Discover NYP

Getting an internship opportunity in an airline is no easy feat, but Kush Yogesh Kumar Madia, NYP’s Diploma in Aerospace Systems & Management alumnus, was privileged to land into a 24-week internship at Jetstar Asia Airways Pte Ltd.

Armed with “an all-rounded education” from NYP, Kush was ready to become an integral part of the crew. Being a member of the Materials team and the Fleet Planning team from the Engineering and Maintenance Department helped him immerse in the workings of the industry and allowed him to gain an in-depth understanding of the airline operations.

The communication skills, multitasking and time management capabilities, and technical knowledge that he picked up in NYP came in handy at work. “Internship was an eye-opener for me. It brought my lessons to life.” says Kush. “I had opportunities to observe the aircraft as well as its systems and components up close. I also get to go on workshop visits, Maintenance Repair & Overhaul conferences and exhibitions, hangar visits and occasional rounds to the ramp area with the engineers to inspect the aircraft.”

It’s a whole new ballgame for Kush now that he signed on as an Air Force Engineer, but we’ve got to say that his journey thus far has been incredible.

Ready for a fun and rewarding internship? Be innovative and enterprising, choose your own adventure at NYP Open House from 7 to 9 Jan 2016!

Published in the Jan 2016 Issue of Teenage Magazine. Reproduced with Permission.

One stellar entrepreneur in his own right, Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) alumnus from the Diploma in Sport & Wellness Management, Tan Tse Yong is fast making a name for himself in the industry. But what’s the secret to his start-up success?

From a star student to the boss of three lucrative ventures, Tan Tse Yong built a multi-million health and wellness empire after graduating from NYP in 2004. But what’s unexpected was that this former Junior College student once struggled with his grades. “I failed the General Paper at the GCE ‘A’ Level,” Tse Yong confesses, but it proved to be a good wake-up call. “This setback taught me that my worth in life was not to be determined by a piece of paper.”

After completing National Service, Tse Yong went to pursue Diploma in Sport and Wellness Management in NYP. It was there that he met his business partner, Steve Chan. With the encouragement from their lecturers, the duo went into gym management business and in 2010, they launched FitLion, a sports nutrition superstore to promote healthy living. Their decision to enter e-commerce paid off, with the brand emerging as the top sports nutrition online retailer in Singapore and is expecting a projected sales of $10 million this year. They also own seven gym outlets and recently started their food business arm, The Protein Cafe.

Crediting his achievements to his alma mater, he recalls how NYP had “prepared me to handle the different aspects of business like human resource, finance and logistics”. He also picked up networking and analytical skills, which provided a strong foundation for his businesses. Tse Yong is enjoying a tidal wave of success and it’s poised to grow even bigger. “We hope to go beyond the borders to establish ourselves in the region, such as Malaysia, Taiwan and China.”

Inspired by his entrepreneurial adventure? Be innovative and enterprising, choose your own adventure at NYP Open House from 7 to 9 Jan 2016!

Published in the Jan 2016 Issue of Teenage Magazine. Reproduced with Permission.

Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds? For Teo Yi Xuan (above, extreme left), a student pursuing the Diploma in Social Sciences (Social Work) at Nanyang Polytechnic, she sees the world and experiences another culture, all while making a difference in other people’s lives. Earlier this year, she went on a three-week overseas exchange programme to Hong Kong’s Caritas Institute of Higher Education, where she attended social work lectures, visited social service agencies, and participated in various outreach and volunteering projects.

However, the most rewarding part of the journey is the friendships forged between Yi Xuan and the social work students in Hong Kong. “They’re extremely welcoming,” she shares. “We’ve grown really close over the three weeks, sharing everything from our passion for social work to our troubles in life.”

She took home more than just memories – through the various field trips, she gained a better idea of the different approaches used in managing social service agencies: “The knowledge I gained on the trip helped to widen my perspective on social services. It made me ponder about our current systems and how we can improve them.”

Besides Hong Kong, she also went to Shanghai for a social work exchange programme and Malaysia for a Polytechnic forum. Yi Xuan looks forward to adding the “more developed” Western countries into her bucket, and plans to further her studies in social work at National University of Singapore.

Make the world your classroom. Be innovative and enterprising, choose your own adventure at NYP Open House from 7 to 9 Jan 2016!

Published in the Dec 2015 Issue of Teenage Magazine. Reproduced with Permission.

