SJI International was truly special. I don’t think I’ll ever find a more nurturing environment that prioritises character development above all else. That focus showed up in our classes, our activities, our trips, and even in our academic struggles. I wasn’t exactly a top student (in fact, I’m pretty sure I was constantly on every teacher’s radar, tanking my grades).   

Some of my most memorable times at SJI International include playing football on the top pitch with my closest friends - nothing quite like it. I also cherish the Geography, Biology, and Service trips we went on together; those adventures brought us closer and created lasting bonds. And then there were the free periods when we’d chill and let the world slow down for a while.

Nevertheless, I always had a quiet confidence that character development, resilience, and interpersonal skills would serve me well beyond the classroom. I believed that when the time came to apply myself fully, the academic results would follow — and in time, they did. 

Life After Graduation: From School to Scrubs

After SJI International, I jumped straight into National Service, serving as an ambulance paramedic. It was an isolating transition at first, especially coming from the international school bubble, but it became a defining chapter of my life. The struggle, the confusion, even the envy of others seemingly moving on faster than me - all of it built resilience. I floundered initially, unsure how to fit in or find my footing. But once I accepted that the next two years were mine to shape, I started pushing myself harder. I threw myself into the work and achieved more than I ever expected: earning accolades, gaining confidence, and maybe even outpacing many of my peers in the end. It's not bad for a soft international school snowflake like myself.

Miraculously, I got into medical school, thanks partly to NS, giving me a (somewhat foolishly romanticised) view of healthcare. I studied medicine at the University of New South Wales, and it was… humbling. Picture being Hawkeye trying to keep up with the rest of the Avengers. That was me for most of med school, surrounded by people who felt they were built for this. But slowly, things clicked. I found my rhythm, immersed myself in the local culture, and escaped the international student bubble. By my final year, I even managed to snag an academic prize in a speciality area usually dominated by my more brilliant colleagues.

I worked as a doctor in Sydney for two years, including a six-month stint in a rural town that gave me some of my best memories and friendships. 

SJI International’s Timeless Values: A Compass for Life

Then life threw a curveball, and I returned to Singapore for family reasons. That transition hit hard. Singapore’s work culture is no joke, and I often feel like I’m barely keeping my head above water. But if my life’s pattern holds, it’s just a matter of time before the penny drops again.

You learn who you are when life hits hard. And when it does, you’ll find that SJI International trained you well. It shapes you into someone who is values-driven, compassionate, and maybe even a little idealistic (in a good way). 

You’ll also notice your perspective stands out. I’ve worked with colleagues who struggle to think beyond a set framework - not because they aren’t smart, but because they’ve never been encouraged to think out loud or differently. SJI International fosters that freedom of thought and expression.

And let’s not forget leadership. It doesn’t churn out cookie-cutter leaders; we remember the kindness and empathy we were shown growing up, which became our leadership compass. Later in life, you’ll face challenges that feel strangely familiar, and you’ll realise SJI International quietly prepared you for them all along.

If there’s one place in the world where making mistakes is encouraged, it’s SJI International — and that’s beautiful.

Advice for Current Students

Step outside your comfort zone. Seriously - now's the time. Try everything, talk to people you wouldn't usually hang out with, and don't sweat the opinions of others. Be honest and make decisions you can live with when no one else is watching.

Take your academics somewhat seriously. You can't just flip a switch when you decide to get serious. The brain is like a muscle, so engage it early, and you'll thank yourself later. Neuroplasticity is real, my friends. I tried to flip that switch only in my final year, and let's say — it was like dragging a boulder uphill. Possible, but unnecessarily painful. 

It might sound like an oxymoron, but working hard can be your most incredible talent. Most importantly, remember to enjoy it. There's magic in the moment - don't miss it by looking too far ahead.