Dreaming of a runaway success

By Valerie Yeo

Second-year student, Faculty of Science


STUDENT DIRECTOR OF RUNNUS 2010: Valerie Yeo


RUNNUS: The race is on again – for a worthy cause!
I've got my fingers and toes crossed that the weather will stay perfect in August. It will mark the start of my third year in NUS and see my dream come true: thousands running to raise funds for students who face financial difficulties.

I came to NUS to study Chemistry. I never imagined when I first walked on to the campus that I would one day be one of the main organisers of NUS's biggest annual student-initiated run: RunNUS.

Being part of the organising team for RunNUS has been an amazing whole new learning experience. My co-director Yeow Jiansheng and I are responsible for overseeing all the different elements of the race: managing the run, planning the route, conceptualising the stage programme for the entertainment and organising the carnival. We work with 27 capable individuals with diverse backgrounds who have given their hearts and souls to this project.

Of course, no matter how much time you spend planning, there can be factors which are completely beyond your control. Last year, we had no choice but to cancel the race half way through because of heavy rain.

This year, I am particularly excited about RunNUS as we have added a new fundraising element. All the participants' fees will go towards bursaries to help students in financial need. We are also encouraging runners to use social media – such as Facebook – to get their friends and family to pledge money to support them in the race. During my time at NUS, I have met many wonderful, gifted people who would not be here if it were not for financial aid so I feel very passionately about this cause. Everyone deserves a fulfilling education and we should all play a part in helping others enjoy this privilege.

I also strongly believe in the importance of promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, not only in NUS but also among the public. I hope that RunNUS can play a role in involving more people in sport. It would be fantastic if, one day, RunNUS could be a fixture on Singapore's calendar like the Standard Chartered Marathon.

Working on RunNUS has enabled me to acquire many skills which I believe will help me both in my academic studies as well as when I leave NUS to pursue a professional career. I've learnt to be more organised, manage teams efficiently and work within tight deadlines.

Last year, 1,600 runners took part in the race. We hope to exceed that number this year. We'll find out on 15 August. Let's hope the rain stays away and the sun comes out to play.

Support NUS student bursaries by taking part in RunNUS 2010, a student-organised race around the Kent Ridge Campus on 15 August 2010. Run in the 5km or 10km categories or sponsor a runner. A prize is available for the partici¬pant who raises the most amount of money. For further informa¬tion and to register, visit www.runnus2010.com.