did it all in 2 days. I’ve always dreamed of being like that. Now that I’ve seen it with my own eyes, I now know its possible.

Thank you, Victoria.

- adapated from http://chaos.co.nr/

Q1) Study Source A. What is Source A trying to tell you about VS going Co-ed. Explain your answer. [5]

Q2) Study Sources A and B. How similar is Source A from Source B. Explain your answer. [7]

Q3) Study Source C. How far can you accept Source C that Victorians SHOULD feel proud for what they are. Explain your answer. [8]

VS's on the verge of going Co-ed?!

2005-08-18T22:52:00.000+08:00

Girls in Victoria School?
By Santokh Singh

S’pore’s last all-boys govt school wants to go co-ed. Some old boys upset.

It is the country’s last all-boys government school. But Victoria School (VS) has decided to take a knife to tradition – it wants to go co-ed.

The school has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Education in what looks like a move to play catch-up with some of Singapore’s top schools.

It hopes that turning co-ed can make it the main feeder school for Victoria Junior College (VJC) with the possibility of merging into one Integrated Programme (IP) in the long run.

That would make it similar to the Raffles and Hwa Chong families, where the boys’ and girls’ schools are linked to their respective JCs. Their students study a six-year course bypassing the O levels.

MOE confirmed receiving the proposal and said it had asked the school to submit a detailed proposal of its overall long-term plan for evaluation.

If it gets the nod, VS will leave behind a 129-year-old tradition of being an all-boys school.

The school did have girls in pre-university classes from the 1950s until as late as the ‘80s.

Right now, it is the only government all-boys’ school left in Singapore.

Principal’s Email

VS Principal Ang Pow Chew, 46, is away on a school trip to china and could not be contacted.

But in an earlier e-mail to his staff, he said the school is suffering a brain drain following recent changes to the education landscape.

In 2004, 38 students, about 10 per cent of that cohort, left VS to join the IP offered by Junior Colleges and some of the independent schools. The school predicts that the number leaving the school could go up to 100 or about a third of the cohort.

Said Mr Ang in the e-mail: “VS will experience a deep hollowing out effect. In anticipation of the challenges and opportunities generated, VS and Victoria JC see merits in both institutions working closely together to offer linked programmes.”

VJC is already offering its own IP programme for students from Sec 3 onwards.

The plan is for VS to be the main feeder school for VJC. To do so at least 50 percent of each Sec 3 cohort must meet the JC’s cut-off mark. That may not be possible if it remain an all-boys school.

Said Mr Ang: “As it is unlikely that this target can be reached with VS remaining a boys’ school, we believe that turning co-ed will raise the quality of the intake.”

Eventually, both schools hope to run an Integrated Programme just as the Raffles and Hwa Chong families are doing now.

Many old Victorians were unhappy

Old boy Chan Joo Peng, 27, said: “I don’t think the aim is to bring bout an IP programming at all. It is just to help VS climb the rankings ladder."

“While I am all for better performance, I am not for it to be at the expense of some strong traditions. I would rather see an all-boys VS moving up the ladder on its own steam.”

Old Victorians Association president Aaron Tan said they would respond after a meeting on the issue.

Source: The New Paper (17th August 2005)

This was yesterday's article. It came as a shock to me, in fact to most Victorians.

A lot has been heard, has been done. The chaos online, even online and offline petitions. Recently saw the anti-co-ed blog. From all this, at least, I could sense the strong, united Victorian spirit.

We have gone through 129 years. It is our heritage. Won't want to see it changed. Never !

Today in school, there were petitions set up in the canteen, just at the mural. After school, the Monitors and Prefects stayed back for a collaborative meeting, hoping to do something to prevent a catastrophe. It was then we saw 2 reporters coming into our school, hoping to grab a shot of post-'riot'. Probably they came at the wrong time, not many Victorians were left; petitions were taken down. So they got nothing. Except the online petition site. I'm thankful, they should wait for Mr Ang to come back !

Oral Examination

2005-08-15T22:05:00.000+08:00

Today was indeed a prime highlight of my Secondary 4 life. Its the O Levels Examinations, English Language Oral. Waiting in the air-con hall for my turn was agonising. It takes an average student 15 mins to complete the process, and I happened to be the 9th person in group F097. So I waited from 1.45pm to 4.15pm before it was my turn.

The two examiners (or do you call them inoculators?) for my group were a Malay and an Indian lady, which seemed to be the worst examiners one can get among the other groups. My group gapsed as they approached us; whereas those from other teams shook their head in pity for us. 'How unlucky can we get!! Soon after, we joked amongst ourselves, for we were in it together; and made comments like 'Some Racial Harmony sia !!'.

Ironically, the topic turned out something related to Racial Harmony. A signal brought to us from heaven, we ignored it though. The conversation with them turned out relaxed for me though. Picture conversation was actually about children celebrating Racial Harmony Day in school, with a trishaw brought in to enhance the mood. Bring in the oriental and colonial touch of Singapore's hertiage and era.

One of my classmate said 'tricycle' !? Can't you tell the difference between a trishaw and a tricycle?

Then, they asked me "How the overall atmosphere might be changed?" This stunned most of us. I was like "huh??" Misintepreted the question and said something like "Perhaps a rock band could come in to play?" Unfortunately, that wasn't what they were looking for. They wanted what could remove the joyous mood in the kids, and so they asked again.
Some said the rain came, thus dampened the children's spirit, and cannot continue to enjoy themselves. On the contary, I said the trishaw rider might have received an emergency call and had to leave his job early. Quite a lame question to ask issin't it?

Overall, I was happy with my performance. I was rather regretful about reading the passage too fast though (although it's already at a reduced speed compared to my usual style), and I DO hope all my words are pronounced clearly. Articulation sounds fine to me. Just unhappy with the word "wry", which was pronounced wrongly.

During conversation, I was asked about some favourite teacher or something. Talked about my Lower Secondary Teacher, and managed to peep my score. I saw a 13. Is that a good sign?

A world of my own...

