22nd SMUX Management Committee

Candidates
Cheong Sin Yee

Cheong Sin Yee

Crystal Khoo

Crystal Khoo

Nadiya Jayasaputra

Nadiya Jayasaputra

Nicole Wee

Nicole Wee

Ng Cai Jun

Ng Cai Jun

Prithviraj Mukhopadhyay

Prithviraj Mukhopadhyay

Sin Yee

Sin Yee

Nicole

Nicole

Nadiya

Nadiya

Crystal

Crystal

Cai Jun

Cai Jun

Prithviraj

Prithviraj

Why do you want to run for SMUX MC?

I want to run for MC mainly because my SMUX experience has been very fulfilling so far and I do want be a part in carrying on the culture! I also feel like it’s the best place I can contribute my ideas and skills to, based on the experience I’ve had within SMUX. Additionally, it’s a good place for me to learn more management skills and to strengthen my basics on project management.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

My ability to see things from different points of view. This is further strengthened by the experience I have had with a few different positions within SMUX itself: Logistics IC, Programs Director, Participant, IC of team collaboration events, as well as helping out with some other departments within kayaking exco. These do help me to get a sense of how different departments and teams work together, and I am able to see different perspectives from the different roles, which I feel is a crucial factor in decision making as an MC member, and what would make me a valuable member.

Describe an impactful event in your life and what you learnt from it.

Planning Euphorux 2022 as the programs director left quite an impact on me. It was the first time I planned for such a big pool of similarly aged people, and worked with such a big group of people within the OC. I learnt a lot of stuff, but mainly 3 things. Firstly, communication is key. Especially within a big group of planners, effective communication is the only way to ensure everyone is kept in loop and things do not get confusing. Secondly, plan early. Planning early does help to minimise any avoidable last minute changes. Lastly, hiccups are bound to happen. It is human nature to not be perfect and rarely does any event happen without mistakes. It is important to not dwell but move to correct them.

Sinyee is conscientious with her work and always takes initiative to suggest interesting ideas to do or would attract more people to come for kayaking events. Furthermore, her enthusiasm and pleasant personality when engaging with participants during the events allows the participants to be comfortable and able to enjoy the event better. Another quality I find that stands out is her calm headedness when tackling a problem. For example, when we realised the organisation we worked with tends to reply slowly, she adapted and thought of a solution which was to confirm events much earlier in advance in groups and have more constant follow ups closer to the event date, which has definitely helped the team be able to confirm events earlier, facilitating a smoother execution of our events. Her adaptability and quick thinking would be a useful skill she can bring to the table as an MC member.

Asha Balamurali – Colleague

Sin Yee is a compassionate leader who works hard for her team. She often put others before her and decides for the general good.

Her being a Kayak EXCO for the past year have also allowed her to flourished to a better leader day by day. I have seen her from day 1 till today, and I am proud to say that she is my friend because of her amazing people management qualities. Adding on, her contribution to SMUX during Euphorux was also exemplary. She never failed to put in effort into her programs director role, even when she was down with COVID-19. I am sure she would be able to bring about much positive changes at SMUX with her always out of the box ideas. Her creativity is also something I really admire about as she discusses with me ideas she have from time to time.

Chin Qi Wen Christie – Colleague

Why do you want to run for SMUX MC?

I want to run for SMUX MC because of the challenge it offers! I look forward to gain more experience. The friends that will come along is a big plus as well!

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I believe that my optimistic and influential personality will be able to encourage myself and others through the difficult times we will go through together. I am also very open to tough battles and am good at positively influencing those around me. This means that, in times of hardship, my team will be to overcome them with little stress.

Describe an impactful event in your life and what you learnt from it.

An impactful event in my life was when I joined the National Day Parade Youth Planning Committee(YPC). Being part of the YPC, I could befriend people from all walks of life and it was from there I learnt that everyone is really different from one another, despite some coming from really similar background. Learning more about the myriad of people I encountered, I empathised with some of them, respected some of them, and more importantly, learnt from all of them. Overall, I learnt that, wherever I go to, there will be plenty for me to learn that I have never knew could be learnt. So, i’ll always complete task with an open mind!

Anyone who knows Crystal well can tell you she strives to be the best at everything she does. Examples include her involvement as the President of SMU Fencing and external CSP that requires her to tutor underprivileged students. Holding such a high commitment role, yet being able to juggle her schoolwork and CSP commitments is something I find very admirable. Her capability and great time management allows her to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. This would be invaluable to the MC considering the amount of work that the MC has to tend to.

