S.H. Ho College eNewsletter

The first student set foot in the board room, followed by another nine black gowns. Startled by the sublimity of the event, they looked about the setting in round-eyed wonder to figure out where to place their focus. Haven't I previewed the whole process at the briefing next room? Why am I still feeling all at sea? I see three rows of chairs, but which should I sit in?

After taking their seats, the ten of them listened attentively to MC's instruction. There came a heavy scent of new leather shoes. Creases in boys' brand-new shirts were visibly sharp; girls teetered along in their high heels. The under-20s were learning to behave like grown-ups. They hardly dare to breathe, yet their eyes were sparkling with utmost excitement.

"Please raise your right hand… and declare…" As the MC was giving orders, some put up a closed fist, some forgot their lines. It was a bit tricky to pronounce the key word "affiliation". Fortunately there were five of us, which was reassuring.

"Please come to the front. Shake hands with Master and Dean of Students and take a photo…"It was said that there were three sorts of palms: first was hot and sweaty, second was cold and sweaty, and the third was of the same temperature as the air condition. Now smile to the camera. However different the faces are, they are glowing with the same youth, beaming and buoyant. As if a grandfather looking at his adorable grandchildren, Master smiled with contentment and happiness.

Stepping out of the board room, students sighed with relief. All at once they turned from the solemn mode to their bubbly selves, exchanging what they had been thinking back inside. From now on we become members of SHHO. A new identity is defined.