FAQ     

1. How to write an impressive portfolio?

Our advice is not to aim for an impressive portfolio, but for an authentic portfolio. Be yourself and show who you really are.

2. My English is not good. What is your advice so that I am not disadvantaged?

This portfolio is not about writing impeccable or poetic English but about communicating authentic experience. There are many ways of communication, the most effective of which is visual. You can attach photos to support your description or provide references who can verify your experience/achievement.

3. How to write a good objective?

Firstly, you must already have a concrete idea in your mind, although you may not have formulated it fully. Secondly, there are some frameworks on formulation of objectives. One of them is the SMART framework, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Consider the following objectives:

    a) I will plan for events and encourage residents to participate because I know they are rewarding.

    b) I would like to introduce origami by collecting unused paper with residents who are interested and re-use it for making arts and crafts for decorations.

Which one is a clearer objective?

4. What kind of portfolios are you looking for?

Can we rephrase the question into: “What kind of seniors are we looking for?” – because it is more relevant to answer. And that is what we are looking for: a senior. To be more precise, a senior who can be a role model for the juniors. Imagine if you were a junior again, what senior would you like to have in PH?

5. What and how many activities should I participate in to guarantee a stay?

This is a recurring question, but the wrong question to ask. The portfolio system was developed exactly to steer us away from bean-counting participation. We have limited rooms and more applicants than rooms, hence we need to have a selection process. Instead of feeling pressured to participate in more and more activities for the sake of guaranteeing a place to stay, we wish residents to lead and participate in well-conceptualized and well-planned hall activities that will create lasting impact that enriches their lives, not only at NUS but beyond. This is why in the portfolio we only ask you to share two experiences/activities that have created impact for you and others. This is more meaningful than participating in ten activities of which you do not know what the impact has been.

6. What should I do if I want to make changes to the portfolio that was already submitted?

7. Who will review my portfolio?

Each portfolio is reviewed by PH Management and PH Student Council. They will review the portfolios comprehensively. We hope this arrangement brings in views from multiple angles.

8. I have applied for the position of a Peer Mentor (PM). Do I need to submit a portfolio?

Yes, you do. As preparing for your role as PM, we would like each PM to exercise reflective practice. The portfolio is a starting point. This would continue during the Induction Programme for Student Leader (IPSL), as you will reflect on what you would have written now, and then continue to draft your portfolio from IPSL, and plan out in a more concrete manner during IPSL and in the coming weeks after that.