What would you say to your past self if you had a chance to say something? Would you tell your past self to avoid the mistakes you’ve made? Or would you give clarity on important decisions you know you’ll have to make?
We asked an Alumni and a Year 1 student to write a letter to their 16-year-old self who had just finished their O-Level and are looking forward to their next stage in life.
Dear Denise,
Pretty sure you are contemplating whether you should be applying to a Polytechnic right now. Well, I’m going to be telling you some things I wish I knew before applying to a Polytechnic.
1. It isn’t going to be as easy as they say
As compared to my Junior College friends, my timetable is more flexible with some days having no classes at all. However, after one year in Poly, I worry about my Grade Point Average (GPA) score. It is not easy to maintain. Receiving a B+ these days can be worrying. I always strive to achieve an A. I think it’s because I plan on going for further studies, so maintaining a GPA of at least 3.5 is important.
2. You may not be close to your teachers but that’s ok
Teacher-student relationships may not be as close as compared to those in secondary school. In secondary school, teachers are open to hand-hold and help you as much as they can when you ask. In Poly, they prepare you for university life, so it is more of independent learning. Hence, you might not feel as close to your lecturers and will need a lot of discipline to do well.
3. You will find nice friends
Despite all that, I love the people here! Contrary to popular belief of Poly having “snakes”, I’ve met really friendly people. Students are generally helpful because everyone here has the same mindset, which is wanting to do well, although they might not show it on their faces. Seniors are really nice too, I’ve met most of them from Orientation and CCAs. They gave me so much advice and I feel more at ease! These are two chances to build connections!
I am glad I didn’t choose the JC route, I cannot see myself surviving there, I will probably be seeing a therapist by now. Overall, the choice is still up to you. Make a wise choice, as it might open doors to your future.
Love,
Your future 17-year-old self
Jan 2022
Hello 16-year-old Rachel!!
How have you been! The world is a pretty different place now, but as you can see I’m still alive and doing well. I hope you have been enjoying your holidays after ‘O’ levels so far! I believe in a few days, you will be receiving your ‘O’ levels results. How are you feeling? I remember feeling pretty nervous and jittery the days leading up to results day.
By now, you would have been to a few Poly open houses and have shortlisted some Poly courses to apply for. Fun fact, you'll also get to meet one of your favourite local artists, Gentle Bones, at Nanyang Poly’s Open House. Here’s the proof:
2015 Rachel and her brother with Gentle Bones, a local musical artist. (via Instagram @rachelcham_)
Anyway, here are some tips that I have for you as you make some big decisions for your future.
1. Dreams vs Expectations
I know you like having clarity about your future, so let me take this chance to tell you that you'll graduate with a Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (from here on ‘Pharm Sci’) in 3 years. This decision was made after much deliberation between chasing your dream (to be a graphic designer ahem) and fulfilling dad and mum's hopes and wishes for you.
Though it would have been a memorable experience for you to “live the dream”, take comfort in knowing that the choice you'll make will lead to opportunities that you would never imagine having. So trust in what you feel led to, don't be afraid!
2. Find out the REAL prospect of your future course.
As I was taking photos with Gentle Bones, my eyes darted towards the Pharm Sci booth about 10m away from where I was standing. I remember being greeted by a senior with a wide smile plastered across his face as I was walking towards the booth.
“Welcome!! I am (I can’t remember his name omg) Do you want to find out more about our course?”
Our parents then went on to bombard the year 3 student with many questions.
When it was finally my turn to speak, I asked “What kind of careers can I pursue in the future?”
“Well, you can work in hospitals, retail pharmacies, or you can even travel the world if you choose the Clinical Trials route!” the senior replied.
TRAVEL THE WORLD?! NANI?! (I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO DO THAT!!)
Nani Pop Team Epic GIF By HIDIVE (via giphy)
Expectations skyrocketed and I was more convinced that I should put this course as one of my top choices. The reality is, it’s a lot harder to travel the world, at least with Pharm Sci. Be more intentional to find out more about what it means to be a Pharmacy Technician instead, and maybe search up on how to get a scholarship while you’re at it.
3. As much as you hate it, listen to dad and mum.
Honestly, until today, I still replay that 1 hour that I spent contemplating the day before the submission of choices in my head, imagining how different life would be if my choices were different. You will know really well that whatever choice you make determines your life for at least the next 3 years.
I know you were pretty disappointed with yourself when you rejected the EAE offer for Diploma in Visual Communications. I just want to let you know that though you eventually placed Pharm Sci as your third and fourth choice just like what your parents suggested, you still grew tremendously through the 3 years in Poly. Being in Pharm Sci will allow you to meet many people from different backgrounds and also give you time to pursue your passions (wink).
You'll Be Fine Get Well Soon GIF By Originals (via giphy)
I will end the letter here. I think letting you know more about how Poly life will limit the way you spend the next 3 years. No matter what decision you make, know that your parents will still be proud of you. You’ll be fine (: See ya in a few years!
Love,
23-year-old Rachel
Jan 2022
Curious to find out what other seniors have to say about their Poly or JC experience?
Come and have an honest conversation with seniors from different schools!
Click HERE for more details.