The big question that every student will have to answer is not found in exam papers, and has no right or wrong answer. The answer is often attained through trial and error. In NYP, however, ECG (Education and Career Guidance) @ Central looks to help ease the process of determining career choices for students. It is, however, not a place where the answers are given on a silver platter. ECG @ Central helps students discover themselves, before they go on to tackle the world.

Ms Georgina Ong, who is a counsellor at ECG @ Central, counsels students who have those big questions, “The three main questions usually asked are: ‘Who am I?’, ‘Where do I go?’, and ‘How do I get there?’”

These are definitely questions many students going into working life might face, and the step up into adulthood can be an easy transition for some, but a pretty daunting experience for others. Many have spent more time than they should trying to discover themselves, while others only discover it during a mid-life crisis. But, that is not the only problem that students face.

“Employers now tend to hire on a 1-year or 2-year contract, very rarely offering something permanent. Our students today can be looking at changing jobs every 1 or 2 years if their contract is not renewed,” Ms Ong explained.

“It is therefore important that they make that self-discovery, so that they can find a career that suits them.”

ECG @ Central uses the RAISEC code (a popular job assessment tool), founded by John Holland, to help each student discover his or her own traits and values. Students use the ‘VIPS’ template, which stands for values, interest, personality, and skills. It takes a maximum of one hour to complete, and consists of choosing different human values and occupations through decks of cards. The counsellors will be talking with students through the process, and would ask the students to think of the choices they make, including the fact that an ideal self may not accurately reflect one’s own characteristics.

“Values that are chosen may only fit the current context of a student’s situation, and those values would always change after a period of time,” said Ms Ong. “I believe progress stops only when you die.”

Ms Ong is also a firm believer of neuroplasticity, the idea that a brain would continue to grow with new found knowledge. ECG @ Central looks to further protect the interests of students, by pointing them to the right path, so that they can embark on a journey of life-long learning.

Indeed, student-transition into the work-life will no longer be such an unnerving experience, not with the help of the counsellors at ECG @ Central.

By Nasruddin Islam Bin Ramli, Diploma in Electronics, Computer & Communications Engineering

A Diploma in Electronics, Computer and Communications Engineering student, Nas hopes to be able to achieve his dream and make little changes that would benefit the world. But he also understands that life has its curve-balls, so he would just be happy being able to improve himself as a person and a human-being by learning something new every day, regardless of it being inside or outside the classroom.

Photo by David Lau, The Write Stuff

In December, most people are busy doing Christmas shopping, trying to find the perfect gift for their loved ones, or occupied with decorating their homes for the festive season. However, NYP’s ambassadorial team and student volunteers from across NYP decided to organise an event to bring cheer to old folks at the Ren Ci Community Hospital.

Besides bringing some festive cheer to the patients, this event also had our youths step out of their comfort zones and reach out to the community. We hope by spending a meaningful and interactive day at Ren Ci, our volunteers can personally experience and learn more about different values and perspectives.

On Sunday, 20 December 2015, the volunteers gathered at Novena MRT station at 8.30am before making their way to Ren Ci Community Hospital. At the community hospital, the volunteers were split into two groups – each group attending to different wards. The two groups were then further split into teams of four, with each team responsible for either craftwork, singing or befriending.

After a briefing from the Ren Ci Community Hospital staff, the volunteers set off to put a smile on each patient’s face. Those in charge of craftwork handed out handmade Christmas-themed keychains, origami cranes, hearts and flowers while those in charge of singing went from ward to ward singing Christmas carols such as ‘Jingle bell rock’, ‘Santa Claus is coming to town’ as well as popular songs in different languages, such as ‘Chan Mali Chan’, ‘ Di Tanjong Katong’, ‘ Tian Mi Mi’(甜蜜蜜) and ‘Yue Liang Dai Biao Wo De Xin’(月亮代表我的心).

Some of the patients in the wards with chronic illnesses or severe medical conditions were bedridden and unresponsive or not able to express themselves due to the various machines they were hooked up to. Nevertheless, the volunteers remained optimistic and continued chatting with the patients even though there was little or no response as they just wanted the patients to know that they were not alone.

Fortunately, there were some elderly aunties and uncles that were rather chatty and the volunteers had a blast chatting to them about the dramas they were watching. They also sang Christmas carols with them and taught them how to fold origami. Whenever they were not undergoing treatment or physiotherapy, a few of the elderly patients expressed an interest in colouring to occupy themselves during their free time.