2005-08-07T14:13:00.000+08:00

I am lost in the world of my own. I am so lonely. Everyone seems to be engaging in their own path towards success. Everyday, I go to school to prepare for my fate. Sometimes, I may just side-track and get involved in my CCAs; as minimal as possible, just for the reminicing taste of it.

As each day inched by, it gets closer and closer and closer to the examinations. Take for example, the O Levels Oral/Aural examinations is just a week away. I can feel the intense pressure engulfing me. This date used to be of no significance; it used to be so far-fetched. But not anymore, especially when I am able to count the number of days left with my 10 fingers.

Prelims are just 3 weeks away. In fact, is it only 1 week away if I consider the practicals. I haven't been able to put my study plan on schedule. I couldn't start on my own written notes. Im still stuck with tons of homework, all the SBQs and SEQs for both humanities. Apart from that, even class administration matters. When will I be able to break free?

Tmr is National Day's celebrations. Sec 4s get to celebrate by running the Inter House Championships. What a 'successful' breakway from stress with a nice stroll along the beach. Cheer for me. I am aiming for 1st place; from the back that is.

Misunderstanding

2005-07-14T20:00:00.000+08:00

I offer my sincere apologies to those affected by the misunderstanding caused from my previous post "IP or No IP" esp. towards Yee Jek and the VIP Students. That post, unintentionally though it may have been, has not given the full idea of what the Integrated Programme is about, thus making it seem to be a one-sided view.

While it was unintentional for the disclaim, I have put in my utmost to make up for losses. It was actually an overlook on my part not to seek Yee Jek's permission before reusing information from our conversation, not considering this to be a public portal to such an extent. Even so, I did not make it clear to him that I had wanted to find out more about IP, for juniors to comprehend better how IP is about, before they apply for the programme. Therefore, the actual paradigm put forward as well as facts about IP during the chat are somewhat distorted especially when not presented fully here, for it was supposedly thought to be a casual friendly chat.

Once again, I am sorry for all the inconvenience caused, the negative influence cast on you as well as on the programme. After all, I was doing this for the sake of my juniors, I do hope you will take my liberty in good faith.

In fact, the introduction of the Integrated Programme, i personally think, is somewhat related to what was taught in humanities, and I should have known better to question its existence. From late 1970s, the government saw that different pupils had different needs. A change in education system was therefore necessary. The needs of the brighter pupils were considered. The Gifted Education Programme (GEP) was an example of such introduced to provide an alternative pathway for brighter pupils with a more challenging education, learning extended syllabus, learned research skills and carrying out of independent study and research projects. Such a diversity promotes critical and creative thinking. This is mandatory to prepare students for the Challenges Singapore might face in the 21st Century.

Similarly, the Integrated Programme (IP) acted as a catalyst for education, providing a boost activation pathway, thereby giving brilliant and independent pupils and edge to venture into areas to achieve greater heights and maximising capabilities. This is indeed very true, for I have seen real-live examples too. Nevertheless, it may also serve as a great hindrance to education, to pupils who are NOT good enough and end up struggling in the programme.

Indeed, many Sec 2 students that I know of are planning to apply for the programme. However, most of them, whom I know personally, are not the type of students who will survive through it. Most of them are either not mature enough, or are not the exceptional cases in lower secondary. Thus, how can they be let alone through an independent and less stringent pathway?

In this way, I believe this programme would not have served it objectives well and would instead cause a backfire for those who are not suitable for it. I sincerely hope these applicants would reflect, and consider the pros and cons. This is the main reason why I have to remind these kind of juniors not to apply for the sake of applying, for the chance or prestige, for I know they will need furthur guidance through their growth to maturity yet to be. I do not wish for my juniors to regret making their decisions due to a moment of folly. This is also how it has led to the misunderstanding, by the strong-headed harsh ideas I tried to put across.

The Camaraderie

2005-07-09T22:42:00.000+08:00

Thank you Weng Keong for your constant support (tagboard) !

Friends are so important, standing by you whenever you need them, as well as sharing the joy after going through thick and thin together.

Watching the show 'You Fu' on channel 8, the 3 friends 'You Fu' made from the Army are really the most loyal towards one another. Imagine having loyal friends like these...

Yesterday was like another break from the exams. Immediately after the exams, went out with a friend for bowling. Tried to play LAN and pool, can't enter because we didn't bring extra shorts to change into. So in the end, went to his house, played computer, PS2 and soccer. What nice friends I have... Hope this friendship lasts forever. Ppl like Law, chengwei etc etc... hope we can still keep in touch after graduation, even till the end of days. Thank you, you guys !

Long lost times

2005-07-05T21:34:00.000+08:00

Yeah. Today just finished my E Maths Paper 2. Finally feeling confident for one paper. Hope all goes well for A Maths Paper 2, Biology and Chem...

Now that I'm in the midst of the war, this feeling suddenly dawned upon me. I am actually missing the challenging times I have had in Secondary Three. I really miss those times when bickering with Derick, the anxiety I felt when things failed to be the way it is, being trapped between my EXCO and Heads, planning and doing work for my CCAs... etc.

To think of it, I have not been spending time with my IT Club mates for a long time already (ever since handover). Derick, Pravind, Faris, Chris, Darel, Keng Hua, even Mandhir perhaps. Now, we're bearly like an acquaintance, saying only 'Hi!' as we meet. I clearly remember the times when we were planning and running the camp. The 'shit' we went through together, the hatred, the joy we shared during the course of our camp. That has indeed united us then.

So much have changed since then. We have all distant. We bearly seem to know one another now, not even a common topic on hand. Why is this so? Why are we not bonded closely like the other Sec 4s in other CCAs? Perhaps we have all decided to head our own paths? We really need to catch up with things.

So much have gone by, can I still relieve the past?

The War

2005-07-02T23:01:00.000+08:00

I am in the midst of the war, I'm halfway through it... However...

