What it’s like joining NUS Students’ Computing Club as a Freshman
Want to get to know more about NUS Students’ Computing Club but don’t know where to get more information? Well, this article is for you. We got two of our directors from the 24th Management Committee (MC) to share their experiences of joining Computing Club as a freshman and what drew them to join in the first place!
What is Computing Club all about?
Before we delve into what our directors experienced over their term, let us share a little bit of what Computing Club is all about.
The NUS Students’ Computing Club, colloquially referred to as the Computing Club, is a constituent club under the NUS Students’ Union (NUSSU). It comprises and represents all undergraduates pursuing a degree in NUS School of Computing.
Long story short, Computing Club serves as the bridge between the computing students and the school and at the same time organises a myriad of exciting events year-round.
Experiences of our Directors
Tricia Goh — Director of Freshman Orientation Programmes (FOP)
Hi! I’m Tricia, incoming Year 2 Computer science student, and current Director of Freshmen Orientations Programmes!
I’m sure most of you are aware of the various events planned by Computing Club as part of Freshmen Orientation Programmes, namely: FSC; FOW; EFOP; RAG & BASH!
Joining university I hadn’t planned to join any CCAs, clubs, or Halls. However, after joining SoC’s FOP as a freshman, I was introduced to the role of FOP’s director.
Before Computing Club, I never had much experience running events. However, as the FOP director, I was in charge of 5 events that would shape freshmen’s impression of our faculty. Despite being one of the few Year 1s in the computing club, I was able to experience many challenging situations throughout my term, that tested my resolve and groomed me to be a better leader. Fortunately, I was able to reach out to multiple talented seniors who were dedicated to Computing Club. From leadership advice to academic advice, they never hesitate to share their experiences.
Apart from the management committee, I work with many of my batch mates that make up the organising committee and OGLs. I am immensely grateful to be supported by such a capable organising committee. Going through hardship is the best way to form lifelong bonds. From entering university not knowing any coursemates, I’ve met friends from all 5 majors!
Workload-wise, the FOP cell gets the busiest during our summer break closer to when the incoming batch of freshies comes in. From testing games to packing logistics, summer will definitely be fun-filled for the FOP cell :) However, this doesn’t mean that your semesters are untouched too, although more chill there will still be periods where planning early is essential.
Overall, I have no regrets being part of the 24th management committee. I recommend and encourage everyone to run for Computing Club, Not only will you be part of this cohesive family, but you will be able to learn and grow as an individual.
Merrick Neo — Director of Student Relations (SR)
Hi! My name is Merrick and I’m the current Director of Student Relations.
To simply go through what the SR cell does, we help organise a wide variety of exciting events to help computing students forge new and lasting connections, promoting a vibrant student life in SoC.
For me personally, I joined Computing Club as I felt it would be a good opportunity to not only challenge myself as an individual but also enrich student life in the computing faculty.
Being able to see through the planning and execution of each event gave me a deep sense of satisfaction as I saw meaningful friendships forged and participants having a good time at our events.
One of the more memorable events I organised was COMaraderie, where we paired participants up, as they set off to conquer various challenges for attractive prizes. Seeing participants actively participating in the missions was rewarding and heartwarming, and definitely made the effort we put into the event so worth it.
To me, Computing Club was a platform for me to better myself and grow as an individual. There’ll for sure be times where you’ll be deep in planning for your various initiatives (Late night zoom calls, last-minute preparation work …). However, I feel that university is the time for one to explore the things you’re interested in, to take up opportunities to better yourself. And Year 1, for me was definitely the best time to take on this leadership opportunity considering how the academic workload in SoC only gets higher and higher as you become more senior.
Sure it was a rollercoaster of a ride, but at the end of the day, it was without a doubt a meaningful journey with everyone in the 24th Management Committee.
Want to know more? Head on over to our Instagram page to get more information regarding elections for the 25th Management Committee. See you there 👋