Despite not holding any exco positions for SMUX currently, she has proven herself to be invested in SMUX-related activities; she signed up as a facilitator for Euphorux, often take part in SMUX activities and actively promote them to her friends. With someone who is so passionate about SMUX, I strongly believe Crystal will bring SMUX to new heights.

Ling Hyu Ann – Euphorux 2021 Camp Facilitator

Crystal is a promising leader who is determined to perform well.

She enjoys & frequents the SMUX events offered. Passionate her often encourages her classmates to go for KOPs together too. To share her passion, Crystal also took up the facilitator role for Euphorux 2022. She worked well with her partner to facilitate the group and shared with them how SMUX is like.

She put in commendable efforts to improve and her club’s achievements reflect her hardworking attitude. Crystal understands the importance of teamwork and can draw positive responses and commitment from her members. She built excellent rapport with her teammates and got them to participate in various competitions and bonding activities. Additionally, she rallied the club together to organize one of SMU’s biggest event, Asia-Fencing-Varsity-Championships. Her good-natured spirit also drew much support from her peers, and she often show appreciation for peers to encourage and motivate them.

Oliver Tan – SMUX Senior / Fencing CCA Mate

Why do you want to run for SMUX MC?

My experience with SMUX began when I joined the 17th Biking Exco. It was an experience I never regretted, for it offered me so much opportunity for growth. I believe that running for the SMUX MC is to take one step forward, to further challenge myself to grow as a person (both professionally and personally) through taking on these leadership roles. SMUX is also a community that I found comfort in during my first year in this university. If anything, it is the warm and welcoming environment I wish to preserve and advocate. With these intentions in mind, I decided to challenge myself to run for SMUX MC.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

As someone who grew up in an entirely different society, and has lived in two countries apart from Singapore, I have learnt to become a more adaptable person who is open to different ideas and opinions. I think that my flexibility will support me when working alongside my fellow mc members and various stakeholders. Being adaptable will also aid me in accepting various changing circumstances, something that naturally happens (whether we like it or not) during larger-scale events.

Describe an impactful event in your life and what you learnt from it.

One of the most impactful events of my life would be the time I transitioned from studying in Vancouver to Singapore. I was initially studying my undergrad there, however, due to the Covid pandemic and other personal reasons, I was asked by my parents to transfer to Singapore and continue my studies here instead. Moving was difficult – not only from an administrative or academics point of view, but also in a more personal scale. I had to let go of the people I was comfortable with and an environment I was already used to. Curiosity, questions and judgement naturally followed me as I transitioned into my new university at Singapore as well. I had to restart and readapt to a whole new school, culture and society here. Yet I knew that there was only one way forward. To take each day at a time and just gradually go through this transition period. I had to become like a “sponge” and be open to learning new things quickly yet remember all the old that I had with me up till today. Therefore, it is one experience I will always cherish.

Nadiya is a competent 17th biking EXCO member. As Marketing IC, she submits her deliverables timely, without compromising on quality. Nadiya often offers to help alleviate the burden of her EXCO, even for work outside her jurisdiction. She is an integral team player and a joy to work with.
She is also a go-getter. While initially unfamiliar with social-media management and design, she took the challenge of being a Marketing IC head on and saw it as a chance to grow. Taking the initiative to seek guidance from seniors and peers, and through hours of practice with design tools, she is now adept and confident in her role.
Nadiya’s friendly disposition creates an inclusive environment. With a smile and listening ear always at hand, participants and EXCO alike gravitate towards her. In the same way she grew and contributed to SMUX Biking, Nadiya will be a great addition to MC!

Faith Chan – Colleague/Friend (17th SMUX Biking Exco Admin IC)

If there is one thing I know for sure about my sister, Nadiya, it’s that, while she may be a little and gullible sometimes, she is anything but lazy and indolent when it comes to her social relationships, academics and participation, in everything in life. For the past nineteen years, I have seen nothing like her determination and unflagging efforts that she puts in the work she does. I find it immensely admirable and mind-boggling to see how hardworking she can be when she sets her mind into achieving something. Even if life gets busy and overwhelming, Nadiya never fails to show up, not only for herself, or her great deal of assignments but also to her friends and family. Without second guessing, she is always ready to help, and I am confident to say that anyone who crosses paths with her, will always be in good hands.

