Meeting of minds OCBC scholar Jovian Tan Xuan An says his scholarship is more than just a sponsorship for education By Susan Leong FOR first-year undergraduate Jovian Tan Xuan An, entering law school is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. “I have a rather romanticised view of the law, shaped in part by John Grisham’s ‘small man beats big firm’ stories,” he says. “But I do want to make a difference in people’s lives, and I think this is the way for me to do it.” Equally strong is his conviction that a scholarship should be more than a sponsorship for education. After his A levels, the former Raffles Junior College (RJC) student started looking for a scholarship that would support his choice of study, did not come with a mandatory bond and was conferred by an organisation that shared his values. He found the right fit in the OCBC Local Undergraduate Scholarship. He elaborates: “I appreciate OCBC’s commitment to education, which is very much a legacy of late founder and philanthropist Lee Kong Chian. “The fact that the scholarship is bond free shows the bank’s belief in people: It is willing to trust the scholars to make their own career decisions, whether to join the bank or serve in other capacities. “I am from a traditional Chinese family that has inculcated in me important values like yin shui si yuan (appreciate the source). “Even with my condition, OCBC is willing to invest in me by giving me the scholarship. This makes me more determined to succeed,” says Mr Tan, who suffers from right hemiparetic cerebral palsy due to a premature birth. The condition affects some of the motor functions of his right limbs, but in no way has it hindered his pursuit of excellence in academic work or co-curricular activities. He adds: “I would definitely offer the bank my services — if it would have me — but not immediately after graduation. I want to practise a few years to gain some experience first.” The 19-year-old says: “I love books and languages, and was a librarian in school. That was great as I had access to all the latest titles. “When I was in RJC, I was the secretary of French Connection, a club that promotes French culture and language. We would screen French movies, organise pétanque contests, celebrate Bastille Day and teach elementary French to our members.” He studied French up to the AO level and is able to hold a conversation, read and write in the language. He was also a member of the Raffles Economics and Current Affairs Society. He says he is enjoying the rigours of his academic studies so far. “Last semester, I spent two weeks on an assignment, researching and writing case summaries. I was at the library till 10 every night, but that really brought home the point that law is a dynamic discipline. “I think it also prepares us for the profession — I hear that the first few years of practice are always the most challenging, with the most drop-outs!” His advice to those considering a scholarship: Make sure that the terms and conditions are in line with what you want in life. “Ask yourself, do you get to read the course you are keen on? Would it lead to a career that would sustain and interest you? Is the or ganisation a place that you would enjoy working at?”