From Dedication To Distinction
Graduation 2024: Valedictorian (Secondary)
Swimmer Magdalene Lee’s journey at the Sports School has been nothing short of inspiring. As the Vice-President of the 21st Student Council and now Valedictorian for her secondary cohort, her achievements reflect not only her dedication as a student-athlete but also her unwavering commitment to leadership and personal growth.
From her first year, Magdalene stood out, consistently setting high standards in her studies. She approached her academic responsibilities with a proactive mindset, always willing to lend a helping hand to her peers and teachers. Her character shone through in every interaction, marked by respect and a collaborative spirit.
Magdalene's dedication extended beyond the classroom. As a swimmer, she faced the challenges of rigorous training with remarkable discipline. Her hard work paid off at the Thailand Sports School Games, where she achieved a personal best in the 50m Fly, improving her time by over a second. She also secured a silver medal in the 50m Backstroke, helping her team clinch the Overall Girls’ Trophy. These victories were not just personal milestones; they were moments of pride that contributed to her school community.
Her journey in swimming started as a nine-year-old young girl, who turned to swimming as a recreation. That same year, she was already representing her club in age-group competitions. Realising that she had good potential in the sport, she decided to join Sports School after her primary school education.
This year, she was honoured with a ROAR Award, recognizing her embodiment of the school’s values through her exceptional leadership during the Secondary 1 Orientation Programme. She was also recognised for her compassion when she went out of her way to help a distressed junior locate her lost phone. This act of kindness reinforced her reputation as a caring leader and mentor. The grateful Secondary 1 student-athlete expressed her appreciation for Magdalene’s patience and support during a stressful time.
Embracing her role as a student leader, Magdalene reflected on her growth, stating, “Being a councillor gave me many opportunities—like attending the Youth Sports Leaders Camp in 2022, where I met students from other schools. It has not only enhanced my leadership skills but has also helped me form amazing friendships and learn valuable planning and organizational skills that will serve me well beyond school.”
During the Graduation Ceremony on 23 September 2024, Magdalene delivered a poignant speech that resonated with her peers. She concluded with empowering words: “Never forget that in our lives we alone hold the power to determine our final destinations. We must make our destinies a reality. As we leave secondary school behind, I hope we all remember the lessons we’ve learnt, cherish our memories from our time here and have the courage to never give up, because we all still have so much more hiding within us, waiting to be realised.”
Magdalene’s journey in Sports School continues as she will take up the through-train International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) next year.
Swimmer Magdalene Lee’s journey at the Sports School has been nothing short of inspiring. As the Vice-President of the 21st Student Council and now Valedictorian for her secondary cohort, her achievements reflect not only her dedication as a student-athlete but also her unwavering commitment to leadership and personal growth.
From her first year, Magdalene stood out, consistently setting high standards in her studies. She approached her academic responsibilities with a proactive mindset, always willing to lend a helping hand to her peers and teachers. Her character shone through in every interaction, marked by respect and a collaborative spirit.
Magdalene's dedication extended beyond the classroom. As a swimmer, she faced the challenges of rigorous training with remarkable discipline. Her hard work paid off at the Thailand Sports School Games, where she achieved a personal best in the 50m Fly, improving her time by over a second. She also secured a silver medal in the 50m Backstroke, helping her team clinch the Overall Girls’ Trophy. These victories were not just personal milestones; they were moments of pride that contributed to her school community.
Her journey in swimming started as a nine-year-old young girl, who turned to swimming as a recreation. That same year, she was already representing her club in age-group competitions. Realising that she had good potential in the sport, she decided to join Sports School after her primary school education.
This year, she was honoured with a ROAR Award, recognizing her embodiment of the school’s values through her exceptional leadership during the Secondary 1 Orientation Programme. She was also recognised for her compassion when she went out of her way to help a distressed junior locate her lost phone. This act of kindness reinforced her reputation as a caring leader and mentor. The grateful Secondary 1 student-athlete expressed her appreciation for Magdalene’s patience and support during a stressful time.
Embracing her role as a student leader, Magdalene reflected on her growth, stating, “Being a councillor gave me many opportunities—like attending the Youth Sports Leaders Camp in 2022, where I met students from other schools. It has not only enhanced my leadership skills but has also helped me form amazing friendships and learn valuable planning and organizational skills that will serve me well beyond school.”
During the Graduation Ceremony on 23 September 2024, Magdalene delivered a poignant speech that resonated with her peers. She concluded with empowering words: “Never forget that in our lives we alone hold the power to determine our final destinations. We must make our destinies a reality. As we leave secondary school behind, I hope we all remember the lessons we’ve learnt, cherish our memories from our time here and have the courage to never give up, because we all still have so much more hiding within us, waiting to be realised.”
Magdalene’s journey in Sports School continues as she will take up the through-train International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) next year.