Today I went to watch "War of the worlds" at Bugis Junction, with Law, Addison and Zhenyi. And followed by LAN gaming. Indeed, a breakaway from exam stress. The movie's rather stupid, felt cheated of $9.50. No standard at all, nothing compared to 'Mr and Mrs Smith'. Moreover, despite having similar plot as 'The day after tomorrow', I find this story line really boring. So, take my ~~advise~~ advice, don't watch it for any chance.

BTW, this week's a wonderful period of time to visit Parco Bugis Junction. There is this 'Makan' food fair 2005, from 1st to 3rd July. The crowd there is humongous, and it's really hard to manoeuver through the streets. Nevertheless, it's still nice to experience the ambience.

What's so special about this fair? Well, there are different traditional and cultural food on sale, ranging from the Chinese Wrap Duck to Indian Mutton Soup.

Even satay. Unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to taste the delights there, due to the long queues. Moreover, the items on sale is also not cheap, as they come in very small portion. I really cannot comprehend the food craze in Singaporeans.

Talking about ambience, there are these sam sui women around to relieve the old traditional Singaporean days. Just to share what I have seen, these sam sui women were fanning little kids who were playing carom. Haha, I wanted to join them, but decided not to lest I trash them flat...

Indeed, its a nice experience. Perhaps you may want to experience it for yourself too?

Ok, now back to the 'war' topic - my exams that is. As mentioned above, half of it went past. Now Im left with E maths(P2), A maths(P2), Biology and Chemistry.

Last Monday I had my SS and English Paper 1. English turned out unexpected, I was given the topic to write about the the negative impact of the Internet. Haha, my niche area indeed. SS was mad, shall not talk about it.

Tuesday was English paper 2, which was... nothing to talk about.

Wednesday was E Maths Paper 1, turn out pretty well. Just can't seem to do 1 or 2 questions, one of them is the angle one... Can't believe i can't do it. Just hope I don't commit careless mistakes.

Thursday was Physics. This was a killer. Everybody had to admit. I studied all the Laws(Ohms, Faraday, Lenz, Boyles) except Newton's law, and IT CAME OUT! Nevertheless, I wrote something which i remembered. And I found out I wrote Newton's 1st law instead of Newton's 2nd law which they asked. Shall not talk about it anymore.

Friday was mad rush. A. Maths and Geog E. Couldn't sleep the night before... Oh well... Wish me luck for my last 4 papers. k?

Anyway, finally, the EXCO for Sec 3 for Monitors' Council was released last Monday. Congrets to the following who made it thus far:

Chairman - Jarren Loe
Vice-Chairman - George Teo
Secretary - to be confirmed...
Internal Organising Head - Edwin Chua
Events Liason Head - John Cheo
Welfare Head - Lee Cheng Yang

Good luck to you guys... I shall not say much, after all I have been telling you all a lot. Will be telling you more after my exams, to finalise things. Remember, the battle's only begun, the challenges face ahead you. Prepare yourselves to propel forward to even greater heights. Will be looking forward to handover though...

Jarren, congrets on your new appointment, you have lots of things on hand. I heard you chose to focus on MC instead of your core, and I do appreciate that. But I honestly think that wasn't necessary. I managed to get through with mine right? But nevertheless, you have a lot more to learn, firstly to start off is to learn to be less passive.

As for George, you should learn to curb your temper... a bit. Anyway, I hope you did not regret making your decision, especially when that came with many sacrifices. It was within your reach, you chose to let them go for a prioritised focus. Well, in my opinion, you did the right thing. Just work hard on that focus, in that direction, and don't let yourself down at the end of the day. Don't end up making wasted sacrifices.

For John, you do have to learn to be serious. Don't give people the impression that you are erm... haha... I dont know how to put it. Perhaps your friends can tell you more?

Anyway, Im now working on the forum for VS Student Leaders, starting off with MC and PB, so as to foster better working relationship between the two boards. If all goes well, PSB, LTC and CIC will also get their accounts before I leave VS. Hope to leave something useful, and some place where the student leader graduates can still be engaged in VS student leadership matters. Hope it can be something you guys out there can look forward to.

And Weng Keong, if you are reading this... Juz wanted to inform you that I cannot seem to tag at your blog. Wonder why... Juz wanted to let you know I visit Admiralty very frequently, perhaps out of the blue, I may meet you one day... haha !

Exam Stress !?

2005-06-24T23:02:00.000+08:00

Hello everybody! Supposedly to be studying Social Studies now, but I really can't seem to get anything into my head. SS's exam just 2 days away! Nevertheless, I decided to destress first!

Before I continue, I am proud to announce that my blog receives an average of 25 hits per day. I would like to think all friends who have been visiting my blog frequently, my real supporters! People like Mansoor, Hongzhou, Weng Keong, Jeremy Ho, Jafnie, Mark, Derick, John, George, Jarren, Alex, Jonaize, Kian Sin, Jacklyn, Gin, Clement, Calvin ... yes and definitely many more. Can't possible name you all out ! I may have missed you out; and if I do, my sincere apologies.

Do urge you guys to leave some tracks here!! More tags and comments please! Or you guys maybe just coming here for the radio blog songs? lol ! Don't worry, more songs will be coming!

Oh ya, you may be wondering, how keep track of my visitor hits? Find out !

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Today, George was buggin me like fun fair to tell him his positions, both MC and NCC Land. Haha, I shall not be dropping clues. I shall keep mum, information of zilch will be leaked till Monday. Heard that Mansoor had a great time torturing the 5 HP Nominees during the post-Head Prefects Elections Weekend... haha...

Adding on from what I said previously, time indeed flies. And it all seems true as the days drew nearer. This coming Monday, when all sec 4s are having our exams, the results for Sec 3s MC EXCO will be reviewed. Of course, we the executives have already discussed, and have finalised their positions. I do have the results currently on hand, pretty sure they 6 of you guys would be anxious about this? Even your job scopes are ready! This time, you people are given the chance of selecting your apprentices from Sec 2 monitors, so do a good job k, carrying on the wonderful work from your Sec 4s.

Remember, with power comes responsibilities...

