AGUSTIN XUE Class 5B2( 2013)
GO OUT, EXPERIENCE, AND LIVE FULLY
Agustin Xue was the top student at the N-Levels Examinations in 2012. He lives alone in Singapore and has been managing himself for the past seven years.
When I received my N-Level results, I was excited and proud to be the top student. To some, this may not seem a very great achievement as they probably think that I must have sacrificed all my leisure time to study. Maybe they even think that I had cut myself off from everyone just to do well. The truth is I did it with only two strategies: proper time management and good self-discipline.
I did not spend all my time on my studies. I had multiple Co-curricular Activities in school – Volleyball, Soccer, and at one point, Basketball too. I was also a National Education ambassador through which I later became a Student Councillor. Out of school, I attended the Singapore Youth Flying Club and the Boxing gym regularly. I wanted to live my life to the fullest and enjoy all the activities that gave me a sense of satisfaction and achievement. I wanted to optimise my free time with meaningful and fun activities.
How did I go about managing all these activities? I believe that with 24 hours in a day, I will definitely have that hour or two to spare. All I need is the determination and passion to bring myself to do something that I find meaningful.
My parents have been based in Hong Kong for about seven years now, and I have been living alone. Our school value of Self-discipline has become a mantra to me. No one forces me to study, or to have that many commitments. I choose to participate in all the activities on my own accord and I take pride in all that I have done.
I must clarify however, that having commitments and excelling in them are two different aspects. I need to learn how to manage my expectations. For example, I was never an outstanding Volleyball player but it was not about being the best or outstanding player that really mattered to me. What was more important was the camaraderie I forged. I met some of the nicest friends, and gained experiences that enriched me as a person. Participating in Volleyball has taught me resilience and the ability to get back up on my feet despite facing adversities and disappointments.
I believe that everyone has the potential to excel; and my advice will be to live fully, go out, take part in meaningful activities, and then when it comes to studies, concentrate fully and push yourself to the very end.
Our Story: School is where We Aspire and Grow 013