Felicia Jayasaputra – Sister

Why do you want to run for SMUX MC?

I want to run for SMUX MC as I really love the culture and have a passion for all the different teams under SMUX. Ever since I joined SMU and attended the various SMUX activities, I have felt a strong belonging to the CBD, this is due to the precious memories I have made as well as the friendships forged. I have realised that SMUX is really a family where no one is left out, and the values it promotes is something which I would love to be part of.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

One thing that sets me apart from other candidates is the fact that I was an associate part of the management committee, thus this gives me slightly more experience when working under MC. With my experience, I aim to not only improve on myself but to help MC achieve greater heights. Furthermore, I also helped in the planning of Euphorux Camp, this has also given me the extra experience to work in SMUX.

Describe an impactful event in your life and what you learnt from it.

An impactful event was one that happened in Langkawi, while I was there I experienced many hiccups such as a missed plane flight as wells as many miscommunications with the locals, causing my friends and I to get lost. However, despite the trouble we went through, I learn to persevere and adapt to my surroundings. Hence, I was able to reach back home safely and still have fun.

Nicole is very bubbly and enthusiastic! She is very easygoing and is able to adapt herself to many different social situations and get along with people of different personalities. She is very funny and would never fail to make me laugh. She also has the ability to make anyone at ease and soothe any social tensions. In any disagreements she is always willing to hear the other side of the story. She is also always open to new experiences and has a can-do attitude, which I have seen in her academics as well, where she has shown perseverence even in more challenging modules. In a nutshell, due to her easygoing-ness, openmindedness and persevering attitude, she would certainly be an asset to the Management Committee.

Yvette – Friend

Having been the logistics associate, Nicole pushes herself out of her comfort zone to represent SMUX in the Assets Endorsement Meeting and is able to stay firm in getting assets needed for SMUX.
She is also a responsible individual who is unafraid to seek clarifications on logistics matter in ensuring that correct information is relayed to the teams.

Going beyond her own job scope, Nicole is a supportive management committee member who is willing to help out in any way she can. In the past 8 months, she has also displayed her commitment to her role. With that, I believe that she will be able to impact the SMUX Committe while being part of the SMUX MC.

Lemaine – Vice President 21st SMUX MC

Why do you want to run for SMUX MC?

I want to run for MC because I am inspired by the culture of SMUX. Throughout my time in XSeed, I am drawn towards the inclusive and wholesome culture of SMUX. When I interacted with the current MC during Euphorux 2022, I am inspired by their dedication to the community, and I saw the impact they made on the CBD. I too, want to be a part of this change, and I don’t think I’ll have another opportunity to contribute to a committee with values aligned with mine.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I have a strong work ethic, I am an effective communicator, and I am receptive to the results of my actions. The primary component of my work ethic comes from my attitude when it comes to work. I am serious and locked in when I am assigned a task. I manage my time and energy well, and I get my work done as soon as I am assigned. An effective communicator is someone who keeps the team in the loop about what is happening. I make the effort to keep my team updated on information and events. I also have a habit of replying people fast over text to ensure fast and smooth flow of information. Lastly, I am receptive to the mistakes I make. Every time something goes wrong, I reflect and look forward to the next opportunity to get things right.

Describe an impactful event in your life and what you learnt from it.

An impactful event in my life came from a shift when I was working in a GP clinic. Singapore was at the height of the Covid pandemic and GPs were all overworked daily. I remember this one particular shift where we were clearly short-staffed. It was a pretty unlucky day as well as we had many positive tests for Covid and all sorts of urgent medical conditions that we had to attend to. It was difficult to handle the crowd and abide by covid-19 protocols at the same time. Nonetheless my colleague and I did our best and split the work. We did not perform our task excellently, but it was sufficient to kept things going. A big lesson that I learnt from that day was that: regardless of how chaotic the situation is, we should keep trying out best. The tough times will eventually end.

Being the SMUX HFS and having worked together with Cai Jun for 8 months, I’m proud to say that he is a confident individual that works well with others. He listens to others attentively during finance meetings and has never been afraid to voice out his thoughts for the betterment of SMUX finance processes.

He is committed to everything he does, from planning large scale signature events in XSeed to daily finance administrative paperwork. He never fails to pay attention to details even though it is challenging. Cai Jun also goes the extra mile to try out other SMUX teams’ activities with an open mind and heart. It is my pleasure to have worked with Cai Jun and I am confident to say that with his qualities and capabilities, he will be able to make a difference to SMUX by being part of the Management Committee.

