Your monthly feed of Sheltoner news!

SHELTONTIMES issue four March 2009

EGL L
Learning
i JJourneys Contents
On 20 February, the EGL student visited the National • EGL Learning Journeys
Museum of Singapore as part of their learning journey. The • A Brief Shelton Experience
group arrived at the museum at around 2 o’clock in the
• Tete a Tete with William &
afternoon and were then welcomed by a very energetic
Hendrick
British volunteer, who herself brought the students to an
understanding of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage and • Four Koreans bid SCI Farewell
history. The students’ favourite part of the trip was the Living • Up to the beat!
Food Gallery where they actually smelt the traditional
• Something New
Singaporean food and spices.
• In the eyes of a Singaporean
On March 6, the students visited the Jurong Bird Park at • Saw De Boe’s Shelton Experience
Boon Lay. The whole day was both fun and educational to • My Aspiration
the students. Watching the bird shows gave the students the
chance to learn more about the tamed birds and to • Tips on surviving the language of
appreciate the wonders of nature. Environmental Business
preservation and conservation were also emphasized in
these shows.

These Learning Journeys allow the students to embark on,

extend and enrich their educational experience. Besides
Coming Up
helping to make real and concrete what has been learnt in
schools, • LJ Trip to Singapore Science Centre
9th Mar 2009
Learning Journeys broaden the mental horizons of
• Shelton Fair
students and contribute to their total development. 16th Mar 2009

• Shelton Science Fair

A Sneak Peek.... 27th Mar 2009

For this issue... At The Scene

e
• We asked our students to share their experiences at school that would encourage, inspire
and empower other students.
• High School Common Tests
• Meet Vanessa and Aryanto. They are students in Mass Communication who have
March 12-13, 2009
volunteered to join the editorial team for this Newsletter.
• Read Stella’s article about her CCA experience. • EGL Term Examinations
March 16-17,2009
• William and Hendrick, two SU alumni who have recently joined
the school as full time staff, unravel the joys of reaching their goals and starting on new one.

Shelton College International

 SHELTONTIMES
Events
A Brief Shelton Experience By Merla Quiñones

Febru
February was a very busy month for SCI as we hosted around 75 visitors from neighboring
oringg
countries, Thailand and Indonesia.
Students, parents and teachers came to have a glimpse and a firsthand experience of what it’s like to study in our school.

The first batch of visitors comprised parents and students from Thailand who came on February 9, 2009. The visitors were treated to a
presentation of our O and A level programmes, a rendition of songs by our talented Thai student Pro Akkhosuwan and a campus tour. The
visitors were assigned classes to sit-in.

Young students and teachers from Yayasan Pendidikan Shafiyyatul Amaliyyah (YPSA), Medan, Indonesia also came to experience Shelton’s
hospitality. Shelton student ambassadors eagerly ushered our guests to the different classrooms. They were even lucky to join the dance
CCA as it happened on the same day, 18 February 2009.

to Rememb er
An e n coun ter
Thai visitors during the orientation

SCI Student Ambassadors with

Ms Maria, Ms Merla & Ms Yen

1 Shelton College International

 SHELTONTIMES
Events
Four Koreans Bid SCI Farewell By Antonio

Gwak Jae-ra, Kim Dong Min, Kim Hye Won and Jang Da Hui bid their classmates and mentors farewell last February 27, 2009, after
completing a month of English lessons. They joined the EGL (English as a Global Language) classes and served one month of internship with
the school. These students took shifts in several offices where they shared in the work of their cooperating teacher-mentor. They worked on
rotation as front desk assistant, assistant librarian, I.T. assistant and student affairs officer.

In January 2009, they went on a Learning Journey to Little India accompanied by their host Ms. Merla Quinones. They gave an oral
presentation of their experiences in Singapore and in SCI to their EGL classmates and teachers. Ms. Maria Desengano, Senior Manager for
Academics also witnessed the presentation.

When asked about their experiences they all agreed that their internship was the most challenging experience. “How to effectively use the
English language to communicate with different people of different needs was a practical application of what we had learnt in class. It was
tough but we made it through.”

Thanks to our mentors who helped us ‘till the very end.

re Pictu re s !
Mo
Final Project Presentation

With EGL teachers & Classmates

2 Shelton College International

 SHELTONTIMES
Events
Up To the Beat! By Antonio

to the b eat!
Dancing

School doesn’t have to be boring. On 4 February, SCI opened dance classes for all its members. The activity started as one of the CCAs for
students and later emerged as an extra –curricular activity for both students and staff. Dance CCA members welcome interested students and
teachers to join in the fun every Wednesday and Friday from 4:00 PM until 6:30 PM. Street dancing, focused on hip-hop, as well as modern
Latin dance were two of the dance starters. The activity begins with warm-up exercises and proceeds to the main basic steps. It closes with a
more relaxing and cooling down routine. Jerry Lee, a Singaporean professional dance teacher said “Anyone can dance. You just have to find
your inner rhythm.” True enough, even those with two-left-legs could actually dance to the beat! After a day’s trial, the teachers and students
claimed that dancing is rejuvenating and energizing rather than tiring and stressful.

