Orientation 2014: ACxios

ACxios, the Orientation 2014 theme derived from the Greek word Axios, means 'worthy' or 'honourable'. This was the big goal that the planning group for Orientation 2014 (the Orientation Ad-Hoc, also known as OTAH) had for the JC1s, and we are very thankful to see that the JC1s began this journey of growth at ACxios 2014. ACxios 2014 was truly an incredible adventure for OTAH, and it is our sincere hope that the JC1s felt that way too! OTAH is considered to be the biggest Ad-Hoc of one's Council term because of the sheer number of people that participate in Orientation! 880 JC1s - that was a daunting number for us, but OTAH was eager to make ACxios 2014 memorable and fun for the JC1s.

I first started planning for Orientation in August 2013, and the rest of OTAH joined me in September 2013. Through the 6 to 7 months of planning, we faced our fair share of setbacks, but through it all, the encouragement that was evident throughout the entire planning period gave meaning to our efforts and made our work a joy. I will never forget the hugs, notes of encouragement and jokes that made the many proposals and long meetings not only bearable, but also enjoyable. Ultimately, every member of OTAH took away important learning points and grew in our capacity to lead and serve the College. Through this entire process, OTAH was blessed to have the guidance and support of the OTAH teachers, who challenged and supported us to make ACxios 2014 a success.

However, apart from OTAH, one core group (quite literally doing the mass rallies) of people that made ACxios 2014 memorable and impactful was the OGLs. From practising the cheers and dances over and over, to choreographing and practising their clan walk-ins to perfection; From dedicating 100% of their time and energy to the J1s, to sacrificing their own fun at times to ensure that everyone was accounted for and having fun, the OGLs made Orientation a success! I am truly inspired by the integrity, tenacity and passion of the OGLs, and I think I speak for the entire OTAH when I say that the OGLs gave life to our proposed plans. Kudos to all the OGLs! May the bonds forged during ACxios remain strong for a lifetime!

When the 4 days of Orientation finally arrived, I was amazed to see our plans and efforts coming to fruition. All the documents planning out the games, dances, cheers, logistics... they finally came to life! After having put in so much hard work into the planning, it was truly fulfilling to see the execution. What was even more amazing was seeing the various members of the College coming together to make ACxios 2014 a success. The Senior Administration went through all the safety procedures that we had planned to make sure that the JC1s would be able to have a safe Orientation. The teachers dedicated their time to organising introductory lectures, with the PE department even offering to watch over the safety of the JC1s during the games. The JC2 seniors were friendly and gracious, with many even giving up their tables at the Void Deck for the JC1s! When everyone came together to welcome the JC1s with open arms, I felt a surge of the AC Spirit, for it was as if the entire College was uniting together to continue a legacy. Truly, ACxios 2014 has proven that when ACJC unites together with a common purpose, The Best is Yet to Be!

Head of OTAH