Flame Issue 1 2024 by Catholic JC

Principal’s Address

Dear CJCians,

Finding Joy, the theme of this edition of FLAME, aptly captures the spirit behind learning, that is, seeking your passion, which I have spoken to you about on several occasions. The joy one experiences is the motor behind all pursuits, especially that of learning.

During Orientation, joy is experienced as exhilaration as you bonded with your fellow JC1s. During Cross Country, joy is experienced as the rush of adrenaline as you raced past the finishing line. During your overseas learning trips, joy is experienced as excitement over discovering a foreign country. During the release of the GCE A-Level results, joy is experienced as a sense of pride from having done well, learning from the experience, and reaping the fruit of the sacrifices made. Beyond the College, joy is experienced by hawkers as customer satisfaction. Joy is also experienced as a pleasant surprise at what Singapore has to provide us, that goes beyond our expectations and experiences.

CJCians, as you journey together through your Junior College years—the best and most exciting time in your educational journey, albeit the most challenging—how, and where would you find joy?

For me, joy is found daily in my interactions with students, and it definitely reached new heights when the two gallant gentlemen appeared out of nowhere to accompany me in my last lap at our Cross Country!

CJCians, what is your Finding Joy experience?

Joyfully In Veritate et Caritate!

Mrs Woo Soo Min Principal

President’s Message

The theme for this issue is “Finding Joy”. It’s an emotion we’ve all experienced before, but how do we find it? Whether you are an educator or a student in a pressure-cooker JC education system, finding joy can indeed feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, it’s precisely in these challenging circumstances that discovering joy becomes all the more important for ensuring our mental well-being.

Teacher Editors President

Mr Lester Tan

Ms Diana Long Chloe Pang (2T05)

Vice President EXCO (Secretary)

Ellynn Soh (2T06) Suzanne Phong (2T29)

Contributors

Doong Shi Kai

Dylan Leong

Gladys Kee

Glenda Christopher Gregory

Imesha Srimalee Mapatuna

Keegan Ho

Matthias Njauw

The Editorial Club would like to thank the Film, Sound and Video (FSV) Society for rendering their support in the area of photography.

As the quest for joy is a shared experience, we invite you to journey with our students through the pages as we explore how members of the CJ community have discovered moments of joy during various College events. In addition, the J3 seniors have shared some insightful tips on how to derive joy from learning. We also ventured beyond CJ to learn about the joys and challenges of our local hawkers, and also to immerse ourselves in Vietnamese culture during a cultural immersion programme in Vietnam.

I would like to affirm all of you for pressing on and cultivating joy in your own life in the first semester! Even when things get challenging, may you be inspired by this issue to find joy in the small things and take a moment to breathe amidst the chaos. Remember, joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion but a state of being that we can actively cultivate, even in tough times. Happy reading!

In Veritate Et Caritate.

Chloe Pang (2T05) President of the Editorial Club

JC1 Orientation 2024

Odyssey: Unleash your Potential

By Imesha Srimalee (2T04) and Ellynn Soh (2T06)

This February, we welcomed the new batch of JC1s. With the help of the JC2 OGLs, their transition from their respective secondary schools to Catholic Junior College (CJC) was an easy one. We interviewed two Orientation Group Leaders (OGLs) and one teacher-in-charge who played a huge role in contributing to the success of this year’s Orientation.

1. What made you want to become an OGL and a

From my own Orientation last year, I already knew I wanted to become an OGL. It sounds crazy, but it’s more about how my own OGLs made my Orientation such a welcoming journey and in turn, made me want to do the same. Moreover, I felt that it was within my capability to welcome the new JC1s to CJ and be a part of such a creative process. It’s more about wanting to make a change in someone’s life, even if it was just for one OG kid, to share the amount of love I have for CJC with them. Personally, regarding running and being the faction head of Inceptus, I felt that every chance I get to be a leader just helps me grow immensely as a person.

2. What values did you learn from being an OGL and what did you take away from this experience?

From being a leader, I learnt responsibility, as well as gained a better understanding of myself. Honestly, I feel that the more leadership opportunities a student goes for in their JC life, the more they start to realise what kind of a leader they are. I realised that there are many different types of leaders; for example, some are more task-oriented, while others are able to connect with those around them easily. Other than learning about my own leadership style, I also learnt how to organise my time a lot better as I had to strike a balance between my school and OGL responsibilities. Additionally, I also learnt the value of connection. Ultimately, it’s the people who count.