Staring at the new MC hierarchy chart delivered to my email, I realised, indeed another week has gone by. I could still clearly remember how the feeling was like when Ms Margaret Ng released to us our positions. I was given chairman, given the tideous job. I had to work with people I’m not close with, and start from nothing, not to mention concurrent with IT Club's stuff.

My batch of EXCO chosen then was equivalent to just any sec 3 monitors that are interested to take up the positions, so the EXCO were actually not very close with one another. Other then a few...

MC was rather 'dead' then, in shreds. Many things needed to be started afresh, new teacher IC s, new structure, new plans, new hierarchy, and new environment... everything’s new. Cause our seniors had not really done a very good job maintaining MC ever since Santosh's year. Last year's EXCO wasn’t united; even school monitors feel no passion for the council... (Was there even an EXCO last yr? lol)

So technically starting this year, my batch could be considered the new generation pioneer batch of MC, or probably so called the new beginning. Luckily, I had a 3-yr experience with running clubs and societies, somewhat like an organisation (as Mr You always tells me). I put what I learnt from IT Club into place, so basically MC 's structure's now building up like IT Club's. With the starting of EXCO/general meeting/minutes recorded, filing systems, apprentice EXCO, even a strong online communication structure... ah ha, most of you would know the rest... hope the new few generations can carry on well our efforts, which was built from scratch... yeah, just some basic reflections on my part. Don't let me down my upcoming Sec 3s...

'That here our better youth was spent, that what we are was seeded then.'

Thanks to Mansoor who enlightened me on this quote above from our VS's poem, I believe most of us sec 4s realise its true meaning after all...

My Spontaneous Reflections

2005-06-18T23:39:00.000+08:00

The Radio.blog is finally on independent server. Thanks 5gigs.com !

For the past few days, i have been thinking and thinking. Spontaneously, the image of how 'terence' would be like during graduation day appears in the bleak cerebrum of mine. I know this day cannot be avoided, it will come... and very soon in fact. 3 months to be precise.

Time indeed flies, there is no way to describe this apprehensive feeling.

To make things worse, something else struck me hard, increasing its impact on my 'still' confused mind, as just 20 minutes ago on MSN...

superfly: hi terrance (she usually spells terence wrongly)
superfly: so which day can we meet them?
terence: tue? noon?
superfly: okie
superfly: i will see you guys at 12pm?
terence: k
superfly: so do you think we can finalise who should be in EXCO by next week?
terence: er... yeah
superfly: and then i will speak to mr gabriel on wed to ask him to handle the handover ceremony

That was my conversation with Ms Tang (or should it be Mdm Tang?). After what she said, I realised the handover for Monitors' Council will be within er... a stone throw's away?
(can i use this to describe time too, instead of distance?)

Not even for this, I was already discussing with some other SLs about the selection of new Senior Leaders for the Leadership Training Camp 2005. To me, all these are happening too soon. I can still clearly remember the experience I had when I was only selected as a Junior Leader about 2 yrs ago.

Everything is dropping off like dead flies, the things that I have been given and worked hard for will soon be parting, right even from the beginning ever since i left VS IT Club's presidential office.

I really can't bear to part, I want to be the VS IT Club's president forever, I want to be the Monitors' Council Chairman for good, I want to stay on as a VS Senior Leader, going on to conduct camps for Sec 3s, and stay on as a Peer Leader for my Sec ones...

Even before this, just a few nights ago, I was talking to Wenshu about similar issues. He told me the last day he had in VS before leaving for VIP (Victoria Integrated Programme) was rather a bitter one; he just couldn't stop crying after the decision was confirmed.

I'm too attached to VS. VS and I are bonded together, no way we can part. If Wenshu had cried bitterly over this, what will I be feeling on my last day of school? Parting with my friends, the VS Spirit, my commitments. Everything will just be cut off... Nothing will be left. I will be left alone in my own world. Lonely...

It is a fact that I spent 4 fulfilling years in Victoria School, unlike Wenshu or the other IP boys, who spent only 2 years. If 2 yrs could make him cry like this, seriously, what will happen to me on the last day of school? Would I not be able to take the blow and jump off a building?

I have been trained as a student leader, been given the opportunities which many aren't. Perhaps, it is because of this, I feel much more attached to the school. I believe it is unanimous amongst all VS Student Leaders (be it cca leaders, ltc, cic etc), as well as many other Victorians who have gained/learnt something from VS, all of us have already regarded VS as our second home...

Ask people like Mansoor, See Kiat, Shaun Chook, Evan, Johnathan F ... etc... and they will prove that I'm right. I believe we shall be giving a deafening and solid spelling cheer during graduation day to conclude our 4 wonderful years VS have given us, following which we shall be crying our hearts out at home, missing the wonderful times we had...

Indeed, the school that watched us grow... we left a legacy...

Life in VS has been an enriching one. Never once did I regret entering VS, despite all the ups and downs and obstacles I faced.

I was telling Wenshu that it was a pity he had missed his upper sec. life, as that is the most fulfilling times in secondary school. its the time u learn to take up responsibilities, and put ideas into action, enjoying the fruits of labour once u are in sec 4 (esp. at my stage). Of course, Wenshu agreed, and he somewhat regretted going for IP. making people regret leaving VS... haha, that indeed sought me a sense of triumph. oh well, that's besides the point... well at least those who left for IP still clearly remains in them the VS Spirit.

I still remember 2 yrs ago... (something which i really cherished from VS...)

In Secondary Two, I again took up the role as a class monitor. This year was rather a special year for me, as our class, Secondary 2C, had a meaningful June Holiday. We had our ceremonial move, which was concurrent with Victoria Challenge.

Our class decided to do something bold and daring – We decided to built a massive sand sculpture of the Victoria School logo on the beach, and at the same time, introduce Victoria School to the people at the beach. Working with my class committee on this was indeed tough, as we had to balance our planning with our forth coming Mid Years examinations.

There was once the project committee went all the way to the NParks Headquaters to discuss our project with their chairperson, although that was during our examination week.

