Since Primary 3, I was intrigued by the magic behind robots and computer programs, enabling the automation of a dull repertoire of tasks or the ability to do the previously unthinkable. Now, what used to be magic is magically simple—programming through critical thinking. As I grew older, my innate drive to solve real-world problems through technology motivated me to expand further into areas such as robotics with Arduino and Raspberry Pi, competitive programming with Python and C++, and web development in JavaScript React.js and app development with Swift and React Native. In my Co-curricular Activity (CCA), Robotics Club, I always strive to find novel ways to better myself and do well in competitions by staying resilient and learning from setbacks. In RoboCup 2021, despite my team's line tracing algorithm not being most optimal due to little time for testing and programming, we returned to school whenever possible and innovated creative solutions, eventually pulling through with 2nd Place. My motivation and enthusiasm to keep up with new trends in technology also allow me to excel in the fast-paced information technology (ICT) field. In my ICT Talent Development Programme, SST Inc, I strive to pick up new skills through projects that solve real-world problems in the community, such as developing a React.js web application to more efficiently take attendance for club members.

In robotics and competitive programming competitions, many inevitable hurdles are bound to manifest. However, this does not deter me, for my resourcefulness and natural curiosity to learn more allows me to persevere in solving challenges by picking up new skills. For example, I would use online learning resources like Udemy or ask my experienced seniors to expand my knowledge. In the NRC 2021 Future Engineers Category, I learned to utilise OpenCV and TensorFlow to program the robot to detect objects and react accordingly using Computer Vision (CV) through machine learning. With the new abilities equipped, critical and creative thinking allows me to develop innovative strategies and ideas to tackle problems. For instance, using Python skills I picked up online, my team and I created a prototype of a tour glasses that won 1st Runner-up at the Splash Awards 2021 and Champions at my school's annual ChangeMakers InnoFest Challenge 2020. Despite facing many impediments through the engineering process, such as each of us specialising in a different area and not all of us being technically equipped, I had to communicate my ideas with others effectively to overcome struggles efficiently. Ultimately, we adapted well to our situation and stayed determined, proving the effort worthwhile.

As a leader in both my Robotics CCA and SST Inc TDP, I strive to do my best to serve my community. For instance, I used my skills to improve attendance-taking in SST Inc and developed a website to publicise my CCA. In both clubs, I also started and managed a Notion page for the ExCo and respective committees to keep track of the timeline, students, meeting minutes, publicity or internal projects. As President of SST Inc, I led the ExCo in organising bonding activities such as INCamp, a one-day experience for members of the club to bond through various activities, and training lessons for juniors to learn from seniors.