Fellow volunteer Aaron Tay, from the Diploma in Molecular Biotechnology course felt that more people should take part in such community service.

He said: “This trip has been a real eye opener and very meaningful for me. More people should volunteer for these activities as there is always something to take away at the end of each activity.”

By Brina Lim, Diploma in Molecular Biotechnology

Brina is a student in the Molecular biotechnology course, and her hobbies include reading and writing. She is an avid fan of Jodi Picoult’s books and loves the Harry Potter series since she was a child. She enjoys reading news about England’s royal family and finds a role model in Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. Her favourite artiste is Taylor Swift and her dream vacation would be in London, touring the museums there, visiting the Buckingham palace and spending time beside the river Thames.

Everyone thinks he or she understands what it means to be a journalist.

It's like those “What they think I do” memes (see below).

Being in Business School's Mass Media Management (JAE course code C93) opened my eyes to the importance of every aspect of media. We had to do a lot of writing, and even had to pretend to be reporters in a mock press conference. We also came up with our own magazines and had to complete articles under a time limit, detailing facts from a fictional case.

I had always admired journalists since I was really young. They command true respect. I could not fathom the hardships they have to go through, especially foreign correspondents in war-torn countries.

Then I had the privilege of interning at Singapore Press Holdings – The New Paper. Yet nothing - not a thing - prepares you for what you are about to face.

●You get thrown to the wolves immediately (they don’t treat you like a newbie)
●You have to accept it when things don’t go your way
●You run around entire malls/streets/HDB flats trying to find a story
●You talk to all kinds of people, in English or Mandarin (I knew next to none)
●You’re constantly calling people to check facts
●You don't get to pick your stories, and a lot of the ideas you pitch get rejected
●You get chided, scolded, and nagged at like you're three-year-old
●You have to work around a daily deadline and sometimes go home past midnight

This may sound extremely disheartening, but only if you look at it from that way.

●You do not sit behind a desk doing grunt work. You are out there every day trying to tell a meaningful story
●You understand what it means to truly persevere
●You meet amazing individuals who do not turn you away when you truly need them
●My understanding of Mandarin and Malay improved!
●You learn to be thorough with your work
●You still get sent out to write on spectacular events and speak to A-list celebrities and A-list regular folks
●If you do not learn from criticism you can never truly grow
●That rush of adrenaline, to beat the clock, is all part of the fun

The training I received from NYP also worked out well when I had to take my own photos and edit a video interview with zero cutaways.

What makes this sacrifice ultimately worth it?
A by-line in the newspapers (you may read my articles here).

It’s your name, with the words you toiled over for hours, and perhaps pictures you took while the photographers were all busy.

It may be seem like nothing, but to me it meant everything. Making the front page is a sweet bonus too.

Despite all the blood, sweat (lots of that) and tears (yes, I cried on occasion), I have learnt so much.

I was honestly shocked at how my time spent interning had changed me. I pushed myself harder at SPH than anywhere else.

Me (top row, extreme left) with the first batch of interns I got to know

Clarity is key. Being backed into a corner, with a “deadline monster” breathing down my neck, made me write faster and think clearer. And speed is everything in news.

I had to be adaptable and flexible enough to think on my feet because during work you may be thrown any random personality (to interview) or event (to cover).

Honestly, the friends you make will enhance your experience because no one else can relate better to the work you are doing than the other interns can.

For some, it may be the last thing in this world they would ever do again. But there are those who think: There is nothing else in this world I would rather do.

By Jade Teo, Diploma in Mass Media Management

For 18 years, Jade has been tirelessly working on ways to cure “boredom”. She tried watching chefs like Nigella Lawson on TV, creating a solar-powered boat with little success, taking a literature trip to UK with friends, riding in the front seat of an ambulance and a fire truck, but nothing worked as well as her first adventure - writing. Without it and her books, she wouldn’t have been cured

Even when he was still a student, entrepreneur Raniel Lee always had a plan. Raniel pursued his Diploma in Business Informatics (DBI) at NYP because he wanted to learn more about creating a profitable business. When he was still a student in NYP, Raniel set up his first business, InspireARTS LLP. Recently, he established his second business, Jobook, which was first conceptualised as a Final Year Project in NYP (in 2012).