I still remember there was this interview, and our class's project was even featured on the NewPaper(I still have that article though). However, during the course of the planning process, there were many things the committee could not see eye to eye with, thus heated arguments could not be avoided. Struggle between the committee members on the work credit were plentiful, and thus the committee split apart.

Nevertheless, the project was rather a success, despite President Nathan not going all the way to the East Coast Beach to visit our project. He was too busy looking at the exhibits in school then.

From this experience, I learnt that communication skill is actually very important. This skill is applied when I was trying to get the class to be united and to decide what project we should do in the initial stage. Also, I learnt that in order for planning to go smoothly, there must be unity within a group. As for the arguments, there is no such case as to satisfy everybody, and everyone should learn to give and take.

Thank you everyone in VS, for what you have given and taught me, you shall live in my heart... always...

Let's strive to keep her flag unfurled...

IT Club Camp?

2005-06-17T16:13:00.000+08:00

I was supposed to be in IT Club camp today, the camp i was so looking forward to... Unfortunately, the camp had to be postponed due to unforseen circumstances. It was because of this camp, I previously cancelled the trip to KL with my primary school friends, now that something like that were to happen, my friends had to leave w/o me, and im stuck at home. What a letdown...
I shall try to be optimistic about this... at least i have more time for my homework?

The Holy Matrimony

2005-06-15T14:15:00.000+08:00

haha, before i start blogging about ms tang's wedding, maybe i shall add on a little from the 'The Triple S experience' post. Yeah, during the Salsa Safari holding time, I asked the monitors to vote who (which sec 3 exco) they prefered to have for a chairman... sec 3s, interested to find out? heh heh... votes for each individuals are 4, 4, 8, 4, 4. So who's the 8? go figure it out !!

Yeah, back to "The holy Matrimony"... colin and huiru's wedding was held in the church @ bishan, some sacrosanct area which turned out to be an enjoyable one. Apart from looking forward with much farce to call ms tang by her newly adopted name either mdm.tang or mrs.leong, im also gonna look forward to seeing the photos we took at the hall.
(well adapted paragraph from john cheo)

Prior to that, me and chengwei and kenneth met up @ thots in junction 8 to buy her a gift and a card. Cost us a bomb.. not really actually if to be divided by 8 portions...

Indeed, after doing a pretty good job rejecting people to the near by carpark, we proudly entered the wedding hall.
She was indeed gorgeous looking in her gown... which you may see in the picture on the left.

Had much fun with the long monotonous scripture reading, as well as the exhortation. The solemnisation of marriage was indeed an eye opening scene, as i never had a real life experience before, other than on tv. so glad ms tang never forgot us, even put VSMC under the acknowledgements (for traffic control). Wish you two a happy marriage... and 祝你早生贵子！

NUS Physics Openhouse

2005-06-15T12:10:00.000+08:00

Yeah, have been busy going to the NUS during the 8, 9 and 10 June for a Physics Open house. Not wanting to talk about how smart the RI people are... and how we got trashed during the quiz... bleah...

There was this very interesting experiment that I saw, perhaps you are interested to know?

The video shows a superconductor practically floating above and moving around a circular magnetic plate (with no contact with the plate at all)...

Before we continue on this, I shall introduce Liquid Nitrogen to you. Yes, if you may have guessed, the picture to the left depicts a scene at the physics lab of NUS. It shows a cup containing Liquid Nitrogen.

Liquid nitrogen is Nitrogen gas cooled down to -196^o C. Interesting issn't it? That explains why it is so cold. The wooden test tube holder (picture) frost up immediately after I put it into liquid nitrogen for less than a second. Imagine putting your finger into it... the feeling would have been worse than getting a frost bite.

Liquid nitrogen has such a low boiling point, it practically boils at room temperature. Looking at it indeed reminds me of a boiling water (in fact more vigorous bubbles/mist than boiling water). This also explains the mist around the cup.

A superconductor is actually a material which possess no resistance to electric current. The superconductor in this experiment is made by soaking an alloy into liquid nitrogen. It then possess special magnetic properties as it becomes very very cold.

Ok back to the experiment. The reason why the superconductor floats over the magnetic plates is due to the "Magnetic-levitation" concept. German researchers Walter Meissner and Robert Ochsenfeld discovered that a superconducting material will repel a magnetic field, which explains why it floats. COOL EI?

The Triple S Experience

2005-06-05T18:09:00.000+08:00

Many may be wondering, what's the Triple S all about? Probably, you are also in doubt.

Triple S = Swine Sty Slumberparty = Monitors' Council Camp '05

Issin't it a unique name for a camp? Kudos to my Sec 3s EXCO for that !

This camp was indeed an exciting breakaway from stress (for Sec 4s). Wonderful activities for the monitors who turned up. Personally, I think that the camp is a success, as firstly, the turnout was pretty good (compared to only 10 monitors last yr haha). Also, monitors were very engaged in activities. Lastly, activities were interesting.

Was missing in action for the initiative games, water warfare and mental challenge. Had to be in Biology lessons. Heard that the Sec 3s managed to start off the camp pretty well.

Photohunt was another game, kudos to jarren for his hard work. Practically, he went to take pictures of certain parts of the school, and monitors are supposed to identify it. That was pretty hard i can assure you. Imagine a picture of a switch just with the serial number. Try looking every classroom for it.

Sports was rather swine. 15 monitors on each side (15*2= 30) playing soccer in the tennis court is indeed a bad idea. Having our poor Edwin stuck between the rugged boys as a referee.

It was finally evening time, the period which is most relaxing, and soothing for the mind, the best time for Monitorosutra. Basically, Monitorosutra is a session to teach monitors the real meaning of leaders. Kudos to george for carrying out the lesson effectively. So i hope that george, you know better how to be an assertive leader, and not to be an aggresive and passive leader. Also, monitors have the 'priviledge' of having me to share my experiences as a monitor for 4 yrs. Monitors also share their problems faced being a monitor, where we brainstorm ideas on how to tackle them. Wonderfully headed by Changyang, I think he has really proven himself capable of conducting a lecture.

