My heart goes out to the victim of the Helix House incident. It truly breaks my heart to hear about this. I know it’s midterms season, and everyone is feeling the pressure. Our grades can seem like everything right now, and when we don’t achieve the results we hope for, it can feel like our world is falling apart. It impacts our self-esteem, and sometimes, we might feel worthless.
I’ve been there too. I used to measure my worth by my grades. But I want to remind you that while grades are important, they are not everything in life. I understand how we can get "kiasu" or overly competitive because that mindset is deeply ingrained in our culture. And I know that just reading this message might not stop the stress — I felt the same way when a senior once told me that grades aren’t everything.
But I genuinely want you to take a moment to breathe. Take breaks when you need to, go for a walk, and remember to take care of your body. It’s been with you through your darkest times, and it deserves care. While exams are important, so is your health — don’t neglect it.
If something is weighing on you, reach out to a friend, exercise, or do something you enjoy, like cooking. You are worthy, and you deserve to take care of yourself❤️