3. What would you say was your favourite part about the JC1 Orientation?

The thing that definitely stuck with me the most, is the people whom I met. In my faction, we all became extremely bonded over the 2 months of training and I’ll never forget the bond we have forged.

- Le Phuong Thao (2T05)

Inceptus Faction Head and OGL

1. How was your experience of being an OGL? What values or skills did you learn from it?

Of course, I would say Orientation was really one of the most memorable events and I would definitely go through it again. It really defined my JC life due to the amount of effort and work my fellow OGLs and I put in to make this year’s Orientation a success. Also, the huge amount of happiness I felt definitely made being an OGL fulfilling too. From my OGL experience, I learnt leadership skills; I also learnt about effective teamwork as I had to work with people I had never met before. Even though we had disagreements at times, I learnt that it really is important to come to a compromise and try to work together.

2. What was your orientation group like initially at the start of Orientation and how did they change by the end of the event?

At the start, I wouldn’t say that they were quiet, but rather shy. When talking to them individually, they would show interest in the conversation and try to maintain it. However, they were quite individualistic at the start. By the end of Orientation, I observed that they all tried to branch outside of their own comfort zones and try to talk to one another more often, bonding together as a whole orientation group, so that was really good.

3. Looking back on this experience, do you feel proud of what you’ve achieved as an OGL and why?

Yes, I definitely feel proud knowing I played an active role in giving the JC1s a good first impression of CJC and providing them with support.

- Raphael (2T06)

Honoris OGL

JC1 Orientation 2024

1. What was your orientation group like and how did they change throughout Orientation week?

At the beginning, my Orientation group was quite segregated where the boys and girls would stick to their respective gender groups; on top of that, they were mostly introverts who needed to take time to get used to a new environment. In the end, of course, I wasn’t expecting big changes where they would absolutely flourish and become extremely comfortable with one another, but each person eventually found their own community. They were opening up slowly each and every day, and as an OGL, I felt so happy and proud of them, seeing how caring they were towards one another.

3. What was your favourite part of orientation?

2. Do you feel that your experience as an OGL was meaningful and in what way?

It was so interesting to deal with people in various ways, be it collaborating with my other OGL partner and simply talking to the kids. It struck me that our community consists of very diverse people. There is a J1 who struck me as someone who will grow and flourish beautifully in any environment: she is eloquent and very kind hearted; she also loves to talk about various things with me like Korean dating shows and she also shared deep thoughts with me as well.

My favourite part of Orientation was being able to see them grow as a group of strangers to a group of friends. By the end of Orientation, a lot of OGLs, myself included, bawled our eyes out because of how attached we had become to our respective OGs.

How do you feel about this year’s Orientation and what was different about it? What was the planning

I think this year’s Orientation was very well-planned and executed by the Orientation Committee (OC). The Student Council (SC) teachers selected 4 very capable Student Councillors (Coco Kuan, Galen Ang, Kavenesh, and Jerrald Koh) to work together with our 49th SC President, James Tan, as OC members, and they really lived up to our expectations. Planning and executing a 5-day event for more than 700 JC1s while also managing the Orientation Group Leaders and Alumni is no easy feat, but they rose to the challenge. Their committed and meticulous preparation, which started back in September last year, made Orientation 2024 a success.

What would you like to say to the new JC1s?

Be inspired by the efforts of your seniors, just as they were inspired by the efforts of those before them. There are always good people striving to do good, and you can be one of them too.

- Ms Charmaine Miranda

How has the experience impacted you and in what way?

The joy of overseeing the planning and execution of an Orientation programme, like any SC event, is always found in watching the students grow through the process. I teach this JC2 batch so many of the OGLs are familiar to me, and seeing them step out of their “classroom personas” and push themselves to welcome and lead the new batch of CJCIans was very rewarding.

JC1 Orientation 2024

The Joys and Struggles of Being a Hawker in Singapore

By Gladys Kee (2T03), Imesha Srimalee (2T04), Chloe Pang (2T05), Matthias Njauw (2T05), Ellynn Soh (2T06), Glenda Christopher Gregory (2T07) and Suzanne Phong (2T29)

Photography done by the Film, Sound and Video (FSV) Society

At the end of 2023, the Editorial Club collaborated with the Film, Sound and Video (FSV) Society to shine a light on the joys and struggles of being a hawker in modern-day Singapore. Members from both CCAs visited two hawker centres—Newton Food Centre and Yishun Park Hawker Centre—where they interviewed a few hawkers who shared candidly about their experiences.

Newton Food Centre

Disclaimer: Many of the stall owners wish to remain anonymous; hence, their names have not been included in this article.