The dance CCA aims to build confidence and poise among its members. The dances allow the dancer’s
body to lose self consciousness by surrendering to the rhythm of the music.
Their exposure to the different types of music allows the opportunity to learn to express different moods and attitude towards the body.

3 Shelton College International


In Focus
Tete a Tete with William and Hendrik:
New Singapore Permanent Residents join the staff of their alma-mater
I’ve seen them a few times coming in and out of the Academic Room
filling up their homework submission forms although I have never
had the chance to meet them personally. Our next encounter was
probably during their graduation day. I will never forget their faces
since they were the first two graduates from Staffordshire University
in SCI.
Many of us, would probably prefer to venture in other places right
after graduation. They’re different! I had the chance to sit with them
for a chat. With delighted smiles, they told me that they received
their PRship (Permanent Resident in-principle) very recently from the
Immigration Checkpoint Authority of Singapore. This status has
given them more privileges to enjoy. These two very young
Indonesians have decided to stay at Shelton even in the midst of
other opportunities around. But this time around they came to
school not to do their regular course work but to work with their new
colleagues who were their former teachers and mentors.
“It’s a matter of time before we will be
managing our own business.” When I asked what
it’s going to be, they both said, “A school, an
international school.”
4 Shelton College International
SHELTONTIMES
By Antonio
I pondered, what have they experienced in this school that made
them so attached to it?
Hendrick: “I miss all the staff and teachers I had when I first
came here. They were very accommodating and warm. I am
happy that Ms. Roja and Ms. Maria are still with us, I really had a
great time learning with them! We did not only cover the
contents of our modules, but we also shared life’s lessons from
our varied experiences. My teachers guided me throughout my
entire Shelton experience.”
William: “I think that if we ask our students about Shelton, their
first comment would be about their teachers and their mentors.
Everyone is very friendly. They would never let you down! I also
miss all my classmates. If there is one thing that really helped me
to improve my English, I think it was the opportunity to practice
it with them, not only in our classroom activities but especially
when we went for picnics or barbeque parties. I think that having
international classmates will push you to really use English as the
medium to communicate. Otherwise life as a student in a foreign
land will be very dull.”
Anyone new to Singapore would need a period of adjustment.
For William, apart from leaving his comfort zones in terms of
“everything I needed was within my reach”. He was almost
always concerned about money as he used to compare prices
here and in Indonesia.
Continue on next page...
 SHELTONTIMES
In Focus
Tete a Tete with William and Hendrik:

Through time, he managed to adjust and to fit in. In fact, there were times
when he had to save his allowance because he had not used up all his money
for the month. Family support and encouragement has sustained Hendrick in
Singapore. It was very essential for him to know his environment and its
culture and it was a matter of time before he was finally acclimatized in
Singapore.

“Things became easier when I came to terms with the

new situation I was in.”
“I just had to live like a Singaporean, and forget my old way of life.” His
decision to leave his old self and build a new him was a blessing. “My parents
are happy to see a lot of changes in me.”

William said, “My SU experience was a bit tough and challenging. Its varied
modules, creative projects and exciting examinations have now been
converted into something that is practical and fulfilling. I am happy to reap
the fruits of my labour.”

Hendrik with a gleam on his face, added “Our names will be in SU history
since we were the first two students who benefited from their program here
at SCI” “We didn’t have to go to the UK and spend so much for the same
academic pursuits.”
Left: William Right: Hendrick

When asked for an advice that they could share win students who are contemplating pursuing an
education in an international school, this is what they had to say:
William: They just have to work hard and that’s it! A good international school such as SU and SCI will bring you closer to your dreams.
The use of English in all classes is also a big plus in international schools because it is the language spoken in business all over the world.

Hendrik: Pursuing an education in an international school is good for the students in terms of curriculum content and the international
environment itself. The content is not localized. It brings the world closer to your very eyes. The foreign students also help you to
progress in the English language as it is the language spoken by all. An international experience is also a good teacher in terms of taking
responsibility for your independence from home.

William and Hendrik are the first two graduates of Staffordshire University (SU) in Singapore. SU offers degrees in Mass Communication,
Travel Tourism & Hospitality, Business Administration, Business Management, Marketing Management, International Business
Management and Human Resource Management

5 Shelton College International

 SHELTONTIMES
By Vanessa d/o Sundrasagar
In The Eyes of a Singaporean Nationality: Singaporean
Course: Dip. in Mass Communications

M name is Vanessa and I’m a Singaporean. I speak perfect Singlish. I live for
My
unhealthy food like ‘nasi lemak’ and ‘char kway teow’. I think joining queues
to collect hello kitty dolls are a perfect way to utilize my time.

