While we've been mugging our socks off for the upcoming prelims and promos, APOLLO'S very own brand of bullboys and bullgirls have been featured on the papers for multiple times this term! Our seniors have by no doubt set us high standards to challenge ourselves with!

Let's have a brief recap..

First up, Hwa Chong had always boasted a tradition of producing SAFOS awardees, but this year, we're really proud to announce that both of Hwa Chong's awardees are from APOLLO, and they are none other than Koh Zhan Wei Aaron and Tan E-An Zech from 09A14. Both of them were exemplary trailblazers in several aspects of school life, apart from looking extremely awesome on the papers.

Aaron.. just chilling out

Zech looking awesome even without hair

Congratulations to Aaron and Zech! We're proud of you!

But that's not all! A few days later we received further news! This time, Aaron's handsome face was published all over different forms of media, this time, as Hwa Chong's 51st President's Scholar! At this point in time, we're sure you've heard of his story, and here's what our very own senior has to say to us, in an exclusive mini-interview just for Apollo from the man himself:

Dear Juniors,

It was just a year ago when I was in the exact same position as all of you are. Studying for Prelims was a nightmare in itself; not to mention the constant worries of the impending A Levels as well as applications for university places and scholarships. It seemed like an arduous journey that would never end. The countless hours (and nights even) studying in the consult area, library, left and right wings were mentally tiring and consuming. I guess what's running through your minds are questions like "what if I don't do well for As" or "can I do well enough to achieve what I want".

If what I've just described resonates deeply within you, don't worry- because you're not alone. Many seniors before you have been there, experienced the same worries, and eventually excelled through hard work. Most importantly, you have one another- your comrades in arms in this battle of a lifetime. Give each other the moral support you all need. Talk to each other about your worries. Study together. Help one another.

'Hard work pays off' is a commonplace advice dispensed freely by our parents, teachers, mentors. Yet, there was a time I thought my faith in it was decimated. I did not do as well as I had expected for my A levels. It was a devastating blow because I had put in an incredible amount of effort over the many years of my education in Hwachong. At the point in time of the release of my results, I knew I didn't make the offers from my UK universities and the US university results weren't out as well. My scholarship offer was being reviewed. I was in Basic Military Training, stuck on Tekong without any ability to control my fate. It was perhaps one of the lowest points in my life.

Yet, within the short span of a couple of months, my fortunes turned around. I managed to get into Penn (which I am thoroughly enjoying now) and retain my scholarship. In retrospect, I guess the hard work over the years gave me a track record that redeemed me. Also, my performance in the military and my internship at Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Singapore Police Force were extenuating factors.

In essence, even if you're feeling like you're at an all-time low from the insane amount of mugging, know that your life will definitely be better after As. Feel the pressure that you're facing, and relish it by turning stress into a motivating force. Don't ever give up when the going gets tough or when things don't go your way. Do your best in As, for that's what counts most. If you've always been doing badly or mediocrely, it doesn't mean that will or should continue. Step up the pace. If you've always been doing well, know that falling is still possible. Should any of you have any problems/ queries or want somebody to talk to, feel free to drop me an email at kohzhanweiaaron@gmail.com or Facebook message me

Keep the faith. Believe that hard work pays off- strive, strive to do your best.

Because I know you can be, the very best.

Once again, congratulations to Aaron and we wish you all the best in your future!

I'm sure we'll heed his words of advice and uphold Apollo's fine tradition of producing awesome, bright people.

WAIT NO LONGER PEOPLE (if you haven't started), ITS TIME TO MUG OUR HEADS OFF.

Live Loud, Live Proud.

Apollo Faculty Committee 2011-2012