“Jobook was created to match job-seekers directly to employers, cutting out the difficulties of previous experiences I had,” Raniel said.

“The idea started when a group of friends and I went to find holiday jobs by going through an agency. We found out that the agency takes part of our income for every hour we work.”
Thinking back on the difficulties on finding holiday jobs or part-time jobs, Raniel understood that it had always been difficult for students to earn that bit of extra money, and going through interview after interview for a part-time job was very time consuming, so he began to think that there must be an easier way.

“The idea of sending resumes to the agency, to get a call, only to go through the same process of papers and interviews again is tedious,” Raniel explained.

Incorporating his love for technology, Raniel developed Jobook, a career development platform that is based on job seekers’ preferences and availability. Jobook keeps track of when job seekers are free, and automatically matches them to employers who need candidates during that specific period of time.

Raniel graduated in 2013 and then served his National Service (NS) for two years. It was during his NS where he met his two partners - Daryl Sim Kwan Yee and Vignesh Manu - who would make his vision into reality. Coincidentally, they all discovered that they were alumni of NYP!

The two years inside NS gave them more than enough time to plan, and figure out how to put Raniel’s plan into action. It was there where they laid the foundation of his idea, and subsequently created an enterprise that is feasible and profitable today.

Before they completed their NS, the trio came to NYP to apply for NEST (NYP Entrepreneurship Startup) incubation space, which provided students and graduates with basic equipment and resources to start-up a company.

Not everything falls easily into place even after two-years of planning. The trio faced difficulties such as sourcing for manpower, and in the development of Jobook’s User Interface (UI), working on making it easily accessible to mobile devices, in order to attract more candidates to use the platform.
Raniel said: “We also had to engage another web-developer to establish a web-presence for Jobook as the previous one did not work out.”

“Current difficulties include linking up our clients to relevant jobs, as well as individual preferences, but we are able to do as best as we can. For example, we had 20 jobs today, at the end of the day, we had 5 left!” Raniel exclaimed.

Raniel (front row) in dark blue jacket with his team

When talking about the future of Jobook, Raniel said: “In future, we are looking to revolutionize on how employment agencies will be run, and Jobook would be a one-stop solution for employee welfare, and training.”

It looks like Jobook is not about to rest on its laurels, as the owners look to better their achievements. Their dreams are big, and Jobook looks like it will further evolve. The future of Jobook looks promising, and exciting.

Watch Raniel explain how Jobook operates:

By Nasruddin Islam Bin Ramli, Diploma in Electronics, Computer & Communications Engineering

You’ve just received your O-level results and you already know that polytechnic life is for you. But with 5 different polytechnics to choose from, it can get quite overwhelming. Read on to find out my top five reasons for Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP).

Reason #5 – Convenient & Centralised Location

Did you know NYP is located right smack (nearly) in the middle of two MRT stations: Ang Mo Kio (AMK) and Yio Chu Kang? Getting to and from NYP is a mere 10-minutes walk away from Yio Chu Kang MRT. And the path to the NYP campus is even sheltered, a boon for rainy days. With its convenient and centralised location, it is easy to get to places you wish to go after school!

Rushing for an afternoon movie at AMK Hub? Walk or take a 3-stop bus ride on Bus 265.

Heading to the Mandai Zoo or Night Safari? Take Bus 138 from the bus interchange at AMK Hub.
PS: Say hi to JiaJia and KaiKai for me!

Going for a night out in town with some friends after that tedious paper? Only a 20 minute MRT ride away.

How about shopping for clothes at Bugis Street? Just a 30 minute MRT ride away.

Did somebody say convenient??

NYP also charters one-way shuttle buses in the morning! Pick up points are scattered around Singapore, ensuring that students have transport from all corners of Singapore! You can check out more details on the shuttle service here.

Reason #4 –Good Teaching Facilities

NYP has built high-tech laboratories filled with industry standard equipment not only to allow students to experience first-hand working in industry but to also help them gain confidence in handling such equipment and technologies when they enter the industry.

As a Diploma in Food Science & Nutrition (DFSN) student, I’ve attended many lessons held in the Food Pilot Plant which is made up of five application labs: fermentation, meat processing, beverages, confectionary, and bakery products.

I have no problem visualising and understanding food processes, thanks to the Food Pilot Plant which has provided opportunities for me to run and test machines like the meat tumbler and spray dryer.