If you live in Singapore, you have probably eaten at a hawker centre at some point in your life. Regardless of your age, background and race, eating at a hawker centre, and bonding with others over the wide variety of scrumptious food on offer is an inextricable part of our lifestyle.

However, in recent times, many hawker recipes are starting to die out due to many hawkers becoming older, and the lack of younger hawkers who are willing to carry on their time-honoured recipes.

We visited Newton Food Centre which is located a stone’s throw away from Newton MRT. As we approached the hawker centre, we were greeted by familiar smells—the tantalizingly smoky aroma of grilled satay and the distinctive wok-infused perfume known locally as wok hei. The hawkers were deeply immersed in preparing food for the evening crowd.

We interviewed some older generation hawkers to find out their daily routines and challenges. One such hawker is the owner of Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge who shared that his business is doing relatively well due to the constant flow of customers from day to night. The morning routine of hawkers is rather tiring. Typically, the stall owner wakes up at 6am in the morning. After drinking his daily cup of coffee, he starts preparing the ingredients for the dishes to be served during the day.

#Newton Food Centre

The owner of Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge

The Joys and Struggles of Being a Hawker in Singapore

The owner faces several challenges in our rapidly changing society. One of them is the uncertainty of the future of the stall which looms ahead like a dark cloud. The stall owner mentioned that he is unsure about whether his son will inherit and continue his business. Unfortunately, if he is unwilling to, the future of Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge seems bleak. With a sorrowful expression, the stall owner noted that as he is growing older, his hands are not as strong as they used to be and soon enough, he will be unable to continue running his stall. Additionally, with the rising inflation rate, ingredients have become more expensive. Despite this, the price of the food at Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge remains the same because the owner does not wish to burden his customers.

Traditional hawkers such as the owner of Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge are hard-pressed to keep up with the advancements that come with living in a Smart Nation. They do not have the technical knowhow to use food delivery apps to increase their profit margins. On a more hopeful note, most hawkers are open to suggestions and help for their stalls. The stall owner remarked that if young people were to help him set up a Grab food account, he would definitely use it.

Another stall owner we interviewed is the owner of 88 Sam Ren Cold and Hot Dessert, known for their ice kachang and snow ice desserts. With the rising temperatures in Singapore, we naturally gravitated towards their stall for a bowl of icy cold dessert to cool down in the sweltering heat. While savouring every bit of their mango snow ice dessert, the stall owner shared with us that she has owned her store, which was passed down from her parents, for about fifty years. She shared with us that managing the stall is not too challenging and that she enjoys it thoroughly.

Despite the challenges they face, each hawker we spoke to exuded resilience and determination—traits that have enabled them to navigate through some very turbulent times which include the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Their love for cooking and their commitment to serving delicious food to their loyal customers make them truly admirable. Their stories serve as a bracing reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses, and preserving the rich culinary heritage of Singapore. Hopefully, more new generation hawkers will learn from their elderly pioneers to keep our hawker culture alive and thriving.

A bowl of chendol prepared by the owner of 88 Sam Ren Cold and Hot Dessert

The Joys and Struggles of Being a Hawker in Singapore

Yishun Park Hawker Centre

Yishun Park Hawker Centre opened on 20 September 2017 and is named for its close proximity to Yishun Park. Owned by Timbre Group, this contemporary hawker centre blends traditional charm with modern amenities including pinball machines and advanced facilities.

Yishun Park is home to a community of 43 hawkers—all of them from different walks of life—who work together to serve a wide range of well-loved hawker food. The hawker centre provides natural ventilation, family-friendly amenities—including child-friendly toilets and seating—and convenient tray return locations. The hawker centre boasts unique design features that remind visitors of a park—these include trees, shrubs, and wooden benches. The overall effect is a unique blend of liveliness and serenity—a microcosm of our Garden City.

Yishun Park Hawker Centre offers more than just the typical neighbourhood dining experience: It was designed as a communal space, uniting hawkers from different generations. The diverse offerings include a BBQ joint serving delectable steaks and burgers, a stall specialising in handmade Hong Kongstyle wanton noodles, and a stall that sells min jiang kueh that come in a variety of innovative flavours.

We decided to try the min jiang kueh sold by Munchi Pancakes (#01-43). A nostalgic treat for many Singaporeans, min jiang kueh is a traditional Chinese pancake dessert. Munchi Pancakes is renowned for putting a unique spin on this classic, offering charcoal and matcha pancakes filled with unconventional ingredients like black sesame, oreo, and cream cheese. The pancakes boast a delightful chewy texture, crispy edges, and rich fillings without being overly sweet. Each Halal-certified pancake is priced at around $1.50. You can choose from the available options or have your pancakes freshly made on the spot by the staff who work at the stall.

