For NUS Global Merit Scholar Joshua Law, choosing to study Physics is a natural choice as he has always been fascinated by how the laws of nature underpin everything around us. Joshua’s route to pursuing his preferred course of study was not an easy one. He was able to secure the scholarship not only because of his academic achievements, but also through the resilience he demonstrated in overcoming personal challenges and his passion for science.
Currently a Year 2 undergraduate, he is thriving in NUS’s vibrant learning environment. Grateful for his rewarding journey, Joshua sheds light on his scholarship application process and his rewarding NUS experience so far.
NUS – An Obvious Choice
I chose to study Physics because I have always been fascinated by how the laws of nature underpin everything around us – from the behaviour of light to the movement of planets. NUS was a clear choice as it offers a rigorous yet flexible physics curriculum that encourages analytical thinking and creativity. I was also drawn to the university’s strong academic reputation and vibrant learning environment, where collaboration and curiosity are highly valued.
The Merits of a Scholarship
I accepted the NUS Global Merit Scholarship, which allows me to pursue my academic ambitions confidently, without burdening my family financially. It also connects me to a community of passionate and driven individuals who motivate one another to grow. To me, being a scholar means embracing curiosity, responsibility, and service – values I strive to uphold both in my studies and personal pursuits. The scholarship provided both tangible and intangible benefits. Financially, it includes tuition coverage and housing subsidies, which allowed me to stay on campus and immerse myself fully in university life. This has been especially meaningful as my family has been going through financial difficulties. The scholarship eases that burden and allows me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies. Beyond finances, it offers access to enriching academic programmes, leadership workshops, and opportunities to represent NUS globally.
Making the Cut Goes Beyond Grades
The selection process was a rigorous but meaningful experience. It began with an application highlighting my academic achievements, leadership roles, and personal reflections, followed by an interview that tested my ability to think critically and express my motivations clearly. I recalled questions that encouraged me to reflect deeply on my interests and long-term aspirations. Although it was challenging, I appreciated how the process pushed me to articulate who I was beyond grades – someone driven by curiosity, discipline, and a desire to keep learning. I believe I was awarded the scholarship because of my consistent academic effort, passion for learning, and resilience through personal and family challenges. Competing internationally in Scrabble, where I placed 4th globally, taught me discipline, focus, and strategic thinking – qualities that mirror the analytical mindset needed in physics. I also believe the selection panel recognised my ability to balance academics with leadership and community involvement. A scholar, to me, should embody curiosity, humility, and perseverance – someone who not only strives for personal excellence but also uplifts others along the way.
Learning Beyond the Classroom and Singapore
My NUS journey has been both challenging and rewarding. The opportunity to explore interdisciplinary learning through the Special Programme in Science (SPS) and residential colleges like Ridge View Residential College (RVRC) has further enriched my education, allowing me to grow not just as a student but as a curious thinker. Through SPS, I learned how different fields of science converge to solve complex problems. In RVRC, I have found a close-knit community that encourages learning beyond the classroom.
As I am about to commence the NUS French Double Degree Programme (FDDP), the immersion trip has already opened my eyes to global approaches to science and education, and I look forward to experiencing this firsthand in France. I was drawn to the programme because I wanted to see how science is approached in another part of the world and to challenge myself in a new environment. I prepared extensively for the application by seeking advice from seniors, refining my essays, and researching the schools in France. I was eventually offered a place in CentraleSupélec (a grande école in France), which is deeply meaningful to me. It taught me the importance of perseverance, self-reflection, and expressing one’s motivations clearly.
Altogether, these experiences have shaped me into a more thoughtful, independent, and resilient individual – qualities I hope to carry forward as both a scholar and a person.
JOSHUA LAW BING HA
NUS Global Merit Scholarship
Bachelor of Science in Physics, National University of Singapore, Year 2