This beats just reading about them and staring at the pictures provided in lecture notes.

In addition, NYP cultivates partnerships with many industry partners. This has benefited students like myself as we get the chance to work on real life industry projects.

Some examples include:

- 3D Printing: Engineering students are able to use 3D printers to create, examine and analyse the physical attributes of their product designs, in the Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre.
- HIMSS & Teaching Dental Clinic: The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Centre of Excellence has electronic medical record systems, wireless vital signs monitoring and even a simulated Intensive Care Unit for training nurses. Dental students can provide oral health care services to NYP staff because they are equipped with necessary dental equipment in a real clinical setting
- Centre for IT Innovation: IT Students are kept up-to-date of technological advances as they work on industry and in-house projects.
- Game Resource Centre: Thanks to a partnership with Sony Computer Entertainment Japan Asia, students can develop games on the PlayStation®3 platform in this learning lab.

Reason #3 - Conducive Study Spaces

NYP is filled with conducive study spaces. There are cosy nooks and corners all around campus fitted with electrical points for you to plug in your laptops and charge your electronic devices.
These include the seats around our corridors and also the lush green corners in our many different gardens.

If you prefer to have some fresh air whilst you complete your revision then look out for any of the 12 state-of-the-art gazebos located around the north and south gardens. Not only are these gazebos meant to provide a peaceful study and interaction space for students, it being built around existing trees also mean preservation of the trees whilst providing extra shade to users.

If you prefer air-conditioned comfort, you can even eat while you study at L’café in the NYP Library.

Level 4 at the library is dedicated for “noisier” activities. Seats catered to large groups and individuals can be found scattered around this level. But if you’re looking for a more private space and a place to do project discussions with your friends, then go ahead and book one of the many learning pods and research carrels available throughout the day.

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet to do some last minute mugging before finals, then head on up to Level 5 of the library. This level of the library is filled with individual study booths catered to students who thrive on independent, self-study.

Newly opened on 10th December 2015, NYP also has 2 reading lounges outside the library’s main entrance.

#2 – Countless Opportunities

During my first year at NYP as a DFSN student, my class was privileged to be paired up with Swissbake Pte Ltd for one of our innovation modules. On the first lesson, the head baker at Swissbake came down personally to do a demonstration on the proper baking techniques and steps.

He answered all our question and cleared any doubts we had on designing our own baked products. That particular lesson was one that I remember till this day. I gained so much insight and tips that proved valuable and ultimately allowed me to ace that particular module.

At NYP, the possibilities are endless and no student is left behind. NYP offers countless opportunities to each and every student, regardless of grades or financial background - from exchange programmes to giving back to the community to internship programmes both locally and overseas.

Just for this year, NYP gave out 171 scholarships to students, providing recognition to students with excellent academic achievements, strong leadership qualities, and active CCA participation.

#1 – Amazing lecturers!

The lecturers at NYP are always here to help you every step of the way. Eventually, they stop being just lecturers and become your mentors and friends. In fact, I cannot count with just one hand the number of lecturers whom my friends and I have bonded with, shared meals with, celebrated birthdays with, and even gained contacts for internship and ad-hoc job opportunities from.

I am eternally grateful to these lecturers for all that I have gained and accomplished during my studies at NYP. They continuously push me to be much more than what I already am, allowing me to reach my peak potential. I trust that they will do the same and maybe even more for you.

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NYP’s vision is to be a premier polytechnic of global distinction. It aims to provide quality education and training students and adult learners for work and life, enabling them to contribute to the technological, economic, and social development of Singapore.

As a final year student who has spent three years of her life here, I am truly proud to say that NYP is well on its way of reaching its vision.

Established in 1992, NYP is the 4th polytechnic in Singapore. Home to approximately 1500 staff members, 16,000 students enrolled in 46 diploma courses, and over 80 CCAs, NYP sure has a lot to offer.

Will you be here to confirm all that I’ve said in 2016 as a newly enrolled student?

Need more reasons? Check out Germaine's 10 Awesome Places to Visit in NYP

By Felicia Kwan, Diploma in Food Science & Nutrition

Felicia is an aspiring writer who loves to eat & travel around the world. She is also an avid reader, and hopes to inspire the world with her writing one day.

