SAJC ORIENTATION 2009

Friday, January 30, 2009

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Hi,

First of all, I’d like to warmly welcome you to SAJC!

I can imagine how you’re feeling right now- a bit of anticipation towards the fresh prospects of a new school, perhaps a dash of heartache for what you’ve left behind in your secondary school years, and probably some nervousness in this whole new environment.

SAJC, a home to so many of us, must indeed be somewhat of an alien place to you. I too felt this way when I first stepped into SAJC. I remember the unsettling feeling of being surrounded by a sea of strangers in varying uniforms, and an increasing dread at having to start anew. However, amidst a wave of distress and this sudden urge to run back to my secondary school and carry on with the life I had grown so accustomed to, the words I first saw upon stepping into SAJC came to mind- No one is here by chance.

To some, this line may be an over-used and perhaps a clichéd line. However, to me, the meaning of this line still stands as strongly as when I first thought of it back then. Indeed, every single one of us are called here for a reason. As Jeremiah 29:11 says, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”. What is ahead of us may be unknown, but be assured that God has great things in mind of all of us. I am absolutely certain that your presence here in SAJC is no mistake, and I believe that each of us will take away something special and unique from our years spent here.

The leap from secondary school to junior college is quite a large and perhaps difficult one, especially having to leave behind years of wonderful memories nurtured in secondary school. In SAJC, I never thought I would find a set of friends, teachers or school culture I was so blessed with in secondary school. Truly, I never did- but that does not mean I did not find something equally special, and more. In this one year, I’ve made friends who effortlessly fill my days with laughter, found teachers who are more than willing to go beyond their call of duty to guide us, and settled into a school culture that brings Saints together as a family. SAJC, a school which was once a foreign place to so many of us, has now become a home. I’m really grateful for all that God has given to me here, and I’m excited for the great things in store for you.

The road ahead is an uncertain one that may be smooth or filled with bumps. However, here in SAJC, I’m sure that through anything, you will find a family ready at your side. From one Saint to another, may you have an enjoyable orientation, and fruitful years ahead!

God bless!

With best regards,
Renee Tan
President
31st Student Council

once a saint
always a saint

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