Following which, we had A Night In New York. For those who are wondering what it is, i would suggest you go and find out. Perhaps read on to find out? Shall build up some suspense here.
During the event, the Sec 4s (judges) were indeed appalled by the 'Monkey Toots'. They acted this play which was really ... shocking. Never expected it from Sec 2 monitors. Their story line was about some slut(daniel) who bumped into this guy(xuan yi). Then ended up having s** with him. There was this scene where this guy (xuan yi) went to *toot* the 'woman'(daniel) , getting her pregnant. This scene was indeed hilarious, fancy daniel lying flat on the table, then xuanyi went up and really.. garr !

Then, this xuan yi went out to find another woman, then daniel, committed suicide...
garr... shall leave you to think of the rest.

The Sec 3s performed wonderfully for us, and Edwin also sang one of his favourites. Later, the judges (Sec 4s) were forced to perform. Decided to be sporting enough, Kenneth, Chengwei and I went backstage to practice an impromptu a cappella. Sorry if we sucked !

Night walk was indeed fun ! I had the priviledge of telling them all the wonderful haunted stories that was passed down from seniors. Didn't expect monitors to be so frightened, i didn't complete even half of my collection, and they were pleading for me to stop. Haha. So in order to reduce their fears, I told them "ok ok, our new building is very clean. All the stories happened in old VS. Nothing to worry about !"

Ended up lights out at 2 am. We the EXCO and the Sec 3s ended up staying awake almost the whole night. Ms Tang brought prata so we had supper at 3am. The 3 Sec 4s wanted to go out to the beach to watch sunrise and party, but were locked in in the school compound instead. So we practiced our a cappella right under the noses of the hostel, hoping to wake the security guard up. Indeed, the plan failed and we all went to sleep at 5am.

Enough of boring events, personally this camp wouldn't be a success w/o the hard work of the MC EXCO, not forgetting to mention especially Jarren. He has been working hard trying to finalise the proposal. George/Tajuddin were busy with their NCC camp, while the rest were also busy with CCA. Can't blame them i guess.

From here, monitors indeed should learn how to take instructions better. "Being a leader, you must first be a good follower", I hope monitors learn from what I have told them... Will be looking forward to next year's camp !

Are VS Monitors taken for granted?

2005-05-29T16:28:00.000+08:00

"You are conned, you are conned, you are really kanna conned, by the best con man in town. And the best in the world some say even in Batam, I will con you upside down. Cause im a con-trac-tor, nothing that i cannot do... you will kanna conned for sure, kanna conned through and through..."

...continuing from previous post

Monitors indeed, play an important role in school. An example would be that whenever there are any information to be passed to every/any class, the monitors will be called out, either to stay back after morning assembly or look for a teacher.

Monitors are however, constantly being taken for granted by many teachers. This could be perhaps 2 monitors are apparent in every class.

I have students, as well as teachers, and even monitors themselves telling me: The Job as a monitor is realli 'sai gang' (translated as: dirty job). This is utterly true. Monitors are the first to be blamed for whatsoever that goes wrong, and last/never to be praised for whatsoever that goes right. (though not in all cases)

Apart from handling class administration such as attendance and stuff, monitors have to take care of the class if the class is noisy or when teachers are not around. They also have to lock the classrooms during recess and after school (resulting in being the last to go down for recess/go home and first to appear to open the doors). Worst still, there are always this group of people who don't appreciate their hardwork, yet making things difficult for them. For some classes, students just refuse to listen to the monitors' instructions, and some even persevere the idea of staying in class during recess, or breaking rules in class. Perhaps monitors can be given more authority in class?

As to what Mr Maran have said "Monitors are there are a reason, not to look pretty". I have to agree with him. We, do have a job to do too. But can't we expect a little more appreciation?
Also, look at it this way, are ALL monitors that are chosen, the best people for the job?

During my term of office, I seem to be more concerned about Monitorial matters. Whenever i have the chance, I will inquire from my Sec 1/2/3 Juniors and even teachers about how their class monitors are like. No doubt there are potentials, yet there are also disheartening 'stories' to hear about.

To address such a problem; firstly, consider how monitors are chosen? Unlike the Prefectorial Board, the Monitors' Council does not have much say in the selection process of monitors. We do not conduct interviews, nor trial periods for them. Instead, in most cases, it ends up either like a popularity vote by the class, or selected by the form teacher. Usually, the notorious and weak are voted for (so that they have corrupted monitors which cannot stop them from breaking rules in class). Because of these few 'black sheeps', Monitors' Council is predetermined as 'useless'. But, is it our fault? Indeed, we need better ways to select the right people for the job. The council should be given more say on the selection process.

Think about it, would it benefit you to have a lousy monitor, who doesn't relay correct information to the class?

The role of the council is made worst with some teachers rotating monitors every term or as and when they like. This makes us very difficult to keep track of all monitors. As the council is trying hard to accomodate every teacher's preference of monitors, and it is practically impossible to maintain the bonding spirit amongst all monitors if they keep changing our monitors. Why can't monitors be like prefects, having the same people for the job throughout the 4 years once they are selected in Sec 1?

Moreover, such cases mentioned above kinda remove the prestige as a role of a monitor. Monitors feel that their role is not secure.

In addition to this, the council want to develop each monitor to be capable of being able to run the show. How is this to be done if so many new monitors are inducted every term? Do you actually comprehend our feeling of "功亏一篑" (translated as: efforts gone to waste)?

...do imagine a day where there are no more monitors in victoria school...

CCA Reflections

2005-05-29T15:37:00.000+08:00

Frankly speaking...

It is almost time that I handover all my committments to the Sec 3s. Time really seems to fly. After being in the term of office as Head Monitor, i figured out myself to have been exposed to much more things than any other students... such as working with PB for the EDGE Project, taking care of the welfare of Monitors etc. (continued next post above)

Looking back, the role of being MC Chairman has indeed reminded me of my role as President (Chairman) of VS IT Club.