School is not all about studies and grades – especially if you spend most of your time in campus. One of the key benefits of studying in a Polytechnic would be all the awesome facilities. With 2015 being the year NYP’s new facilities are scheduled to be completed, here’s the guide for you to check out the new and useful places to visit, and enjoy in 2016!

1)T-Junction

Creatively designed with a wide variety of entertainment facilities, T-Junction is the place to go after a tiring class. You could grab a board game or bond over a game of pool, or air-hockey, belt out to your favourite song at the karaoke booths or challenge your friends to a video game! Hungry? Fret not, for there is T-Café. Accessible from both inside and outside NYP, this vibrant café sells a range of tasty snacks from the must-have cheese fries to the good ole’ smoothie.

Photo by Felicia Kwan

2)Bodywatch Gym

On the second storey of T-Junction sits the newly-built Bodywatch Gym. With a wide variety of gym equipment available, this spacious gym could just be mistaken for a professional fitness club. Whilst pursuing a fit lifestyle, you could enjoy the view of NYP’s neighbourhood, and sneak a smile at the commuters in the MRT trains.

PS: Let’s not forget the relatively comfortable shower rooms right next to the gym.

3)Foodgle Hub

After a long day studying diligently, one should definitely pamper his/her growling stomach. Head over to the new canteen at Block P1. Aside from popular brands like Gong Cha, Astons and Taiwan Ichiban, Foodgle is famous for its tasty Ayam Penyet. With the new addition of Happy Rollies ice-cream, we are certain you can keep your tummy happy. From a hearty meal to a treat for your sweet tooth, Foodgle has it covered.

4)L’Rez

Perhaps you love fine dining and would like to satisfy your cravings during school hours, then head down to L’Rez, NYP’s very own training restaurant. Perfectly elegant, L’Rez offers a full 3-course meal at an affordable price ($12)! Could it get any better? Yes! Celebrity chefs are invited to cook with the students, and their menus often feature signature dishes that are oh so delectable!

5)New Annex at Blk A
The heart of the campus has all the conveniences you will ever need!

Cheers: Say your next class starts in a few minutes but you skipped breakfast that morning. Your everyday convenience store is now available in NYP. Grab a can of coffee for an energy boost or chow down a warm chicken pie. Never have to go with an empty stomach!

Connect’On: One of Singapore’s well-established telecommunication services, Starhub, is now available in NYP. Tech-savvy students can drop by to get a first-hand preview of the latest gadgets and tech accessories.

Popular Bookstore: When there are students, there must be stationery! Ran out of pen ink? Need a file to organise your notes? We have our very own Popular Bookstore in Campus! Just flash your admin card and get a student discount on every purchase.

Photo by Felicia Kwan

6)D’Studio

D’Studio is a mini shopping area selling a wide range of apparels, skincare products, gadgets and unique trinkets. You may discover well-known brands like The Faceshop and many more; I’ll leave the exploring to you. They say that retail therapy works wonders, happy shopping!

7)Library

Though we should take a break from our work, we have to get back to it after resting. NYP’s library is the perfect place to kick start productivity. There are two levels – the lower level for you and your friends to discuss your project over coffee and cake at the L’café; or above, where there are stylish study pods for you to work in silence and peace. It’s so quiet you can even hear a pin drop! The best part? There are many sound-proof project rooms for you and your friends to discuss your presentations and projects. Make as much noise as you want, the noise bounces off the walls and it is like there are two different worlds on one single level. Nice!

8)Reading Lounge

NYP’s newly-opened Reading Lounge is a specially designed space for collaborative learning and self-study. When the lifestyle area in the library is crowded, head over to the Reading Lounge outside the library. You can do your discussions at the movable tables and chairs, or lounge at the comfortable terrace seats that come with a view. There are a variety of tables, long ones for big groups, round tables for small group discussions and comfortable sofas to rest and relax. With doors leading to an outdoor platform, we can anticipate a veranda in the next semester!

9)Sky Garden

Clinching the Excellence Award in the Skyrise Greenery Awards 2015, NYP is acknowledged for our picturesque and beautiful sky gardens at Block P and S. With ample sunlight and shady areas, these roof gardens are the perfect places for you to capture the beautiful campus memories with your buddies.

10)Sports Complex

Last but not least, the Sports Complex at Block F and G is where the sporty gather. What’s available? Swimming pools, an indoor stadium, rock-climbing wall, outdoor track, tennis courts and a high element course. You name it, we have it! If the gym does not satisfy your needs then the Sports Complex would be the place to go.

