“From Han Chiang High School to NUS: The Journey and Triumph of Chang Shyuan Rhui”
Introduction
Chang Shyuan Rhui is a 2021 Han Chiang High School graduate, returning to revisit the place that fostered her towards success. Through endless determination and effort, she has now enrolled in the National University of Singapore, having the privilege of being a part of the Honours College of the National University of Singapore. She is currently preparing to study for her double degree in computer science and mathematics.
Accomplishments
Shyuan Rhui actively participated in various competitions, from Olympiad Maths and Science competitions to debate competitions. She pursued debating at Han Chiang High School, including events like the World Scholar’s Cup. Beyond school, she engaged in Asian and British parliamentary debates, which led to her selection for the future squad of Team Malaysia for the World School Debating Championships. She also mentioned that she independently sought competitions and asked permission to represent the school in events such as essay writing contests, and the Trust for Sustainable Living essay competition. In her IGCSE examinations, she achieved remarkable results (10 A stars) and earned a scholarship at the National University of Singapore.
Challenges Faced
Throughout Shyuan Rhui’s journey, she encountered multiple obstacles. She decided to transfer to Han Chiang High School in the middle of 2019 in which she was Form 3. As she adapted to her new school life, she admittedly faced some difficulties, trying to get used to the logistical side of her new school. She also struggled with using Chinese constantly, but slowly adjusted to the changes through her friends’ and teachers’ aid. After graduating, she began her studies in Singapore at a junior college. In this new learning environment, she felt quite anxious since her other classmates already come up from the Singapore O-Levels and were more exposed unlike her. In addition, Shyuan Rhui didn’t have an account in the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS) for her first few weeks, where lectures were posted. However, she settled the problem with the help of her friends and caught up to lessons quickly.
Gratitude and Inspiration
Her success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support given to her. She expresses gratitude to her teachers and peers, especially her Chemistry tutor, Madam Lim Bee Lee who took extra time to teach Chemistry in preparation for the Malaysian National Chemistry Quiz. She arranged online lectures outside of lesson time for Shyuan Rhui and other students, supplying notes about organic chemistry, a few years ahead of what they were learning. She stated that the incident was a pleasant memory engraved in her brain and acknowledged her teacher’s passion for teaching. She also cherishes her high school friendships dearly, recognising their eagerness to support her endeavours.
Looking Ahead and Future Ambitions
Shyuan Rhui was uncertain about her future as she was still trying to pinpoint a career path that would captivate her interests. As for now, she has some short-term goals including excelling in her university studies and performing her best there. Her double degree in Computer Science and Mathematics has enabled her interests to research artificial intelligence (AI), by participating in activities and events about the topic. She thinks it would help her to pursue an occupation in a field she enjoys.
Words of Advice
For Han Chiang High School students who aspire to study abroad like Shyuan Rhui, she has advised them to seek assistance when needed. She believes she couldn’t have reached this point without her teachers and friends, who helped her through her struggles. She points out that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and perseverance in oneself. It shows their courage to admit when they don’t know something, and their willingness to learn something new. Moreover, students should not limit their scope for knowledge. She highlighted that many people restrict themselves to what they think they can do, not being able to unleash their full potential. Shyuan Rhui serves as a role model for Han Chiang High School students, demonstrating that with dedication and effort, anyone can succeed.
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