Wong Yuk-wah of Sha Tin Government Secondary School breathed a sigh of relief, grinned and said: 'I'm glad it's all over. Now I can really take a break and relax . . . maybe play some computer games!' Computer games were what made the nine As scorer let off steam while studying for the HKCEE. However, when his family first bought a computer Yuk-wah switched his concentration from school and studies to computer games, resulting in a drop of grades. A drop from being third in his class to below 30 convinced him that he should start working harder. Now he has been rewarded. Even with no pressure from his parents, no tutoring and only occasional help from his teachers, he managed to stay on track. Yuk-wah, who scored A(1)s in English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Computer Studies, A(2)s in Additional Mathematics, Economics and Music, and B(4) in Chinese Language, said he was glad that the Examinations Authority gave him a grade B in Chinese Language. 'To be honest, I had expected something a lot worse. My Chinese has never been good and I've always had to work hard. I guess I'm not artistic enough.' The science student has always been interested in Mathematics and Computer Programming, but also finds the natural sciences captivating. Although he claims he is not very artistic, Yuk-wah has passed Grade 8 in both piano and music theory with flying colours. He says the piano training definitely helped him in preparing for the HKCEE. One must have an immense interest to take music as an examination subject, for the two-year Centralised Scheme of Music Training, organised by the Education Department, requires proficiency of Grade 5 or above in theory or an instrument to qualify. 'Playing the piano helps me relax. I can forget about work and school for a while,' Yuk-wah said. Playing the piano is not his only extra-curricular interest. He is the activity convener of his school's Student Council and a committee member of the Computer and Music Clubs. He also likes to play badminton. He feels that these interests are important in achieving academic success. Yuk-wah also thinks that one should not panic and should get plenty of rest the night before an exam. He hopes to continue his post-secondary studies in the United States if he can get a scholarship. Yuk-wah said he does not want to put any financial strain on his parents. 'I would like to study overseas, but Hong Kong universities can give me equally good opportunities in computer programming or analysis.' Yuk-wah wants to work in Hong Kong because he has confidence in the territory. Bonita is a Young Post summer intern