TIP: Have a particular interest in a sport? Sign up for a CCA and nurture that interest.

This concludes my list of the 10 awesome places to visit in NYP. If you have different places or facilities in mind, share it in the comments section below. Here is to exploring NYP together!

Keen on joining NYP? Check out Felicia's Top 5 Reasons for Choosing NYP!

By Germaine Leow, PFP

Alongside her interests in writing and photography, Germaine aims to provide the best campus updates during her 4 years in NYP. With a Mass Media Management Diploma waiting for her at the end of her polytechnic journey, she promised herself to never forget the importance of hard work, for God gives the hardest battles to his strongest soldiers.

As an avid gamer, Muhammad Azri Zulhilmi Bin Giman aspired to be a game designer. “NYP was the obvious choice for me, it is well-known for its Diploma in Digital Game Art & Design,” comments Azri.

Thanks to the NYPFP, Azri was able to have a taste of polytechnic education ahead of his ‘N’ Level peers who decided to continue with their ‘O’ Level examinations. This gave him a head start when it came to acquiring skills and knowledge required for the course. “I was able to learn basic drawing techniques such as rendering and composition,” says Azri. “These foundation skills gave me an added advantage when I started Year 1 as I was able to perform better than most of my course mates.”

Besides the technical skills acquired during his time in NYPFP, Azri has also learnt essential soft skills like teamwork and time management. “There are hardly any deadlines in secondary school, but it’s different in polytechnic,” says Azri. “You have to learn how to manage deadlines by being responsible about how you spend your time.”

Upon graduation, Azri hopes to pursue a degree in Game Design and urges those who are considering the PFP to chase their dreams. “Choosing where to go next [after your ‘N’ Levels] is a huge decision, but they should always go for the best,” says Azri. “I highly recommend NYP for its conducive learning environment and helpful lecturers.”

Published in the Jan 2016 Issue of Teenage Magazine. Reproduced with Permission.

With a combined effort, we can achieve more this is what Synergy taught me. This year, NYP Adventure Club (ADC) held the 9th edition of Synergy – NYP Adventure Race on 16 January 2016. Participating members had to form teams of 3 each with at least a member from the opposite gender, and complete a set of challenges at 10 checkpoints around Singapore. The total distance we had to cover was 25km!

Hafiz from ADC, briefing the participants

Being someone who likes to be adventurous, I decided to take part in this event. Our team was unique as we did not know each other initially; we were put together as we did not have any team and hence the first challenge we faced was getting to know each other well. Luckily, prior to the race, ADC had prepared a Synergy workshop to equip participants with the essential skills needed for the race - namely rock climbing and navigation with a compass. This gave us an idea of what to expect from the race and also a chance to bond and learn about each other’s limitations and strengths!

On the day of the race itself, we were required to surrender all our wallets and mobile phones to ensure none of us cheated by taking public transport, and only one member is allowed to have his or her mobile phone for contact in case of emergency.

Another rule was that each team must reach Checkpoint 6 before 3pm or face disqualification.

Our very first challenge, sprinting to get the map

The race started at 10 am, so each team only had 5 hours to reach Checkpoint 6. Every team had to clear a checkpoint before being given a map to the next checkpoint. Some checkpoints were very far apart and the closest one was at least few bus stops away!

Looking at our map

Checkpoint 1: Our task was to find 4 pictures hidden in the Singapore Discovery Centre, count the number of berets on display (there were 97, our team made a few guesses before getting it right), and lastly to kayak 3 laps. Many teams got stuck at this checkpoint.

Trying to find the next checkpoint

Checkpoint 2: We were required to stack 13 boxes on our teammate’s hand (only one hand) and balance it for 10 seconds. This task was frustrating and mentally challenging and we (and other teams) faced countless failures.

Stacking 13 boxes and balancing them with one hand is not as easy as it seems. It requires not just steady hands, but team work and patience

Checkpoint 3: This checkpoint was hidden in Jurong Park, and it was also 2 MRT stations away from Checkpoint 2, and we were unlucky to have been caught in the rain while making our way there, we literally ran in the rain! The task for this checkpoint was to cycle through the park connectors to arrive at Checkpoint 4, which was the Chinese Pagoda.

