What Is Career Success?

As we return to school this week after the CNY holiday, let’s renew our commitment to our studies. I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on any insights you gained during the Parents’ Day. I trust that the teacher you and your parents met provided you with suggestions on areas for improvement. Have you set appropriate goals for this term accordingly, both for your academic performance and your behaviour? Remember, education is not just about gaining knowledge; it equips you with the skills and opportunities to become a better person and, thus, make a difference in the world.

The theme of this month is “Option for the Poor.” Let’s also think about how we can make a positive impact on the lives of those less fortunate than ourselves. Last month, I shared with you the importance of being good at listening to others so that we can understand them better and, hence, use our skills and gifts to help and serve them successfully in our careers.

Being successful in your future career may seem too far away, but what can you do at this stage? Here are two suggestions:

Firstly, by focusing on your academic pursuits, you are laying the foundation for a future where you can choose a career that not only fulfils you but also allows you to serve others—especially those in need. Think about the professions that help the poor: social workers, teachers, healthcare providers, and countless others. These roles require dedication and a strong educational background. By committing to your studies now, you are crafting a path to a future where you can live out your values and be an agent of change.

Secondly, you can build good habits to help those in need in your daily life. Just like what Ms. Lai shared with us yesterday, remember the quote from Mother Teresa: “Do small things with great love.” You might try to offer a hand to your classmates who are struggling with their studies, volunteer in social services, offer your seat to the elderly when taking public transportation, or even donate money to the Lenten Box. All these acts may seem small, but they can definitely help others and positively impact their lives.

With the guidance of God, I hope everyone can have the strength to work diligently and the wisdom to remember our duty to care for others in our society. May we always strive to uplift those around us, using our talents and knowledge to help them. Let us commit ourselves today to our studies, keeping in mind the impact we can have on the lives of others.

Ms Wong SM