You graduated in 2024 and are currently interning with the Admissions Department. What are your plans for the future?

My internship in the admissions department, while seemingly unrelated to my future career, has been excellent preparation for my upcoming studies in Animal Science at a university in New Zealand. It has equipped me with skills essential to the scientific community: teamwork, a keen attention to detail, and effective communication with diverse individuals.

These abilities will be vital, whether I'm collaborating with other animal scientists, conducting fieldwork, or engaging the public on critical animal welfare issues. My experience has especially taught me how to connect with people from all walks of life - this unique and valuable perspective will undoubtedly serve me well as I pursue my passion for animal welfare.

An Animal Science course goes far beyond the farm. What can students expect to study, and how does it impact our lives?

An Animal Science degree is a comprehensive programme that delves into subjects like animal nutrition and sustainable food production. Students have the opportunity to specialise in various fields, including animal nutrition, animal production, or even equine science.

The chance to major in equine science particularly resonated with me, as it builds on my volunteering experience with the Riding for the Disabled Association of Singapore (RDA). My journey with RDA began during my time at SJI International, where service learning was a core part of the curriculum. This hands-on experience with horses and riders with disabilities sparked a deep passion for animal welfare, a passion I am now eager to explore academically.

What motivated you to continue volunteering at the Riding for the Disabled Association of Singapore (RDA) after you graduated from SJI International? And what's the most surprising or valuable thing you've learned there?

Before graduating from SJI International, my daily routine often included volunteering at the RDA, especially on days when they needed extra help. My role was to assist young children with special needs during their weekly therapy riding sessions, which ran for ten weeks at a time. I helped them with basic yet crucial skills, using activities like balancing an egg on a spoon or reaching for a hula hoop to improve their mobility and coordination. The goal was to build their physical strength and confidence, particularly for those with physical or mental disabilities who struggled with walking or talking.

One of the most rewarding aspects was witnessing the children's remarkable transformation. In the first few sessions, some wouldn't speak to me at all. However, after consistent interaction over seven or eight sessions, they became noticeably friendlier and more comfortable. This continuity is vital, which is why the RDA tries to have the same volunteers, or "sidewalkers," work with the same riders to build a trusting relationship.

Beyond the therapy sessions, I also volunteered at a neighboring stable called Equal. This experience provided me with a crucial "behind-the-scenes" perspective. At the RDA, the horses are always prepared for a session; they are brought out with all the necessary equipment. 

In contrast, at Equal, I learned about the daily care that goes into keeping these animals healthy. I helped with everything from cleaning their stalls and preparing their food to exercising and bathing them. This experience taught me about the full scope of animal welfare, complementing the human-focused interaction I had at the RDA. 

Volunteering at both the RDA and a neighboring equine stable gave me two valuable perspectives on animal welfare. The RDA taught me about the profound impact horses can have on people, while the stable provided a crucial, behind-the-scenes look at the daily care and management required for their well-being. 

Together, these experiences taught me about the compassionate role of animal welfare in human therapy and the importance of dedicated animal care.
 

What were your favourite things about SJI International when you were a student?

The incredible sense of community was what I loved most about SJI International. Whether I was involved in CCAs, student councils, or just hanging out with friends, I always felt a genuine sense of belonging. The teachers were also a huge part of my experience - they were supportive, approachable, and truly cared for us.

I especially appreciate how the school encouraged us to think beyond our textbooks, with a strong focus on service and personal development. These are values that I am a strong advocate for and that have stayed with me ever since.

My journey from SJI International to my future academic pursuits was shaped by the power of hands-on experience through service learning programmes. These programmes offered diverse and wide-ranging volunteering opportunities, which not only helped me discover a deep passion for animal science but also profoundly changed my lifestyle, making volunteering a part of my everyday life after graduation. This path has taught me that stepping outside your comfort zone and being exposed to new things is more than just a lesson in empathy - it's a crucial step toward finding your calling and making a meaningful impact in the world.