I've sort of introduced the Fellows before, but I've never really talked about them. Not directly at least. If you want to know who they are, check out their profiles on Tembusu's website. Or better still, go talk to them.
It's one thing here in Tembusu I feel we don't do enough of... interacting with our Fellows. It's a shame really, because it's one of the cool things about being in a college. The Fellows are interesting people, and nice to chat with. And it's good to know them, and for them to know you too! They can provide guidance and advice, especially with academic stuff. When they know you and your interests, they'll also direct relevant opportunities your way. And, at least from what I know, most Fellows enjoy hearing student perspectives on issues too. (Okay mind you nobody is paying me to write all these nice things! I mean it.)
More importantly, this kind of interaction is important for developing Tembusu as a living-learning community. As far as UTRP goes, it can only house the Fellows as close to our residential and classroom spaces as possible. But how much we interact is really up to both parties, is it not?
Somehow I feel that this opportunity is not being maximized. Sure there are lessons with them, Work-in-progress seminars (WIPS), and the few students who are comfortable enough to hang out with some Fellows or fortunate enough to be their Research Assistants... but it seems that only a small group is really enjoying the benefits of these arrangements. Both student and Fellow alike.
How do we engage the students and Fellows on the margin of these opportunities to interact? I'll just throw some ideas in the air first...
What Fellows can do
The most obvious way is to come down to the dining hall at meal times. Remember that Singaporeans bond over food. It's not hard to meet new people in Tembusu's dining hall either. Just ask to sit with someone... anyone. Better yet if one of them is already a student in your class. If you really can't stand the dining hall food, organise a dinner with your class at Sapore's, or some place nearby. I think most of us appreciate any excuse not to eat at the dining hall. Don't ask us out for a coffee though, unless the ice has already been broken. It'll be easier to bring cake to class.
Another way is to organise/ take part in House events. Dr Graham is known for his reading sessions (note: with wine and cheese), and Prof Tay, his suppers. Dr Lina had a book-sharing thing going on for a while too. Residential Fellows (RF) have the advantage (or obligation?) here. The students in your House are your neighbours, get to know them. Get your House Committee to help with the organising. Make sure there's nice food. As for non-Residential Fellows, you may invite yourselves.
Be friendly. I know it takes two hands to clap, but most local students would be hesitant to make the first move. Just start with a smile. Say hello. It'll grow from there.
What students can do
Basically the flip-side of everything the Fellows can do. Include the Fellows in your events. Get them involved in Orientation as game masters, or even part of the orientation groups. If you're in the orgainising committee, ask yourself how the Fellows can contribute. Most times they'll be willing to help if you let them know how. Try to make sure they aren't just giving talks and briefs. If you ever see them in the dining hall, ask to sit with them. Even if they already are sitting with other Fellows or students. Invite them to your House activities and suppers. Be organised and give them enough notice.
Attend as many Teas and WIPS as you can, and stay back to mingle. Most Fellows who attend would linger and discuss stuff. Just hang around them. You don't have to contribute. You could just ask questions and let them do the talking. Or simply listen to an ongoing conversation. At some point you'll get to introduce yourselves to each other. Volunteer your help to set up/ clean up at these events/ activities.
Be friendly. This isn't Junior College anymore, and classroom structures aren't so hierarchical. Particularly in seminar classes. Don't forget the Fellows are people too, and are not the least bit intimidating just because they have PhDs. Just start with a smile. Say hello. It'll grow from there.
That's pretty much it. Most of it is pretty duh, but just not being applied. So please, talk to everyone, everyone.
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