Why did you choose to pursue your undergraduate education with NUS Mathematics?
I didn’t originally plan to pursue Mathematics in university – chemistry was my first choice. However, as I progressed through my academic journey, I discovered the profound elegance of mathematics. During my IB studies, I explored the effectiveness of the bell curve in examining student performance and applied trigonometry to model Sentosa’s Palawan Bridge, revealing that mathematics is about uncovering patterns, understanding relationships, and modelling real-world phenomena.
Mathematics also taught me that not all problems have a single, certain answer. It fosters critical thinking, embraces complexity, and connects all sciences through timeless truths. Choosing NUS Mathematics became the natural step forward. Looking back, I’m glad I made the switch – it has equipped me with reasoning skills and the resilience to tackle challenges beyond academics.
How did the internship program benefit you in your (a) personal growth and development, (b) academic growth / learning and (c) career aspirations?
I will begin my internship in January 2025, and the process of self-sourcing it has already contributed significantly to my personal growth. From preparing for the interview to understanding the employer’s needs, this journey has familiarised me with the process of securing professional opportunities. Excelling in academics alone doesn’t guarantee an internship; it also requires practical skills such as effective communication, adaptability, and the ability to demonstrate value. This experience has boosted my confidence and prepared me to approach the internship with a mindset of continuous learning and meaningful contribution.
From an academic perspective, the internship bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. It has deepened my understanding of statistical concepts, particularly in data analysis, and provided valuable insights into aligning my academic pursuits with real-world demands.
The internship is also a valuable opportunity to clarify my career aspirations by offering a firsthand look at the industry and its operations. It has helped me identify areas I am passionate about and introduced me to new potential career paths I hadn’t previously considered.
Please describe your most memorable experiences as a student in NUS Mathematics. Did you face any challenges along the way? If so, how did you overcome these challenges?
I have been serving as the Marketing/Outreach Director for the NUS Mathematics Society since my second year at NUS. This role has allowed me to meet many interesting and academically brilliant peers, forging meaningful relationships through teamwork and shared experiences. Coming from diverse cultures and backgrounds, we each bring unique perspectives and qualities. These differences have inspired me to reflect on myself, step out of my comfort zone, and approach problems with an open mind. I have learned to appreciate diverse perspectives and embrace different opinions.
Who were the key individuals who supported and guided you throughout your four-year journey at the university? Is there anyone in particular whom you would like to pay tribute to or express your gratitude?
Throughout my journey at NUS, I have been fortunate to encounter many supportive staff members. I would particularly like to thank Professor Lee Soo Teck for his kindness and well-elaborated lectures, as well as Dr. Charmaine Sia, Dr. Wang Fei, Professor Brett McInnes, and Professor Wong Yan Loi for always taking the time to answer my doubts. I am also deeply grateful to Mrs. Yvette Seow for her kind support whenever I faced challenges during volunteering activities.
Additionally, I would like to express my gratitude to Ivan Tan, Tan Kin Aun, Zhang Ming Ke, and Markus Yeo for their patience and dedication in answering my questions as TAs.
What advice would you offer to fellow students who are keen on choosing NUS Mathematics for their undergraduate education?
University Mathematics may not be as challenging as you might imagine; it essentially builds on what we learned in high school, providing deeper explanations and insights into familiar concepts!