Hawkers at Munchi Delights preparing min jiang kueh with skill and precision

Munchi Delights operates on a self-service model, encompassing ordering, payment, and order collection at the counter. The staff are friendly and briskly efficient, ensuring the quick and smooth ordering of food.

The editorial members interviewed one of the staff, Juan, who has been working at this stall for roughly eight months, to find out more about his experience as a hawker and the hawker culture at Yishun Park Hawker Centre.

The Joys and Struggles of Being a Hawker in Singapore

What hardships did Munchi Delights face at the start?

It was challenging at the start as the stall was started with only four people. On some days one staff member had to work for longer shifts, even up to fourteen-hour shifts. With four people, it was challenging to take medical leave as those working in the morning had to extend their shifts.

What are some tips you would give to aspiring hawkers?

Becoming a hawker is not hard as long as you have the passion. This is very important as without it you may give up very quickly during the journey. Also, rental of hawker stalls under FairPrice is cheaper, which can reduce the cost of starting a hawker business.

Are the current issues faced the same as the earlier issue on manpower?

The stall recently employed two more workers, so the manpower issue is resolved. There were other workers who expressed interest but I encouraged them to support the last stall in the hawker centre instead as it was in urgent need of manpower.

What do you enjoy about the hawker culture at Yishun Park Hawker Centre?

Juan from Munchi Pancakes

Onwards CJ!

The Catholic Junior College Cross Country event is a thrilling event that brings together students, staff, and members of the CJC community. The race took place on 8 March 2024 and offered participants a platform to showcase their talents and endurance while competing among peers. Beyond fostering an active lifestyle, the event fosters camaraderie within the college community. This year’s event held particular significance as the students and staff collaborated with the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH) to organise the event. Visually impaired individuals from SAVH also took part in the event, supported by CJ students and staff who ran and walked alongside them.

The day commenced with a flag-raising ceremony followed by an address from our Principal, Mrs Woo Soo Min, emphasising the significance of sportsmanship. Her words struck a chord with both students and staff, spurring them on to give their best for their respective Houses. The warm-up was led by the four House Vice-Captains, igniting a sense of excitement and readiness among the students as they geared up for the run.

Soon after, fuelled by adrenaline, participants from the different Houses eagerly awaited their turn at the starting line. The starting whistle echoed through the air, signaling the commencement of what promised to be an electrifying race as the first group of runners surged ahead. Teachers enthusiastically cheered on their students, while House Masters cheered for their respective houses. Fellow students echoed their encouragement as the front runners navigated the narrow trail, vying for optimal positions.

By Gladys Kee (2T03), Keegan Ho (2T25), Doong Shi Kai (2T29) and Suzanne Phong (2T29)

Along the running route were cheerful Parent Support Group volunteers and teachers who were rooting for all participants, holding up signs at regular intervals, indicating the distance left for the runners to cover whilst cheering them on.

As runners approached the finishing line, drenched in sweat and pushing through exhaustion with every last ounce of energy, they were met with thunderous applause and a sense of accomplishment upon the completion of the exhausting but fulfilling journey.

Once the majority of the school had completed the race, the various Sports Leaders took to the stage to liven up the atmosphere as they danced to a medley of pop songs. This was followed by a prize giving ceremony to recognise the top J1 and J2 runners of each House, as well as celebrate the winning House. In closing, Mrs Woo addressed the school and commended the student runners, volunteers, and sports leaders for their efforts and enthusiasm, which greatly contributed to the success of this year’s Annual Cross Country.

There was an undeniable spirit of camaraderie in the air as students embraced both their classmates and friends from other Houses for completing the race. It was truly a memorable experience as CJC’s Cross Country cultivated a strong bond among participants, forged through the shared trials endured during the run.

Finding Joy in Visiting Hidden Gems in Singapore

Are you looking for some solitude? Do you yearn to be far from the madding crowd? In this article, members of the Editorial Club recommend their favourite hidden gems in Singapore that bring them joy and contentment. These places are not frequented by many—perfect for a quiet date with oneself, or with a companion or two.

Alchemist

Recommended by Gladys Kee (2T03)

Nestled away from the bustling Bugis streets, hidden in a gothic style building and from the usual coffee shop crowds lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: Alchemist, a quaint and neo-medieval coffee cafe that promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Hidden on the second floor of the building, this cafe deviates from the typical design of previous outlets, known for their white and industrial aesthetic. Instead, it embraces a dark theme with black walls, elegant chandeliers, and luxurious brown leather sofas that harmonise perfectly with the overall architecture of the building. This cafe radiates an atmosphere that seamlessly combines minimalist industrial design with spacious comfort.

