When I received my acceptance email into Residential College 4, I was filled with excitement and anticipation to kickstart the new chapter of my life. I was the third RC4 resident in my family and living in RC4, which adds a layer of connection and continuity to my experience here even prior to my enrolment. I’ve heard numerous fun stories from my family members’ time here which has shaped the way I approach this new chapter in my life as there was greater familiarity and less apprehension. As I settle in and start to create my own memories, the experience of sharing this milestone with my family has added a layer of meaning to my RC4 stay. 

RC4 has always been my one and only choice, ever since my Junior College days. My cousin, Gavin Han (Pharmaceutical Sciences ‘23) was the first from my family to step foot into RC4. Gavin shared, “I heard great things from seniors, about the range of experiences available in RC4 and how nice and vibrant the culture is. As someone who wanted an RC experience, RC4 felt like a natural choice.” Likewise, the experiences I’ve heard from him played a decisive role in my decision. After spending a semester here, it feels like a place where diversity is embraced, and every individual is valued. 

In 2021, Gavin was soon joined by my brother, Sean Han (Pharmaceutical Science ‘25), as he was enticed by the friendly, welcoming atmosphere at RC4. I then followed suit in 2024, extending the Han family’s stay in RC4. Coincidentally, the room which I am currently residing in was Gavin’s room in Year 4, which allowed me to feel a stronger sense of home in RC4. 

Me (3^rd from Left) alongside my orientation groupmates after the conclusion of RC4's Inter-House Games.

Looking back at what I’ve written in my admission essay during the application period, “The idea of interest groups being beginner friendly appeals to me, as I would have the opportunity to try various sports and other activities. I trust that RC4's welcoming community will aid me in pursuing these interests I may have, without feeling lost or lonely.” I was given the chance to explore sports which I hadn’t had a chance to previously while also having the opportunity to pick up some culinary skills by attending RC4fe sessions. The warm and homely environment provides a safe space for everyone to try something new without having second thoughts. This was echoed by Sean, who believed that “the culture in RC4 is shaped by the current students, always changing and evolving to bring out the best in each student.” 

Gavin (1^st from Left) performing as part of Orcapella at RC4's Arts Night in 2023.

Gavin was part of RC4’s own Orcapella and was given the chance to perform in University Cultural Centre for Arts Night. It was his favourite memory from his 4-year stay at RC4 and the experience was something that he will carry for the rest of his life. “I loved the community and the range of experiences I could find at RC4, and there were still many things I felt like I wanted to experience and contribute to,” Gavin explained.

I am inspired by the trails they leave behind in RC4, with their outstanding contributions motivating me to contribute equally, if not as much, in the future. 

Likewise, Sean is also embarking on the last year of his 4-year experience in RC4, taking up extra responsibility as the Residential Assistant (RA) of Level 16. These were their ways of giving back to the place which had given them so much — “I felt that I had more to contribute to the community in RC4, in the small ways such as taking care of the welfare of other residents, being there for them as a peer supporter, or just being a senior to guide them in carving their own path.” I am inspired by the trails they leave behind in RC4, with their outstanding contributions motivating me to contribute equally, if not as much, in the future.

Sean has been an active member of the RC4 Dodgeball team since Year 1.

The vibrant residential life in RC4 has made my university experience flavourful — from the late-night suppers to sports IG sessions ending at 2am, debugging stereotypes which I held prior to entering RC4. As a core member of the Dodgeball team, Sean’s favourite memory from RC4 was playing dodgeball until 4 a.m. before heading for McDonalds breakfast and finishing his assignment in the lounge with his teammates prior to his 8 a.m. lesson. These are experiences that residents would unlikely relive once they graduate from RC4, making these memories worthwhile and special.   

After residing in the East throughout my life, RC4 is my first home located in the West. Within a blink of an eye, one semester has been done and dusted. There are still so much to explore and experience in this new big family of mine, and the path ahead promises countless adventures, meaningful connections, and moments that will shape not just my university life but also the lifelong friendships that will be forged along the journey.