Intrigued by how different medicines affect the human body, choosing to pursue a degree in Pharmacy at the National University of Singapore (NUS) was always Sean Lim’s first choice. The decision to apply for the NUS Merit Scholarship was driven by its myriad of benefits. Gain insights into Sean’s scholarship application process and journey with him through his exciting first year at NUS. Find out how he aims to create new frontiers and break the traditional stereotype of the role of a pharmacist.
Not Just a Medicine Dispenser
The decision to pursue a degree in Pharmacy stems from my interest in the sciences and desire to learn how various medications affect the human body. To me, being a pharmacist is not just about the traditional stereotype of packing or dispensing medicine. I aspire to be one who can advise patients and other healthcare professionals on drug safety and management and support patients through their recovery. I chose NUS because the curriculum emphasises on the development of soft skills like patient counselling and offers many experiential learning opportunities such as internships at polyclinics and hospitals.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
My NUS experience has been very fulfilling and enriching so far. Besides the opportunity to participate in many different activities in Raffles Hall, I am also an active member of the NUS Pharmaceutical Society, planning many of the Freshman Orientation Projects (FOPs). I am the publicity head for Pharmacy RxAG’24 (Receiving and Giving), where I have to promote the event to incoming freshmen. In addition, I am also the Head Orientation Group Leader for the Pharmacy Orientation Camp to provide a memorable experience for freshmen. I am also grateful for the opportunity to be in the youth expedition project, Dispense a Dream, where I was part of an overseas community involvement programme in Cambodia in partnership with the YMCA and Water & Healthcare Foundation. I had the chance to present health topics to healthcare workers at Kampong Chhnang Provincial Health Department and share more about essential skills like first aid and CPR at the Rural Health Centres.
Deciding on the Right Scholarship
The NUS Merit Scholarship supports my journey as a student at NUS by covering my tuition fees and annual living expenses. Other benefits include guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the first two years. I had the privilege of residing in Raffles Hall and the opportunity to participate in and plan many hall events during my first year, allowing me to develop myself more holistically.
It also provides me with opportunities to enhance my skills to become a better leader, which is essential both in school and in the healthcare setting in the future. The scholarship selection process was smooth and straightforward. It required me to reply to 5-short questions and submit my achievements from co-curricular activities, and a referral report. This was followed by an online interview.
I believe a scholar should be an all-rounded individual and someone who is not afraid of stepping out of their comfort zone to pursue their interests. I was awarded the scholarship due to my passion and dedication to the sciences and the healthcare sector. Additionally, I could showcase my interests and leadership abilities through my co-curricular activities (CCA) records.
SEAN LIM JIA JUN
NUS Merit Scholarship
Bachelor of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore
Now: Year 1 Undergraduate