When it comes to coffee, there are typically two blends available; I usually opt for the dark matter blend, known for its nutty and chocolatey favour. During my visit, I ordered a white coffee, which highlighted the chocolatey undertones of the beans and had a pleasantly sweet caramel finish. The coffee revealed tantalising hints of cherry and was devoid of acidity. This cafe truly excels in coffee craftsmanship.

Visiting Alchemist is always an absolute delight, from the moment I step through the door to the last sip of my expertly brewed coffee and last munch of pastry. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing spot to unwind or spend a day out with your friends, it is a superb location to swing by. I highly recommend giving it a try and experiencing the magic for yourself.

Finding Joy in Visiting Hidden Gems in Singapore

Art Now Gallery

Recommended by Ellynn Soh (2T06)

Nestled within North Bridge Road, Art Now is a beautiful gallery that is not known by many; it is a true hidden gem in Singapore. Specially curated with art pieces from artists of various backgrounds and mediums, Art Now is a great place to visit, with friends or family who have an interest in the arts. Here, hours seem to fly by like minutes as visitors pore over the pieces.

What makes this place special is the curation of art pieces, as well as the cozy atmosphere the place exudes. Upon my arrival, I really felt at home and comfortable enough to really pore over masterpieces with my friend. I found that my visit really helped cultivate my passion for the arts, with the pieces evoking various emotions in me. This place is definitely a must-visit hidden gem in Singapore!

An interesting sculpture by Yihan

Recommended by Suzanne Phong (2T29)

Singapore has its fair share of gardens and parks dotted around the island and Holland Green Linear Park is no exception. However, unlike other parks, I feel that it offers a sense of serenity that no other park in Singapore provides. Holland Green Linear Park, as its name suggests, is a linear park that runs parallel to the Bukit Timah First Division canal. Although it has all the usual trappings of any other park in Singapore, there is something inexplicably alluring about the scenery at Holland Green Linear park which distinguishes it from similar parks.

Featuring unique sculptures by Yi Hwan-Kwon, this gallery allows viewers to appreciate the three-dimensional quality to his work and how it looks different from various angles. By distorting our perception of his artworks, Yi shocks viewers, redefining the traditional definition of art. Another renowned artis work displayed here is Yumiko Igarashi’s ‘Age of Innocence’ exhibition. With vibrant illustrations, viewers can feel the happiness radiating from her works.

In my opinion, this is a place that I would personally visit alone as I would feel less pressured to manage the time spent at the gallery. The gallery is extremely accessible to the general public, being only a five-minute walk from the Raffles Hotel bus stop or City Hall MRT station. The works displayed at the gallery are constantly changing so visitors can expect to find new works and be introduced to unique artists when they pay a visit to Art Now.

Holland Green Linear Park

The western end serves as an access point to Clementi Forest and the Rail Corridor, and the lush greenery there serves as a picturesque backdrop. Since the park is tucked away from the residential area of Holland Road, it is usually very quiet and uncongested, making it a perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park also acts as an escape for birds too! Many exotic birds like herons or kingfishers can be spotted feasting on the fish swimming in the canal, especially after a heavy downpour. Another unique feature of Holland Green Linear Park is a manmade cascading waterfall hidden beneath the wetland pond at the park’s western end. Though it is obscured if you enter from the eastern end, walking to the other end of the park where it meets the Rail Corridor provides a clear, unobstructed view of the waterfall.

All in all, Holland Green Linear Park’s tranquil and charming atmosphere drew me to it and made me feel as though I had stumbled upon a hidden oasis.

Sculptures by Chihiro Nakahara

A pleasing sight!

An unobstructed view of the waterfall

Finding Joy in Visiting Hidden Gems in Singapore

HortPark

Recommended by Matthias Njauw (2T05)

Want to get away from the tedium of city life? Are you considering a getaway to a tranquil, peaceful sanctuary, and perhaps following it up with a beginnerfriendly hike that passes through Henderson Waves, Mount Faber, and Sentosa? Well then, HortPark is just the place! Despite the rumbling of cars on the highway that is located just beside its entrance, HortPark somehow maintains its tranquility.