I first got to know about Shelton at an education fair held in Suntec city last
year. I was walking around in my new shoes, which gave me painful blisters at
the end of the day. But, that’s another story for another day. The thing that
attracted me to find out more about the school was the video camera. I was
very interested in Mass Communications and seeing that camera in the booth
made me walk in with a silly grin on my face, to find out more.

A week later, I came down to Shelton College to get an idea of where I would
be studying. I met Mrs. Yen Lim who explained to me what I would be learning
in Mass Communications. I then, started my Certificate in Business
Administration on April 2008.

My first day in Shelton was a breeze with the friendly teachers and classmates.
Ms. Janet taught me for 4 months and for someone like me who hated
numbers, I actually caught on pretty quickly with Ms. Janet’s patient teaching
and guidance.

I went on to do my Diploma in Mass Communications conducted by a teacher

who is the epitome of the Greek god, Adonis. You know what I mean, I’m sure
you, my fellow female schoolmates have made eyes at Mr. Karan too. Jokes
aside, lessons were always interesting and it also broadened my thinking and
made me understand more about the media. I learnt to not only watch but
also understand the ideas behind movies or dramas. My favourite assignment
to date was the one where I got the chance to make my own advertisement
for Shelton.

My most memorable experience in Shelton was when I got

the chance to take part in the 15th Anniversary
celebrations last year.
Vanessa in her traditional
Let me refresh your memories. I was the one who represented Singapore in a Indian-Singaporean costume during the
blue Indian traditional costume during the fashion show. You know, the nicest 15th anniversary celebration
one there? I’m kidding!

Everyone looked really good that day. When I was asked to participate
I was rather reluctant at first, as I did not know most of the people who
were taking part. But, I was still excited. There was this certain
“glam”(glamorous) factor about telling my parents that I would be
participating in the fashion show. Practicing was mostly fun as I got to
know more of my fellow models. It gave me a chance to make more
international friends. Coming from a local government school, the only
international student I met was a Singaporean who had a Caucasian
dad.

I remember the few days before the 15th anniversary celebrations.

Practices were stepped up and everyone was feeling the tension. The
evening of the anniversary, we were all sitting in the library preparing for
a last minute rehearsal. I was a bundle of nerves then. I could imagine
myself falling flat on my face, tripping over myself and basically ruining
the whole show. But, it never happened. You guys saw how well I did
right?!

I’m really thankful that Shelton gave me the chance to

participate in the Anniversary and to share a part of
their joy.

6 Shelton College International

 SHELTONTIMES
By Stella Kirana Salim
Something New Class: O Level
Nationality: Indonesian

I’m from Indonesia and I’m in O’ level Secondary Four

preparing to sit for my ‘O’ Level papers in October this year.
When the school first announced that CCA (Co-curricular
Activities) is required for all students, I was quite reluctant
about it. I thought it was just going to be a cut in my already
tight schedule. Nevertheless, I enrolled in badminton. Why
badminton? It was because I wanted to do more exercises to
improve my health. (In joining the CCA, hopefully, I can lose
some kilos!)

There are actually other CCAs in school such as the Dance

Club, Table Tennis and Singing (to mention a few.) I had to
choose carefully because managing time and expectations
isn’t quite easy. I am too shy to join the dance CCA and I might
be the only girl in the Table Tennis Club. Finally, the actual
dilemma was between singing and badminton. I thought
singing was just a matter of practice since I know the basics.
With this in mind I opted for Badminton. I am totally zero at it
but I wouldn’t mind learning something new! This CCA is not
just for fun because our CCA master records our scores too.

Believe it or not, at this point in time, badminton is the only sport that
I like. If you ask me why, I do not have a ready answer. I just enjoy
playing the game!

Badminton is a very popular sport in Indonesia.

In fact, many people say that that most Indonesians are good at
playing badminton. I could actually tell just by looking at my
Indonesian friends who are in the CCA. This has encouraged me to
play better. I do not want to be the only one who can not play this
game. I do not want to be left behind. (It reminds me of the Shelton
motto, “At Shelton, Nobody is left behind.”) If others can do it, why
can’t I do the same thing?

Incidentally, my Chinese and Indonesian friends who are close to me

also chose to be in the badminton CCA. I didn’t n’t have any clue that
they would also choose the same CCA. (Thankk God, they did!) I think
that, it is a more enjoyable game when played ed with people you like.
Sometimes, they teach me new moves because ause I am just a beginner. Indonesia's Maria
At first, I didn’t know how to smash but I have
ave slowly learnt how to do Kristin Yulianti
it. I’ve also learnt many things more. I just hope that one day I will be
at the same level as them.