IT Club has been my incubator of growth in Victoria School. Despite having lots of tough times in it, I have been FORCED to surface what resilience there is in me. In it, I turely learnt the term "never give up" and "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail". From IT, it learnt many things such as leadership, thorough planning, writing proposals etc. No doubt there are lots of resentment and power struggle, but still I managed to surface.

IT club commenced my VS leadership career by sending me on the Leadership Training Camp 2003. That was when everything took flight. From there, I learnt many things/ways of being a leader. Mr You has always been telling me, being a leader for Uniform Groups and Clubs/Societies are indeed very different.

For example, IT club, we do not have rank and file. If you want to get your EXCO and cca members to be committed and respect you, you must first learn to respect others. Also, you must built strong friendly relationship with them, and learn how to gain their trust, by constantly support them. If not they will boycott you, and you end up doing everything yourself.

On the other hand, Uniform Groups are different. They force fearful respect (not all cases though). Juniors are forced to greet their Seniors "sir". They get 'pumped' and screamed at when work is not done, or if you do not 'respect' them enough. Thus, everyone follows the rigid system of rank and file, forcing them to take all instructions from those only of higher ranked. (correct me if i am wrong)

Moreover, IT club also built me up with team spirit, and it also gave me the idel how to run the club well, which put me in a good position for carrying on in the Monitors' Council.

Thus, IT Club will always be remembered deep in my heart... the catalyst which reflected what I really am.

Swine Sty Slumberparty Week

2005-05-28T13:59:00.000+08:00

Its been realli crazy...

My daily routine for this week was like going to school, sit in for intesive Chinese lessons, then go home. Its kinda weak structure, kills everyone's brain cells. People like Kian Sin, Monk and Zhenyi were all doing Maths during his lessons. This is kinda waste of time, but... wat can be done?

I shall begin with what happened yesterday(Friday). Its was like finally the last day of the Intesive MT programme and I know this torment would soon end. Unexpectedly, the impact was much diminished, as Mr Chew dragged me out the whole morning to do some IT stuff for him. So my class escaped HMT lessons for more than 3 hrs. As usual they were playing cards, enjoying themselves; While the other MT classes were indulged in chinese fads, feeling immensed pressure for their forthcoming MT O Levels on 30th May.

Enough of these boredom materials lest you fall asleep. Let's start off with something interesting yesterday. After school I was practically relaxing in the Monitors' Council room. I then realised the best part about schoolling is actually spending time with my Juniors and peers in the MC room. I wonder how long this could last.

Jarren had a piece of Mr Ang today. George, Jarren, Chengwei and I were in the IT Lab doing some MC work, until we left the lab realising we did practically nothing much. I started giving them Full Admin powers for the MC Web, as they were probably gonna take over nxt yr. As we were walking along the corridor, Jarren had a dramatic fall. He was dancing like some swine, until he fall without warning, due to sudden cramps in his thighs. Of course everyone started laughing, as Jarren was still groaning in pain. Just then, Mr Ang walked past...

All: Good Evening Sir !
Mr Ang: Ei boy, don't lie of the floor.
Terence: Oh sir, he is having a cramp !
Mr Ang (to Jarren): Do you know why you have cramp?
Jarren (still lying on the floor): No sir!
Terence (adding on): He just did too much exercise during training just now sir !
Mr Ang: No, you have cramps because you are too heavy !

Poor Jarren, I bet half the school will know soon ! lolx !

The Mystery of Mdm Nabilah...

On Thursday, Mdm Nabilah had just hurt me... for the first time. A confrontation...

Mdm Nabilah: I'm so disappointed in you!
Mdm Nabilah: MC Chairman some more...

Apparently, she found out...

For those who are interested (George, I know you are), this was what happened... There was this Biology Mock Test for all Sec 4s (held on different days of the week; some taken 2 weeks before). Apparantly, my class was one of the last few to take. I was in the MC room the day before the test when someone had a copy of the MCQ question paper. Having too much to study within a day, I decided to stratagise and study only the chapters that are tested. I have been busy with many committements you see. In the end, the Paper 1 question paper was borrowed back...

I know this Mock test was supposed to be a driving force for us to study. Just think, I know the rational behind it, why should I create harm for myself? I hate being accussed of memorising the MCQ answers, why would I want to do that?

Mdm Nabilah: Should I still mark the paper?

I admit the MCQ turned out to be a breeze, and its true as no doubt I have seen the questions before. But still there are still things i do not know, and i want to learn from the test.

In fact, there are hell lot of others who went to ask for the questions/answers (I shall not pinpoint them). I'm not making excuses. I know I am in the wrong. As a student leader, I shouldn't have stooped as low as them and should not have touched other's Bio paper at all.

But I couldn't resist the tempation. I didn't have time to study the whole book... There is no point going into the test and coming out with a '0', like what Mr Wong said to Chris the other time (regarding the Chemistry test)...

...I also shouldn't even have lent out the questions to my classmates. I'm very sorry Mdm Nabilah, now I feel really remorseful after what you have said to me.

But I DID study (selective chapters though) for the test. Like others, I also want to know how well I would fair. I apologise to you once again, although I know my impression in you could have been tarnished... nevertheless, I shall make it up to you in the O Levels.

Swine Sty Slumberparty Week...

I am worried, anxious, apprehended, disturbed, perplexed, writhed. Concerned about this and that. I am troubed about my juniors, the council, the it club, and even my o levels. starting off with the council, there are many problems going on.

My two closest junior George and Jarren from Monitors' Council seem to be having a huge problem. So do Ramanan and Tadjuddin.

There seem to be so much uncertainty in everything i do. For Monitors' Council, we are about to handover soon, as most of my Sec 4 EXCO is like lost in their eluded world of acadamics. Things left to do:

- MC Shirt
- Attitude of Monitors
- MC Sec 3 EXCO
- Filing System
- Class Passes SOP
- EXCO SOP
- MC Website
and most imporantly - CAMP

im sure there are more to add, juz that i can't think of any more now.

