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SCMP Reporter

Other options
The HKCEE results brought joy and Form Six places for some students, but many are unable to continue their studies.
But A-levels are not the only option.  Students can attend the VTC instead.
A-levels are very tough exams with broad syllabuses - even students who do very well in the HKCEE can struggle in Form Six and Form Seven.
I think the new 3+3+4 arrangement will make life less stressful for students  and make it  easier for them to achieve better results.
Lam Ka-wai, SKH Li Fook Hing Secondary School
Do more for elderly
Despite all the government adverts about caring for the elderly, Hong Kong people don't do much to look after them.
Older people may find it difficult to participate in mainstream activities because they struggle to go very far, or they may not have much money.
They may feel unloved and unwanted if their families do not care for them. It's not uncommon for elderly people to commit suicide rather than live a lonely life.
The government should not only show adverts encouraging us to take care of the elderly. It should enable practical solutions so that older people know they are not alone.
Duck Chiu, Pooi To Middle School
Mobile phones don't show you care
Before the mobile phone became popular, people would visit friends who lived in the same town. If they had friends and relatives overseas, they would write them a letter. These actions reminded people you cared.
But now that everyone in developed countries has a mobile phone, people make a quick call, or even just send a text message.
Most phones come programmed with common messages such as 'See you later' or 'Take care' so that you don't have to think about what to write.
Mobile phones are useful, especially in emergencies. But they can't replace actual physical contact, or taking the time to write a letter.
Instead of sending a generic text message, pick up the phone and make a call, arrange to meet your friends, or sit down and write to people you care about.
Amy Tsoi, Leung Shek Chee College
The easy way out  is not the answer
No matter how old you are,   everyone faces  challenges and difficulties in  life.
You often read news stories about teenagers committing suicide because of stress. But while everyone handles problems in their own way, suicide is not a solution.
When faced with difficulties, we should see them as a challenge and overcome them. We can ask our family and friends for advice and help.
Whether or not we succeed, we will learn from the experience. The lessons will help us with other problems and issues in life.
It is far braver to face a challenge and overcome it than considering suicide or hurting ourselves. Those are not solutions, and they hurt other people.
Stand up to life's challenges and face them head on. Then you can feel proud of yourself, no matter what the outcome.
Candy Chong, Pooi To Middle School
English needs
People  say the standard of English is declining in Hong Kong. But many students ask why English is so important, and why we need to learn it.
English is very important. To get into university, we must pass the A-level Use of English exam, because most classes are taught in English.
If we want to study abroad, we have to prove our ability to speak the language of that country - and the most popular destinations are English-speaking countries.
If you want a good job, it's likely you will need to speak English in the office or with overseas contacts. The ability to speak good English will probably ensure you success in your job.
It's important to remember English is still the most widely-spoken international language.
Don't miss out on opportunities. Work hard in your English lessons, and you will benefit throughout life.
Yuen Man-yee
Fulfilling dreams takes planning
When I was eight,  I decided I wanted to be a businessman because I liked talking with all sorts of people. I also thought it would be a good way to earn a comfortable living.
But to make a dream come true takes careful planning.
First of all, I needed to decide what subjects to take early in school life.
I realised I needed commercial knowledge, so I chose accounting, commerce and economics. I worked really hard and got good HKCEE results.
I wanted to expand my business knowledge, so I got a job  in sales during the summer holidays after Form Five. I learned important sales skills and made friends and potential business contacts.
When I start university,  I will go for a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).
BBA courses include  forums and presentations by business leaders,  internships,   computer simulations of business transactions, and oral, written and electronic communication techniques.
I  want to acquire professional skills and knowledge.
After I graduate, I will be equipped to go into business. I will be able to support my family and hopefully give some money to charity.
I believe my hard work will pay off when I realise my dream.
I hope everyone has the perseverance to make their dreams come true.
May So Wai-kwan, VTC Yeo Chei Man Senior Secondary School



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