NUS Merit Scholar Lim Hui Yan is empowered to pursue her dream as an Educational Psychologist at NUS.
Why Did You Choose To Pursue Your Course of Study at NUS?
Upon graduation from Ngee Ann Polytechnic, I aspired to get into NUS which I know can provide me with fulfilling campus life and great learning vibes. Since young, I have always been intrigued by how people learn and retain information. I wish to learn more about teaching and learning and improve the teaching methods for children in Singapore. As a leading global university with world-class research and teaching facilities, I believe that NUS can further my intellectual development in the field of Psychology and empower me to pursue my dream as an Educational Psychologist.
Why Did You Accept the NUS Scholarship?
I applied for two bond-free scholarships at NUS and another autonomous university and was awarded both the NUS Merit Scholarship and the other scholarship. While both scholarships offered attractive benefits, the multitude of learning opportunities in NUS resonated well with my learning attitude and resulted in my decision to choose the NUS Merit Scholarship.
What Was the Selection Process Like?
I was indeed fortunate to receive the early invitation offer from NUS to apply for the NUS Scholarships. The application process was convenient and straightforward as the streamlined system allowed me to submit just one application for all available tiers of scholarships. Prior to being shortlisted for the interviews, I had to submit several documents that highlighted my academic and co-curricular achievements in Ngee Ann Polytechnic. There was only one round of interview for the NUS Merit Scholarship. During the interview, I was asked various questions regarding my life in Ngee Ann Polytechnic, my future aspirations, and my plans in NUS. With an open mind, I comfortably shared my past experiences with the panel of interviewers. It turned out to be one of the most memorable and meaningful interviews I had ever attended.
Why Do You Think You Were Awarded the Scholarship, and What Are the Qualities a Scholar Should Possess?
Being awarded the NUS Merit Scholarship is definitely a great privilege and a remarkable affirmation. Among numerous outstanding students who applied for this prestigious award, I believe my passion was the main determinant that distinguished me from other candidates. It is important to stay true to yourself. During the interview, I was able to speak comfortably with the interviewers and shared genuine stories that illustrated my passion for educating young children. Personally, I think that being a scholar is more than just doing well academically. I believe a scholar should also possess the heart to contribute back to society. Learn to serve, serve to learn – this phrase serves as a constant reminder that I should always be grateful for my blessings and that this gratitude should always translate to meaningful contributions back to society.
What Are the Benefits of Taking up an NUS Scholarship?
The status as a scholar instils confidence in me and encourages me to achieve greater academic performance in NUS. Besides academics, the scholarship allows me to reside on campus and relieves some of the costs. Staying on campus has become an integral part of my university life and I truly enjoy my stay in Residential College 4. The highly interactive environment in the hostel encourages me to step out of my comfort zone, interact with people from various courses and nationalities, and initiate purposeful discussions with distinguished visitors. Through badminton and various other inter-house activities, I managed to forge strong camaraderie with my peers and create many fond memories together.
How Has Your NUS Experience Been, and What Programmes and Activities Have You Participated in So Far?
My NUS experience has been nothing short of amazing. Living in Residential College 4 has provided me with many meaningful learning opportunities that I am truly thankful of. As the Vice-President of the Badminton Interest Group, I devote a considerable amount of time training alongside like-minded peers. I am really close to my housemates so we would often meet for suppers, engage in sincere conversations, and check on each other regularly to ensure that we are coping well with our studies. My stay in Residential College 4 has been beyond wonderful. To serve the college, I became an RC4 Ambassador so that I can share with prospective students and parents insights into university life. I also joined the Freshman Orientation Camp 2017 as the Logistics Head in the hope of facilitating a comfortable transition for my future juniors into Residential College 4.
LIM HUI YAN
NUS Merit Scholarship
Now: First year at NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
From: Ngee Ann Polytechnic