In fact, I think that Holiday really issn't gonna be a holiday for me at all (I believe this is rather similar thinking for most Sec 3/4s)

First week, I am dumped with Chemistry and Biology Make up which take up 3 days. Following which is the Chemistry Practical Mid Years Exam. There is also the 2-day Monitors' Council Camp which clashes with my Biology class. Not forgetting MC EXCO Interview.

Second week, I will be attending a teacher's wedding ceremony.

Third week, i will have to attend IT Club's 3-day Camp, concurrent with Physics and Bio Practical Mid Years Exam.

And not to mention only having a week to study for my Mid year exams.

--" woot __

2005-05-15T12:29:00.000+08:00

hey people, add some comments lea ! and link me up k z?

Its been a long while since i last posted. Has been quite a hectic week. Filled with quizzes and mock's'. Had Chem, Physics, Bio, Napfa... juz to name a few.

Results for the HCl paper one was out last Tue, quite ok a score for Paper 2. 79.5/110, an acceptable A2 score. Hopefully my paper one gonna be >60 / 90 so that I can at least get an overall A2 score. Pity to those who dont score a distinction for this paper, cause this's prelims and its yeah, counted for JC admission.

Talking about Chemistry really pissed me off. To think I lost my Chemistry file/notes, I went to borrowed and photocopied dem. Cost me $9.30 !! Worst, after spending so much $$, i dun think i did very well in it, cause i bearly know much about the Alkanes, Alkenes, Alcohol, Carboxylic Acids, Esters as well as all the linkage nonsense. In summary, I hate organic Chemistry. I only managed to breeze through the inorganic parts.

Physics was also so-so, the MCQ had choices which appeared almost the same. So Paper One was quite a rough ride through that one hour. Paper Two also.. haiz... Wonder if O Level's ready for me??

Bio's quiz was also quite lame. There was this question: "What do you use to clean the fermenter?"

(Definition: a fermenter is a machine which is designed to keep its inside environment favourable for the desired biological process to operate eg. Penicillin)

To think that something so stupid could appear. Of course, I decided to answer intelligently with "chemicals". Can you believe it, the answer was "Detergent" !? Who would be so shallow to put such a basic answer !! You think what, wash plates ah ! haiz.. Wadever !

Napfa test was ok. Confirm Gold already. This week we had the 2.4 km run. This time, I had no one to pace with. In addition to this, Desmond borrowed my watch, and thus I can't time myself. This run ended up rather dramatic, I had Roy chasing behind my ass (juz like a dog). Before the race, he challenged me, claiming that he could outrun my trial timing of 11:11 (i was only aiming for a C grade though). And in the end, instead of outrunning me, he even got whacked up by Kian Sin. sigh, Roy... 不自量力！

After the race, two people in my class vomitted... Bleah .... Kudos to Clement and Darren ! lol

Hectic Sunday !

2005-05-08T21:03:00.000+08:00

woah, just as i thought this Sunday would be a relaxing one, i woke up realising that there's so much work to be done ! OMG !

I planned to study physics today, but as I found out I had hell lot of Social Studies Source Base Questions for hw, which usually take me half a day. And it DID !

Started rushing off my SS, juz in case teacher made me stand behind ... AGAIN ! Well, standing behind wasn't that bad, the bad thing was that I was *suaned* by her because I was the monitor. Heard of 知法犯法，罪加一等? Ya, that's what she meant. Well, the other time, I was punished not because i didn't do my work, instead because I brought the wrong workbook (u noe 4A instead of 4B). Ms Kong, sorry bout this though !

Well, Source Base Questions DID take me that long. Finished around 6 pm. (Imagine if i could take that long during examinations). Aft finishing it, I smsed Lisha and realised I had to do essay comprehension for English Tuition tomorrow. OMG !! How to finish, and about to go out for Mother's Day dinner soon :-) . Looks like once again, my procrastination skills has done it once again. Haiz.

Yup, back from dinner now. Had a nice 8 course meal including my favourite sharks fin and chilli crab. Felt like wishing mum a happy mothers' day, but it looks so old fashioned. If i were to spend money to buy her gifts or stuff, I usually end up getting chided for wasting money. Typical mothers ei. So i decided to show her my good intentions via some actions --> through o levels. A rather belated gift though.

Ok, action speaks louder than words. I better get started to prepare my mother's present: Starting off by doing well in tmr's physics mock. Got to run. Got to mug. C ya !

Yet another boring weekend...

2005-05-07T21:10:00.000+08:00

Wow, this weekend really came in handy. Needa cool my brains down aft a bad nite's slp due to the Higher Chinese Prelim or SA1 wadever u call it. Higher Chinese SA 1 really sux, studied like mad just for 35 marks !? And I already lost 4 marks on the easiest mistakes... omg ! I hope I can get my A1 this time ... Yah, thanks to this HCl (not hydrocholoric acid though), i onli slept for 4 hrs. Haf to replenish already. bloodshot eyes are getting into my way.

Woke up @ 1030 am, decided to catch some cartoons to accompany my breakfast. Pokemon !! Sheesh, been missin this cartoon since a long long time ago... Needa catch up on my childhood.

Spend my whole Saturday slacking.. dunno wad to do. Ended up playing some IQ computer game with Jeremy. Took us 2 hrs to solve 3 IQ rooms. Looks like Jeremy and I are not damn addicted to this game.. haha. Can't wait for the next room to come out !

Nobody seems to be studying for the upcoming Physics Mock Exam, so I decided not to study too. Well maybe, juz maybe I may study tmr. Mock's not counted anyway ritez? Maybe because everyone has to rush out that piece of SS homework ... bah !

As a web designer, i spent quite some time today wondering what to implement for my blog's design. Haiz, guess I'm sick of designing, so gonna leave things as boring as it is. Sorry if my blog's design suk !

Warming Up...

2005-05-06T23:08:00.000+08:00

Finally, I managed to set up my own blog, will be spending some time to work it all up. Hopefully, this can be a place where people interact. Hope to make this place an online portal for html/webdesign hehheh... 将让大家拭目以待 !