Valerie Wong is no stranger to Wesley Tidings. She has been a regular contributor to Wesley Tidings since she served in Wesley Communications at the end of 2022. A fourth-year English Literature undergraduate at Nanyang Technological University, Valerie believes in living out her faith through action. We are struck by her faithfulness at such a young age and her deep commitment to using her considerable intellectual gifts as an instrument for the Lord. Despite her busy school schedule, Valerie graciously answered some questions for Everyday Christianity: Faith@Work. Read on to learn more about her journey, her commitment to serving in church and on campus, and how she navigates the complexities of being a young adult while keeping her faith at the centre.
Tell us about yourself and your family, Valerie.
I’m currently pursuing my passion for literature as an English Literature student at NTU. This interest blossomed during my ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels, and I’m thrilled to be able to delve deeper into it now. Prior to university, I was involved in various extracurricular activities, ranging from Choir and Art Club to Civil Defence Lionhearters. I’m incredibly blessed to come from a loving Christian family—my parents, younger brother (who’s in polytechnic), and myself. My parents’ self-employment allows for a flexible schedule, giving us ample opportunities to connect and spend quality time together. I cherish the support and encouragement we offer one another, especially when facing life’s challenges.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day involves attending seminars, having lunch with friends, and then heading off to my part-time tutoring job in the evenings. Once I’m home, it’s time to relax with some Chinese dramas—the perfect way to unwind after a busy day!
Do you serve in any campus community activities or Church ministries?
Currently, I’m actively involved in the Wesley Communications Ministry, contributing articles to Wesley Tidings. I especially enjoy writing reflection pieces, and it’s fulfilling to use my academic skills to serve the Church. Beyond that, I strive to be a positive influence on campus, reflecting God’s light in my interactions and actions.
In what ways do you share your faith in your community and other spheres of involvement? How can students glorify God in their vocation and schools?
I often share my faith through personal testimonies, recounting how God has worked in my life. Sharing my experiences, particularly during challenging times, allows me to highlight God’s faithfulness and love. Students have numerous opportunities to glorify God. They can excel in their studies, even if the subject matter is difficult, and show respect to their teachers and classmates. Encouraging peers and offering positive words of affirmation are also powerful ways to reflect God’s love. Additionally, choosing to avoid gossip and negativity demonstrates a commitment to living out Christian values.
In what ways can you integrate your faith and your life as a student to evangelise to others? Can you give examples?
Evangelism can be done through both actions and words. Showing love and support to others, especially during tough times, is a tangible way to express God’s love. It’s also important to demonstrate forgiveness and respect, even towards those who may have wronged us. As a tutor, I strive to be patient, understanding, and genuinely interested in my students’ well-being, going beyond just academics.
What are some of the ways you have served in Church ministry?
I’ve been involved in various ministries at Wesley. Previously, I served in the 12 Stones sub-ministry within the Wesley Youth Ministry, where I contributed my photography skills. More recently, I was an usher for the 11.30 am Prayer and Praise Welcome Team. Currently, I’m serving in the Wesley Communications Ministry.
What are your views on balancing work and rest? Do you incorporate a regular Sabbath, and how do you find rest in God while studying and helping in ministry?
Maintaining a healthy balance between work and rest is crucial. I observe a regular Sabbath every Sunday, refraining from work and dedicating that time to church, ministry, and family. I also create a daily timetable to incorporate rest into my schedule, ensuring I have dedicated time for God amidst my studies and ministry commitments.
What are your challenges as a student and young adult today? In what ways are you stressed and how do you deal with it?
As a student, stress often arises from academic pressures like grades and deadlines. As a young adult, concerns about financial stability and future career choices can also be overwhelming. I cope with stress through prayer, worship music, and hobbies like drawing and baking. Taking walks in nature also helps me to clear my mind and find peace.
How do you view success in today’s world?
As a Christian, I believe that true success lies in fulfilling God’s will for my life and using my gifts and talents to serve Him.
What issues are close to your heart as a young adult?
Financial concerns, career decisions, and relationship matters are all close to my heart. While these issues can be stressful, I find comfort in knowing that God is in control and that He has a plan for my life. Surrendering my worries to Him brings peace and reassurance to me.
Where do you find God in the mundane and ordinary?
God’s presence is evident even in the everyday moments. I experience His strength during long days at school, His wisdom in navigating difficult conversations, and His peace during stressful exam seasons. I’m also reminded of Him when I find the courage to speak up in class or stand up for myself.
Any thoughts on what career you would like to embark on in the future? If yes, how can you impact the world through that?
I’m considering becoming a teacher or pursuing full-time tutoring. I believe that educators have a unique opportunity to shape future generations by inspiring a love for learning and instilling good values. Teaching is a form of ministry, allowing me to make a positive impact on young lives.
How have you seen God work in your life so far?
God has been incredibly faithful throughout my life. One particularly impactful experience was after receiving disappointing ‘A’ Level results. I felt lost and uncertain about my future. However, through prayer and surrendering my worries to God, He opened doors I never thought possible, leading me to my dream course at NTU. This experience taught me the power of trusting in God’s plan, even when things seem bleak.
Photos courtesy of Valerie Wong
Read also: ‘But Only by the Grace of God’: An Interview with Zarah Joy Salvatiera, HR Personnel
Everyday Christianity: Faith@Work is an interview series with Wesleyans from diverse age groups and walks of life. In this series, published in conjunction with our church’s theme for 2024 – Directions 2024: Discipleship in the Workplace , we hope to discover more about the perspectives of Wesleyans in different vocations on how they live out their faith every day, specifically in their workplaces, homes, or communities where they serve. More than just stories of success in victory, we also want to hear their stories of perseverance that point to the reality that our Father is a living God who is ever present in the mountain peaks and valley lows of our everyday lives. For more on Workplace Conversations, please listen to our podcasts by Rev Raymond Fong at Wesley Podcast • A podcast on Spotify for Podcasters .