Tan Yong Hua, Honorary Finance Secretary, 21st Management Committee

I am Lisa, one of Caijun’s groupmate/classmate for the first 2 semesters in school. During our projects, Caijun would take the initiative to start discussions. He is also extremely meticulous and always ensures that our group has sufficiently met all requirements. Additionally, Caijun knows when he needs help and communicates this clearly. Work was delegated fairly and he ensured that everybody did their fair share by reminding us of our deliverables. When our progress is slow or when things fall short of our expectations, Caijun would always model the way to motivate us. He approaches his problems with a creative and analytical mind. Coupled with his pro-activeness, our group could always count on him to deliver fresh insights. I would highly recommend him for this position given his leadership qualities as listed above.

Lisa – Close friend

Why do you want to run for SMUX MC?

Joining the SMUX family in 2021 and it has been my greatest decision in SMU. It provided me with some of my most memorable experiences, tough moments and most importantly, friends that I deeply cherish. Being part of the SMUX Biking EXCO has allowed me to play a part in growing the SMUX presence in our community. I am proud to have witnessed the revitalisation of the team and its activities ever since the pandemic relaxed. With this fully in the rear view, I believe it is time to take myself one step further: to be part of the SMUX Management Committee and make SMUX grow even further. My fulfilling moments in SMUX that have shaped me into becoming a better individual and the deeper goal of wanting to create equally – if not more memorable experiences for SMUXies – motivates me to join the SMUX Management Committee.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

My people-oriented nature and my experience in SMUX are my defining abilities. As I value human interactions, I am an empathetic individual who looks out for others and ensures their well-being. I am able to connect with people easily by creating a conducive environment for them to open up, which is reflected by my close-knit biking team. Secondly, my current role as SMUX Biking Team President and the experience of serving on the 2nd SMUX Council for the past year have allowed me to understand how the council works to drive teams to provide a memorable experience for SMUXies. As Team President, I have put what I truly value: Empathy into action, always understanding my team and MC’s needs before making decisions and that is my leadership style. Overall, my experiences and strengths as a people-oriented leader are what I can bring to the Management Committee.

Describe an impactful event in your life and what you learnt from it.

The most impactful event till date has been my huge weight loss journey. After JC, I weighed 120kg and I was admitted into a 19-week BMT in NS. It was an emotionally and physically difficult period where I had to battle with constant self-doubts – thinking if I will ever get through it. Thankfully, I had a clear goal in mind and pushed myself to persevere, eventually hitting the 70kg mark. It was the turning point in my life and I have never looked back since. I have learnt that I am someone who is driven and once I commit myself to a goal, I will never give up despite the numerous obstacles. In fact, I should never underestimate myself and my abilities and should strive to always push myself further. That is the beauty of a challenge and I am ready to take on the next one.

I’ve known Raj for a year and we met for the first time during SMUX Biking Election briefing. My first impression of Raj was that he is highly sociable and charismatic – someone who can easily connect with people and make them feel comfortable. I see this as an important trait in a leader of any team/organisation as many of the issues that could affect a team relates back to managing interpersonal relationships, managing conflicts between groups of people, liaising with different stakeholders and so on. During his term as our SMUX Biking President, Raj has demonstrated that he is a capable leader – as he managed to lead our team effectively and helped create a more tightly knitted biking community. He is someone that you can depend upon no matter the circumstances, where he uses a combination of creative problem-solving skills and his knack for connecting with people to resolve any and every problem.

Darren Wong – 17th SMUX Biking Finance IC, Friend

I worked with Raj during Euphorux 2022 liaising on participants’ Basic Biking Proficiency Tests and updates on participants in his capacity of Bike Team President and Facilitator. Through my interactions with Raj, he has shown to be responsible and detailed – following up on BBPT promptly and having a keen eye for safety by flagging out less experienced riders to take note of. He places emphasis on building relationships and interests of the people around him, fostering a safe environment for others to work and try activities with SMUX. Beyond work, I have had the privilege to know Raj as a friend. He looks out for the well-being of his peers, checking in and reminding them to take breaks. Having experienced his dedication and heart for people and things he commits to, I believe he has the people’s best interest as his core to build a closer and stronger SMUX community.

Sarah Phang Jia Hui – HR/Admin Director Euphorux 2022, Friend