Take a stroll along HortPark and you will discover several paths that take you to picturesque spots! The park is home to several gardens which are built around various concepts or themes. For example, the Edible Garden hosts plants that are edible, whilst the Butterfly Garden is surrounded by plants that attract butterflies. These gardens provide insight into various fields of study: economic sustainability, ecology, and of course, horticulture! It is also a brilliant place to explore the variety of flora and fauna that can be found in Singapore.

Le Jardin

Recommended by Glenda Christopher Gregory (2T07)

Nestled in the heart of Fort Canning, Le Jardin restaurant captivates its diners with its exquisite cuisine and charming ambiance. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, guests can escape into a world of culinary delights and refined ambiance at Le Jardin. Its’ charming courtyard setting, lush greenery, and intimate atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. One must-try dish at Le Jardin is the boneless duck breast. The tender duck breast is well seasoned and expertly cooked to perfection, delivering a symphony of flavors with every bite. For drinks, indulge in the panconut latte, which combines the bold flavors of espresso, coconut milk, and pandan leaf with the creamy sweetness of vanilla

For those who wish to look beyond the creative botany and nature of the park, HortPark also is a great starting point (or ending point) for those wishing to explore Singapore’s natural sights. Not only is it a stone’s throw away from the Alexandra Arch bridge, which is connected to Mount Faber Park as well as the Henderson Waves via the Marang Trail—a path that cuts above the forests surrounding the park—but the views afforded by the trail are also some of the best scenery Singapore has to offer. If you are not into nature, you can visit Canopy HortPark, located just beyond the main entrance at Alexandra Road, for some scrumptious food. All this makes HortPark truly one of the best hidden gems in Singapore.

Boneless duck breast & sourdough bread with mixed salad

Panconut latte

Cottagecore dining vibes

Finding Joy in Visiting Hidden Gems in Singapore

Long Phung Vietnamese

Recommended by Dylan Leong (2T06)

Joo Chiat is known for its rich culture and many popular restaurants. However, most people tend to only explore the main streets, where the flashier pubs and restaurants are, and do not venture into the quieter areas. Because of this, the Long Phung Vietnamese Restaurant remains largely unknown. If you are growing bored of common Singaporean dishes, you should definitely pay Long Phung Vietnamese Restaurant a visit—you will not regret it!

Ssada Gimbab

Recommended by Chloe Pang (2T05)

Suffering from post-concert depression? Miss seeing all your K-Pop Idols on stage? Want a taste of Korea? Fret Not! You can now fll your bellies with authentic Korean food from Ssada Gimbab at Upper Bukit Timah Shopping Centre without burning a hole in your wallet. “Ssada Gimbab” means “cheap gimbap” in Korean—a highly apt name for this eatery which sells gimbap at wallet-friendly prices. Needless to say, their specialty is their gimbap, with their tonkatsu gimbap being the best of all in my opinion. If you’re craving something soupy, their stews like kimchi gimbap are sure to warm your soul and transport you to Seoul. Have you watched too many K-dramas and want to try tteokbokki eaten by famous Korean stars? You’ll definitely be able to! Furthermore, all these dishes are made by a Korean owner who helms the store. Trust me: Your tummy will thank you!

Though the restaurant may seem unassuming, the food that is served is authentic and really worth the trouble taken to find this restaurant. The restaurant is best known for their traditional Vietnamese spring rolls, but you should definitely try their pho as it closely resembles those you can find on the streets of Vietnam.

Delicious pho

Long Phung Vietnamese Restaurant

Ssada Gimbab

Tonkatsu gimbap

Rabokki

Finding Joy in Learning

We interviewed some of the students from the Class of 2023 who did well for the A-Level examinations to find out what were some of their favourite subjects and how they found joy in learning.

Odelia Lim (2T02)

1. What was your favourite subject as a student in CJC? Why did you enjoy that subject?

My favourite subject would have to be History. If I had to be honest, I actually detested the subject back in secondary school. However, the two years that I spent studying the subject in CJ would quickly change my feelings towards it and this is all because of my super dedicated and extremely committed tutors Ms Ana, Mr Tan, and Ms Janice. From their entertaining and insightful lectures to tutorials that gave us opportunities to role play as governments and states in order to better understand our content, they made this subject enjoyable. Thank you Ms Ana, Mr Tan and Ms Janice!

1. What was your favourite subject as a student in CJC? Why did you enjoy that subject?

2. What advice would you give your juniors to encourage them to find joy in learning?

My advice to find the joy in learning would be to adapt and utilise the skills you have learnt in lectures or tutorials when engaging in your hobbies and interests. As a bookworm, I would frequently find myself close reading the books I was consuming, a skill that I learnt during Literature lessons. This became my way of revising for the subject. This became a very useful form of revision and allowed me to also continue engaging in my hobbies throughout my A-Level journey. It personally made studying more enjoyable and helped develop my analytical skills which was extremely important for the subject.

