Forum: Let students do something just because they enjoy it
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These days, it feels like everything we students do has to serve a purpose. A hobby becomes a “skill”, an activity becomes a “leadership opportunity”, and every achievement is carefully collected for our portfolios and future applications.
Even when we are doing something simply because we enjoy it, we may find ourselves wondering how it could benefit us in the future. Somewhere along the way, I wonder if we have forgotten how to simply enjoy our interests for what they are.
Our system encourages students to participate in co-curricular activities (CCAs), competitions and enrichment programmes. These CCAs can help students develop confidence, discipline and teamwork, while competitions can push us to discover what we are capable of.
However, when students begin choosing activities mainly because they “look good” on a portfolio, their original purpose can easily be lost.
This mindset can extend far beyond CCAs. A student who enjoys drawing may feel pressured to enter competitions. Someone who likes playing an instrument may feel that they should obtain certification. Even volunteering can become another achievement to list on an application.
Singapore students are taught to value preparation, efficiency and making good use of our time. We are encouraged to constantly prepare for the next examination, school, opportunity or career. While these are useful attributes, a life measured only by output can eventually feel empty.
If every activity must produce something measurable and practical, where is the space to do something simply because we enjoy it?
Clarisher Ang, 14
Secondary 2