Exactly 365 days ago, 18 people gathered at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, for flight SQ308 to London Heathrow Airport. Many of them didn't know each other, some had several friends, others had none. 2 teachers accompanied the 18 people on their journey across the Indian Ocean and over the continents of Asia and Europe. Finally, 13.5 hours later, the group was back on Terra Ferma, waiting to start an exciting adventure.
A coach ride later, the 18 people arrived at the beautiful City of Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, 50 miles away from London. The halls of Girton College welcomed them and provided shelter for the night.
Soon, these 18 people became good friends. They found a place to gather and have fun, a place they called Room 17. There, they could chat, play cards, or sleep in weird tight corners. A place so secret, no one outside the exclusive group knew where it is. A Jie Mei Bang was formed, so were several special relationships.
Then disaster struck. Several people got injured. The remainding people rallied around them and showered them with care and concern. Before long, everyone was well again, well enough to participate in the daily evening activities of soccer or basketball. Even the teachers joined in the fun.
A casino soon came by. The 18 friends pooled their chips. Several of them reached the target of 10000 pounds, but unfortunately, none were to return to Girton with the grand prize.
2 weeks flew by. The 18 friends knew they had to leave Girton soon. They gathered at the hockey field to watch the meteor shower. Each had their wishes, while college songs, national song and pop filled the air. Despite the freezing cold weather, no one ever felt too cold for comfort, for a friend nearby was sure to help, and a kind friend went off to make garlic bread. As dawn broke, the 18 friends packed their bags, and prepared to say goodbye to the people who took charge of their programme. After a last lunch at the Japanese restaurant in the town centre, the 18 friends and their teachers left for Heathrow and boarded SQ319 bound for their island country homeland.
In the year that followed, the 18 friends never parted. There were numerous outings, and even a chalet booked for them. They studied together and encourage each other. And they all got promoted. Now here they are, fighting for the best prelims and A Levels results.
As the juniors prepare to embark on their own adventure in 5 days time, and while SQ308 and SQ319 flew on to ferry passengers, all the best to the 18 people. May all your wishes come true.
This post is dedicated to all 18 friends and the 2 teachers of Reach Cambridge 2007. HAPPY BIRTHDAY REACH CAMBRIDGE 2007!