Op-Eds

Smiskis, Sonnys and The Art of Overconsumption

Reading Time: < 1 minute

By Aniqa Norhazry (25S03D)

The joy and exuberance we get from unboxing blind boxes is truly unmatched. That, coupled with the irresistibly cute designs available, have fueled the blind box industry for decades. Yet, blind boxes are popular now more than ever and while it all seems like harmless fun, it often leads to a bigger problem—overconsumption. Amongst other issues, this could lead to a hole in your pocket, and even in the environment. But how harsh are these negative impacts? And despite knowing them, why can’t we stop ourselves from buying blind boxes?

Find out in our video, where we discuss blind boxes, overconsumption and the repercussions of our endless buying. 

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Arts Students Today, Starving Artists Tomorrow: On Choosing the Arts Stream

Reading Time: 5 minutes

By Cayla Goh (25A01B) and Chen Ying (25A01C)

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that one considering the “Arts stream”, must be in want of “impracticality” and “poor career prospects”. 

Alright, perhaps that may be an exaggeration, but such ideas are definitely a reality faced by most Arts students. Whenever we mention our subject combination, our friends, family, or perhaps that-annoying-Auntie-during-Chinese-New-Year will cheekily ask, “Really ah? You not scared you later unemployed meh?”

Of course, such questions are usually intended as a joke, but one cannot help but wonder if there is even the slightest sliver of truth behind them. After all, the humanities have long been reputed to offer little job opportunities in Singapore, and they are generally considered less prestigious than the Science stream (especially by #kiasu Singaporean parents). 

That brings us to the question: is choosing Arts stream really a one-way ticket to unemployment? 

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Decoding the Digital World: A Beginner’s Guide to Programming

Reading Time: 5 minutes

By Tay Yu Ning (25S07A) and Isaac Tay (25S06L)

In an era where technology shapes nearly every aspect of our lives, coding has become more than just a technical skill—it’s a gateway to endless possibilities. Yet, for many beginners, the world of programming can seem as cryptic as ancient hieroglyphics. Whether you’re eyeing computer science as a potential major or simply want to automate your daily tasks, understanding where to begin can make the difference between frustration and success.

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Sarcasm as a Love Language: Exploring Modern-Day Friendships 

Reading Time: 5 minutes

By M.B. Dharshni (25S03O)

There’s a unique understanding in the way you and your best friend can casually tell each other to “shut up” or “get a life” (or something less elegant that’s better left unsaid) while both knowing it’s all in good fun.

And maybe it lies in the fact that your friend isn’t afraid to hit you with some cold, hard truths – like how that new haircut really looks – because your bond is strong enough to weather such playful provocations.

After all, we could all use a little humbling now and then. And there’s no one who delivers it quite as mercilessly, candidly, and lovingly as a true friend.

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