Paying it Forward

As a student with a stellar academic record, a recipient of several high-profile awards and who’s actively involved in community service, H Sharanya Pillai epitomises the well-rounded student who excels both academically and in her values.

As the Community Service Director in Anderson Junior College’s (AJC) Interact Club, Sharanya was heavily involved, from the planning to implementation, of numerous community service projects. One such project would be the “Fun Fitness” event, which involved 400 people from RAYZ – a community catered to those with special needs. Every week, she also visited the Singapore Cheshire Home for the Severely Disabled to help with the chores and to read to the residents.

‘Serving the community has moulded me into a different person. I discovered my passion in helping the less fortunate during my Girls Brigade days in Riverside Secondary School. When I came to AJC, I wanted to continue serving the community, which was why I decided to join the Interact Club,’ said the 19-year old.

Even though Sharanya was actively involved in the Interact Club, she was able to balance time for her studies. Having done consistently well in school, Sharanya scored distinctions for all her subjects in the recent GCE ‘A’ Level examination when she received her results which were released on 1 March this year.

‘It can become quite stressful when I have to juggle studies and my responsibilities and commitments in the club, especially when there are several ongoing projects. However, I try my best to strike a balance between the two by managing my time wisely, even when the going gets tough.’

Benefiting from Financial Assistance

Despite her family’s humble background, Sharanya had access to quality education through the years. Her father is a security guard while her mother works as a retail assistant. She has benefited from MOE’s Financial Assistance Scheme since her secondary school days.

‘I received meal coupons, subsidies and bursaries from the school, and this really helped to set my parents’ mind at ease as they did not have to worry about my school fees and expenses. I’m grateful because the financial assistance that I’ve received allowed me to focus on my studies better and played a part in shaping me into whom I am now,’ said the youngest of the family.

Pursuing her Interests

General Paper was her favourite subject in JC and now that she has received her A-level results, Sharanya intends to pursue her interest in Mass Communications. As she enjoys writing and takes an interest in current affairs, Sharanya hopes to seize every opportunity to hone her skills and gain as much exposure as possible.

‘I hope to continue with my volunteer work as it is very meaningful to bring joy to those in need as well as to return whatever I have received to society,’ said Sharanya.