The “Makeshift” IB Survival Guide!
Two years back, my dad and my brother built this makeshift “mini driving range” construction; a large metal-framed cube with nettings on all sides except the entrance. Unfortunately, I believe only the animal kingdom has greatly benefited from it as a convenient source of shelter. Last Saturday, a small mynah trapped itself in the nettings. It flapped and squawked until it finally was free. Interestingly enough, it did not attempt to fly out the open end but instead flew from one side of the netting to another at various heights (as if it would have made a difference XD). It had the mindset that it was trapped within some unknown cage when in reality, freedom is there awaiting it. Finally, I nudged it out of its “prison”.
Especially in English A1, you will encounter books like “An Evil Cradling” and “The Outsider” that discuss such imprisonment of the mind. Over the past year in the IB, I feel I have certainly learnt a lot more than if I were to undertake any other course. My heart and my mind have become more receptive of the different opinions and cultures of my teachers and fellow colleagues. Yes, there are things which I completely disagree with but they do not hinder us from open discussions about the most controversial of topics ranging from religion to sexuality to feminism. This “openness” to express your views without being judged is one of my favourite aspects of the IB. Back in high school, such opportunities were rare. So, I challenge my colleagues and juniors to widen your horizons and accept the new challenges IB will offer you. In this globalized world, being a “jaguh kampung” (village champion) is not enough. Aim high and aim well. Let the IB shape you and make you a better person. Trust me; the more you resist, the harder it will get. Make the most of what you have. If we can survive one year, you can too! Do not be afraid to speak your mind but do be considerate of those around you.
Lesson 2: friends are more important than you know =). IB 5 is a very close-knit family and we all love each other dearly. We squabble (a lot) but when in difficulties, we stick together. I will always be grateful to those who were with me through my rough patches and I feel happy too when I help others too. My English teacher back in my old school used to tell us: ten years down the road, we will not remember our grades or our certificates, but we will remember our friends. The strongest of friendships I believe are made during our tertiary years. Mr Lawrence told Ken, Eugene and me: “You choose, friendship or an A”. So, stick with your friends. Mend broken relationships, as there is no point of not having friends around. You’ll never know when you might need them. Don’t be too egoistic to not say sorry. Be the better person and make the first move. This is speaking from observations and first-hand experience.
Grades do count but they are not everything. My mindset of education has personally evolved greatly under the influence of teachers like Mr Masukor, Mr Edward and Mr Lawrence, individuals who understand how global thinking will indeed make this world a better place. I study because I want to learn and not merely for the grade. You generate an EE to LEARN how to write a thesis but not merely completing it to receive your diploma. CAS is to GAIN knowledge and experiences but not just endless useless paperwork (although sometimes I beg to differ). Maths is no longer 1 + 1 = 2 but why and how is 1 + 1 = 2. Visualize! Blob plus blob will give you a bigger blob. =D. Mere regurgitation like we had in SPM is long gone. Memorizing will get you nowhere. All you need is to understand. Be a knowledge-absorbing sponge. Improve in areas that you need to and ask for help!!!
It is great to develop passions in new areas of life. Take risks! They are the most fun part of the IB. Challenge yourself to do something that you will never dream of doing. Don’t worry too much. Make IB as fun as possible. Fill your two years with a lot of laughter, hard work and passion. Take things in your stride. But remember, don’t procrastinate! Time management skills are the only thing that most of us have yet to develop. *cue nods of agreement from teachers*
I am going to miss a very dear teacher and I hereby dedicate this reflective piece to Mr Lawrence Kok Wing Khong. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! All the best, sir! I wish you weren’t leaving us “monkeys” behind just yet but I know how badly you want a holiday. Enjoy the break and keep in touch us over Facebook! (Yes, I still want to be queen but I promise I’ll cut down my reigning hours =D)
Disclaimer: This so feels like a personal journal but I hope it will be beneficial and encouraging to everyone. This is purely my opinions on what I have learnt over the past year in the IB and these views would differ from my colleagues’. So, all feedback is welcomed! =)
by Michelle Tan (June 08)
