This year, I, Candy Joy Chua, 16 years of age, represented Chiang Kai Shek College in the search for Outstanding Filipino-Chinese Students of the Philippines, sponsored every year by the Ceng Jing Xiang Ai Shin Foundation (曾景祥爱心基金会). Hurdling all the phases of the competition, including the essay writing and personal interview, gave me a feeling of fulfilment.

I was born in a family with loving parents and two younger brothers who guide me, nurture me, and make me happy as I grow up. I have been studying in Chiang Kai Shek College since pre-kindergarten, and since I was young, I have always had this thing for drawing and singing. I have joined singing contests and luckily won awards on some occasions for being the best singer. In addition to this, I was given the chance to sing on stage during my kindergarten graduation ceremonies. Since then, I’ve wanted to be onstage, performing for other people. When I got into grade school, I joined the CKSC youth choir. Every time there is a school activity that requires the youth choir to perform, I am always chosen to perform. Influenced by my parents, I learned and liked Chinese, its language, culture, and traditions. As I progressed to high school, my parents encouraged me to go to China to enhance my Chinese communication skills. Aside from those years of learning, I always grab the opportunity to travel to the different provinces of Mainland China to learn more about its history.

I have participated in various international competitions, such as: writing, painting, calligraphy, singing, recitation, storytelling, drama, photography, lantern and pottery making, etc.  The varied school activities I have joined in have enhanced my inter-personal skills and my travels have made me more independent, friendly, and outgoing.

From a child who loved to draw, I am determined in aiming to become a successful interior designer. As a designer, I will strive to combine both science and the arts, and enter the majestic designing industry of China to create useful, comfortable, and beautiful pieces of art. I will make a difference as a Chinese designer.

Achieving this feat is not easy, but with faith, perseverance, and action, I believe that I will reach my goals and contribute greatly to human society.

* Candy Joy Chua is the 21st CKSC winner in the annual search for Outstanding Filipino-Chinese Students of the Philippines.