I enjoyed literature and ELL the most. I greatly enjoyed the analytical aspect of both subjects which helped me critically appreciate the passages and texts that we analysed. Both subjects also allowed me to better understand the world that we live in, albeit in different ways. Literature is great at teaching us more about human nature, whereas ELL is wonderful for understanding the implicit meanings behind language used by others and how this affects society.

Kieran Chang 2T03

Deirdre Phua (2T06)

2. What advice would you give your juniors to encourage them to find joy in learning?

Studying with friends tends to make learning far more fun. It is always less painful to work your way through a hard problem or a difficult essay when you have friends to brainstorm with. Even if you and your friends are studying different subjects, seeing your friends studying hard is likely to influence you to study too. Having a solid foundation also makes studying more fun and less painful. Much of the frustration that comes with studying stems from misunderstandings about basic knowledge. Hence studying is more fun and mentally stimulating when the basics have been clarified.

1. What was your favourite subject as a student in CJC? Why did you enjoy that subject?

My favourite subject would be Geography as I got to learn about the interactions between humans and the environment on a deeper and broader level compared to secondary school. The most enjoyable part was the fluidity and ambiguity of many core arguments and I found myself connecting these arguments to other subjects such as History and GP. In fact, my A-Level GP essay was essentially a geography essay. I enjoyed thinking about the dynamic between us and our natural environment.

2. What advice would you give your juniors to encourage them to find joy in learning?

Joy of learning is cultivated through understanding what you are learning which I feel can only be done through many consultations with teachers. Honestly, it is difficult to enjoy a subject if you do not understand it at all, which is why it is important to consult your teachers to clear up any doubts you have and learn additional knowledge not mentioned in your notes. Only then can you start to appreciate your learning.

Finding Joy in Learning

Sammi Goh (2T28)

1. What was your favourite subject as a student in CJC? Why did you enjoy that subject?

I enjoyed studying General Paper. To me, General Paper is an intellectually invigorating subject. During General Paper lessons, I honed my critical thinking skills, prompting me to challenge assumptions and spark discussions by delving into global and regional issues. It has inspired me to approach matters from different perspectives, making me a more empathetic person who better understands the complexities that shape our society. Studying the subject was an immensely rewarding and truly humbling experience. I have become more conscious of our world, emboldening me to face the world more confidently.

1. What was your favourite subject as a student in CJC? Why did you enjoy that subject?

I enjoyed all the subjects that I chose, but if I had to choose one, it would definitely be Physics. Physics is quite a unique subject, as I enjoyed the content taught and how it is able to relate to and explain real-life phenomena. This makes the content less dry and always motivates me to find out more about certain topics to deepen my understanding. Most importantly, my Physics teacher, Mr Zac always made lessons interesting so that the content would be easy to understand.

1. What was your favourite subject as a student in CJC? Why did you enjoy that subject?

I think my favourite subject would probably be Chemistry. Although the content itself was challenging, I think my tutor taught it in a way that was engaging and quite interesting. I also enjoyed our small class size which helped to facilitate class discussion. I enjoyed being able to learn from my peers and I was not afraid to clarify my doubts with my tutor.

2. What advice would you give your juniors to encourage them to find joy in learning?

Studying in JC is a rigorous 2-year journey. The joy in learning is what will keep you going in this challenging endeavour, making your JC life more fulfilling. The moment you realise that you are studying to fuel your own curiosity, out of your own free will, rather than being “forced” to study for an examination is when you will truly enjoy learning. The true objective of learning is to unravel the mysteries in the world you live in and relish the joy when you satisfy your curiosity. Keep on questioning everything, and the satisfaction when you find the answers will bring you joy.

Ong Zhi Rong (2T15)

2. What advice would you give your juniors to encourage them to find joy in learning?

One piece of advice that I would give is to be grateful for the little things that you have done well. Be it getting the first tutorial question correct or passing your first test. This helps you to be more motivated and less stressed about not knowing everything, but to appreciate that you have learned something. This continuously pushes you to get the next thing correct and eventually master it. After all, it is all the little things that add up.

