SBS
PALS
Ow Ji Tsong (Food Science with Nutrition)
PALS leader for "Organic Chemistry" from 2013-2015
SBS PALS veterans
Oh Dylan
Ben Lim Hong Sheng
Chew Chin Lynn
Ho Jiat Qing
Lee Yun Yee
Loh Zi Han
Ruth Tham
Natasha Anne Fernandez
Tan Kiat Liang
Low Pinn Yee
Wong Chee Xiong
Ng Seng Bee
Felix Mea Hing Jian
Chan Shook Pui
Chong Jun Yi
Vincentsia Vienna Vanessa
Ivg Ng
Testimonial
When I first heard about PALS from my lecturers, I thought it was just about tutorial sessions conducted by the seniors to their juniors. When I was nominated to be a PALS leader I accepted the offer without a second consideration as I have always loved to teach and share knowledge or personal experiences. But after researching about PALS and PASS sessions, I was in awe, because there is actually so much more than I have imagined. It's about sharing your knowledge and learning experiences with your juniors in a creative, interactive and joyous way.
PALS is a very good programme for both the leader and first year students. Not only it helps to foster the relationship between juniors and seniors, through PALS, leaders like me get to develop many soft skills like leadership, communication and problem solving skill; while the juniors get to approach the seniors and raise question that they are afraid to ask in class. This helps to improve their academic performance, bridge the gap between seniors and juniors, and create a heart-warming and friendly environment for the new students so that they can adapt to the school faster.
How has PALS changed me?
Well, I have become more confident especially when it is about talking in front of public. I was a PALS leader for 2 years and I observed a good change in myself throughout the journey. First, I have learned numerous interesting ways to conduct a PASS or P2P session, either through questions and answers, quizzes and puzzles, mind-maps, or small group discussions. I have also learned about the interactive activities that can be done and basically how to communicate with students, to gain trust and confidence.
Recommendation for current and future PALS leaders.
"Love what you do and do what you love."
Always put yourself in their shoes.
Think if they will like your way of teaching. If it's a No. Do something about it.
Responsibility is certainly number one, it gives you credibility and trust. Engaged with the students heartily and helped them with your passion, loves and knowledge. Good luck !
Ang Chiew Teng (Biomedical Science)
PALS leader for "Principles of Life Sciences" from 2013-2015
Pardip Sidhu (Biotechnology)
PALS leader for "Organic Chemistry" from 2013-2015
Testimonial
The PALS programme creates a win-win situation for both the students and PALS Student Leaders. Not only that students can reinforce and/or gain a sold understanding on the topics discussed, but it also sharpens many of the important soft skills within the student leader. These soft skills includes, presentation skills, interpersonal skills and time management skills. The environment in a PASS or P2P session is very casual. No pressure, no stress. Student leaders always welcome any form of interaction from their juniors to create a very fun and memorable learning session far different from those in lectures and tutorials. Another rewarding element is that they can forge friendship which creates our school an even friendlier place to be. I was very glad to be the PALS Leader for Organic Chemistry. I always believed that teaching is a noble thing to do. Helping others is like helping myself. Any forms of questions are always welcomed from my students be it during the sessions or even outside the sessions and I do my very best to answer them. At the end of the day, I feel satisfied seeing my juniors being able to reach their academic goals and to proceed their ultimate goal which is graduation.
How PALS has changed me?
One important element is time management. As I progressed though the higher semesters, it was vital that I keep myself with the flow of ever harder modules with heavier assignments and exams. Another element is to find ways into getting attention from my students as sometimes I feel that my ways do not gain any attention. This is when I found my style; humor and making things more competitive in class. Hence, it has taught me on problem solving and adaptation. I also made a lot of friends. I am grateful that they look up to me as a senior and that has lead me to take on as a role model and set a good example for my juniors.
Recommendation for current and future PALS leaders
Remember, there is no pressure in PASS or P2P. Though they will be challenges, don’t let them bother you too much. Help is always there with our dedicated lecturers, Dr. Phelim Yong, Dr. Neo and Dr. Ewe Joo-Ann! They are always open to your concerns regarding PALS. Take on this role with the awareness that you’re helping them to get through difficulty. Let this be your motivation to execute your duties. You now play a part in their journey towards obtaining education. Lastly, find your teaching style. Many leaders have their own styles, be it serious, soft-spoken or even humorous. Don’t rush into things especially when you’re new. Again, we always have the support from SBS and SSC to assist in succeeding!