Anyway, learning something new is not ot bad at all. It motivates you to

try more and more. I couldn’t play badminton
adminton before but I was brave
enough to try it. I do not worry aboutt my score, because at least I have
gained a new experience and I have ve learnt so many new things.

Do not be afraid off somethingg new because

you’ll never know what it is unless you try.

7 Shelton College International


My Aspiration
Five months ago, I was a new student in Mass
Communication. I didn’t really know a lot about this
school but after a few weeks in class, I felt settled and
at home. At SCI I have found many friendly people,
with whom I could share my experiences, troubles,
problems and anxieties. My lecturers/mentors have
consistently encouraged me to persevere in my
studies and to always seek opportunities for self
growth and development. In SCI I try to maximize the
use of the school facilities to add joy and fun to what
I do in school. Now, I can play badminton, basketball,
table tennis and football. I have improved a lot in my
reading, writing and speaking skills in English
because all my subjects are taught in English. Since it
is an International school there is always somebody
who does not speak my own tongue.
Mr. Karan is the friendliest and most responsible
lecturer I have met in Shelton. Every Mass
Communication student likes him very much because
he can handle all foreign students enrolled in his
class.
8 Shelton College International
SHELTONTIMES
By Aryanto Krisnandanu
Course: Dip. in Mass Communication
Nationality: Indonesian
He always guides us on ‘how to catch a topic and
how to understand it.” He also shows appreciation
for our efforts because he himself believes in its
power.
Mass Communication (or MassComm) is the course I
am taking. The term is used to describe the
academic study of
the various means by which individuals
and entities relay information through
the mass media to large segments of
the population at the same time.
It is usually understood to relate to newspaper and
magazine publishing, radio, television and film, as
these are used both for disseminating news and for
advertising.
Some of my subjects include Creative Writing,
Fundamentals of Marketing, Media Management,
Advertising-Planning and Management, and Public
Relations-Principles and Practices. All my lecturers
are highly qualified professionals with varied
experiences and portfolios. I guess it takes concrete
experiences to be able to teach these subjects.
Someday, I want to be like my
teachers. I want to experience
working in the industry and later on
impart my knowledge to others by
becoming a teacher.

Saw De Boe’s Shelton Experience
First of all, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Saw De
Boe, and I am from Myanmar. I had been introduced to this
college by Smart Agency which gave me the chance to achieve
my diploma at Shelton International College, Singapore, which I
have to say is the most suitable and best college for students like
me who are looking to be successful and getting a good career.
I attended and completed my Diploma in Travel, Tourism and
Hospitality Management and in order to successfully complete it,
I had to finish the two aspects of the course – theory and
industrial attachement.
Being a foreign student, I was feeling apprehensive and afraid
when I first attended class. However, I realised that it was nothing
like that at all. The warm welcome I received from my teachers
and school stuff all gave me much encouragement.
All the lessons I had been taught were
interesting and filled with information that
would be useful for my future career.
Thanks to nice and patient teachers, I was able to easily
understand and keep up with the Diploma programme. And I
managed to pass all my exams with flying colours.
9 Shelton College International
SHELTONTIMES
Upon completion of my Theory aspect of my Diploma course, I
was sent to Chan Brothers Travel, the biggest travel company in
Singapore, to begin my industrial attachment. I am very grateful
to Rachel who found me this company because I would definitely
gain a lot of experience and exposure.
I learnt many things at Chan Brothers Travel – serving customers,
both good and bad as well as the sales aspects of my job.
Without Shelton’s help, it was almost impossible to secure and
attachment here in Singapore, but because of Shelton, I was
given the best chance to shine.
I would like to encourage all the students to maximise the
chances that Shelton offers. Put your trust in Shelton and do your
best. Finally, I would like to give thanks to all my teachers, school
staff and Rachel who always monitored our needs.
Thank you Shelton
Saw D
S De B
Boe
3rd August 2008
 SHELTONTIMES
Tips on Surviving the Language of Business By Vanessa Sundrasagar

We all encounter language problems on a daily basis. Being a Singaporean sometimes, I cannot even understand what some of my fellow
Singaporeans are trying to say. I would imagine that it is worse for you guys who are here to study with English as your second language.

First of all, let me tell you about a funny experience I had because a friend could not understand what I was saying. We were having lunch when
I loudly declared that I needed a new earpiece. My friend gave me a weird look so I quickly corrected myself and said that I needed new
earphones to listen to my music. She replied by saying that, “Oh! I thought you were deaf or something”.

I have asked a few of the students in Shelton about the problems they faced. Being from a foreign country, most of them were shy or afraid to
speak in English fearing that they would be wrong.
Well, fear not! Vanessa is here to help with some helpful tips!

First up, getting to know your words.

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write better English.

I hope these tips will be of help you speak and

10 Shelton College International