2. What advice would you give your juniors to encourage them to find joy in learning?

I think in a JC we are given a lot more freedom compared to secondary school to choose how we learn. For most students, syllabus content is briefly explained through common lectures or through SLS modules, but other than that we are free to choose how we approach our subjects. I remember spending most of JC experimenting with different studying methods to see what fits best. The methods I employed in secondary school were not so effective here, so I found myself switching techniques commonly throughout the year. Some of the methods I found effective include writing out the content and solving questions on a board where I could write freely. It made studying a lot more fun and I was able to find others who studied like me, making our study sessions more fruitful and fun. I think that being able to find what suits you is one way to find joy in learning.

Beyond the Classroom: Trip to Vietnam 2023

By Chloe Pang (2T05) and Matthias Njauw (2T05)

In November 2023, we visited Vietnam along with other H2 History and Geography students. In this article, we wax lyrical about some of the highlights of our trip!

Highlight 1:

Exploring the streets of the Old Quarter in Hanoi!

We studied the layouts of the streets within the Old Quarter. We learnt about the features of these streets such as the types of establishments and shops, the density of the shophouses, their cleanliness, and even the width of the sidewalks! It was also interesting to observe how the quarter had changed to accommodate tourism; over the years, the area is becoming more gentrified but, at the same time, the history of the city has been well-preserved. So much knowledge can truly be

Highlight 2:

Visit to the Thien Cung Limestone Cave at Ha Long Bay

Highlight 3:

The cave was adorned with stalactites hanging tightly from the ceiling, and stalagmites rising with mighty determination from the cave floor. It was as if nature itself had become an artist, bestowing the cave with a masterful touch. Some stalactites and stalagmites meet in the cave, forming majestic columns that glisten with moisture. The man-made lights add a lovely hue to the already enchanting ambiance of the cave. Everyone was busy marvelling at the intricate beauty of the cave.

Visit to the War Remnants Museum at Ho Chi Minh

The Museum contains exhibits that chronicle the timeline of the Vietnam War with multiple displays reflecting the immense destruction that the war wrought. We visited a photography exhibit that features photographs of the war taken by various war journalists. It is aptly named ‘Requiem’—a sobering token of remembrance of a dark chapter in history. As I walked past photograph after photograph, I realised the importance of learning history: history teaches us to unravel the complexities of conflicts, in the hopes that we will not repeat mistakes made in the past.

I’ve been walking for so long. How long does this street go one for???

Beyond the Classroom: Trip to Vietnam 2023

Highlight 4: Experiencing how the Vietnamese hid from the American soldiers during the Vietnam War

The Cu Chi Tunnels provided us with a unique window into the lives of the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. We learnt how they utilised the jungle to carry out guerilla warfare tactics such as the use of booby traps, as well as how they confused American troops by strategically misdirecting them. We even had the opportunity to crawl through a stretch of what used to be part of the Cu Chi Tunnels! The tunnels are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese. On the whole, visiting the tunnels was an enlightening experience as we learnt more about the grim realities of the Vietnam War.

Highlight 5: An equally heart-wrenching and meaningful visit to Mai Am Thien Duyen Orphanage

The visit was profoundly poignant and meaningful. Witnessing the children, born in the aftermath of Agent Orange, stirred a blend of empathy, sadness, and righteous indignation within us. Despite never having experienced the war themselves, they bear its burdens from birth, due to their parents who experienced the war. Our hearts were heavy with the knowledge that we could only offer donations and spend time with these resilient children.

Highlight 6: Tan Son Nhat International Airport! We’re going home!

And so, that brings an end to what was a truly unforgettable seven days in Vietnam! Overall, the trip was incredibly insightful and eye-opening experience for Geography and History students. We learnt invaluable lessons that can only be discovered beyond the classroom.

Public humiliation Why are there so many cameras! Which direction is Singapore in?

Be Yourself Day: Finding Joy in Fashion!

By Gladys Kee (2T03), Imesha Srimalee (2T04) and Ellynn Soh (2T06)

Many CJC students were eagerly anticipating the arrival of Be Yourself Day—the only day in the year where students can dress up in outfits of their choice. This year, the sheer variety of outfits worn by the students was dazzling—we saw students in idiosyncratic costumes such as banana costumes, and also students who were dressed to the nines in trendy outfits. We interviewed some of the students who caught our eye to ask them about the inspiration behind their outfits.

Velveetia, 2T06

I’ve been an avid Capybara lover since a few years back. This year I happened to get this shirt for my birthday so I decided to wear it for Be Yourself Day because I’m being myself by wearing it.

Isaiah, 1T06

Santa usually distributes gifts to spread positivity and cheerful vibes and that resonates with what I intend to do in my class. I wish to spread joy around as I wear this outfit and give away candies as well!