Cycling through park numerous park connectors was also part of the race

Checkpoint 4: The given task was to take pictures of Chinese characters on the iconic statues around the park. Due to time constraint, my team agreed to share pictures with another team to enable both teams to complete the task in the shortest possible time. The worst part of this task was climbing up 7 storeys to submit our pictures and if our pictures were wrong we had to do the task all over again. Luckily for us, our collaboration with the other team paid off and we completed the task with just one attempt.

Checkpoint 5: This was rock climbing and my team was able to clear it fast as we had some experience in this challenge. We were later given a map to the next checkpoint, and at that time we only had 30 mins left! We were shocked at the distance we had to travel on foot. Nevertheless we ran as fast as we could across several bus stops.

Wouldn't be an Adventure Race without rock climbing

We finally reached Checkpoint 6 after much running. The task at this checkpoint was batting. However, much to our disappointment, we did not make it in time as we were 15 minutes late. We "collapsed" on the spot as we were really tired. We were then offered food and bicycles, and cycled our way back to the end point at SIM University.

Here are the other checkpoints that we did not get to complete:

Kayaking was also part of the race

Checkpoint 7: Dragon Boat racing to cover a certain distance. Teams could choose to go in threes or wait for another team to arrive and combine forces.

Checkpoint 8: Complete a puzzle, deposit your bikes, and smell an array of soaps from our sponsor, and take a blind soap test to identify a soap piece.

Checkpoint 9 - Climb up 40 storeys, and find the ADC flag, then get the map to the end point at SIM University.

It was quite a disappointment when we reached the end point with the "Finish" sign as a disqualified team but nevertheless we were very happy that each and every one of us put in our very best effort and overcame the barriers to reach Checkpoint 6.

The joy of completing 25 km at Synergy

My teammate, Toh Jun Ren, Diploma in Electrical Engineering with Eco Design, from the NYP Track team said: "This race requires problem solving, decision making and working together as a team. It really tests many aspects of your teamwork and it’s not just endurance."

Our Team - Team NJC - (from left) Jun Ren, Naseha and me

"Overcoming my poor stamina and keeping up with my team members was quite a challenge for me," said my other teammate, Nur Naseha from Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences. "But we overcame it with good communication. The race checkpoints were not only physically challenging but also mentally challenging. It requires a lot of endurance, patience and discipline."

Overall, Synergy 2016 has been a great experience for me. I learnt that not only do I need to be physically prepared, but also mentally prepared to to deal with frustration and failures along the way.

I certainly am going back for Synergy next year stronger and faster. To anyone who wants to participate, I would like to leave you with this quote:
RUN if you can, WALK if you have to, CRAWL if you must, but just NEVER GIVE UP - Dean Karnazes

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By Christopher Teo Yu Yuan, Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry

A smile is a curve that sets things straight.

Never be afraid to try. Even if we fail, there is no better way to live. Continue to pursue to what you truly love to do. Christopher is living life seeking for thrills and hopes to be able to use science to save lives and bring hope to other people.

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A big welcome to all freshmen entering their first year at Nanyang Polytechnic! Choosing a polytechnic pathway will see some very different and new changes in your life. The “freedom” that you will have in Poly may also lead you to a false sense of security, which will change when you are suddenly besieged with due dates. So to avoid these unpleasant surprises, here are 7 common mistakes made by freshmen and how to avoid them.

Not attending Freshmen Orientation

Before lessons begin, every School in NYP will have its very own Freshmen Orientation organised by the respective student committees. Although attending the orientation is compulsory, some freshmen still do not attend it. Apart from getting to know your course mates better, the orientation also introduces you to campus life and its facilities. You certainly do not want to be lost or late for your first lesson. Even if you are the shy or introverted type, understand that attending Freshmen Orientation does no harm. So do join in.

Not mingling around during orientation

Moving on from Secondary School to Polytechnic can be a huge change and chances are, you will not be seeing any familiar faces. Orientation can serve as a platform for you to get to know your course mates and potential project mates. These will be the people who will be there for you during the fun and tough times throughout your 3 years!

Not attending Club Crawl

Club Crawl is an annual event in NYP that showcases the 80+ CCAs NYP has to offer. After all, campus life is not just about academics and having a CCA can make your Poly life more interesting and help you when you apply for a university programme. Even if you think you know what you want, who knows what other CCAs may offer and attract you at Club Crawl? There are also amazing performances by various CCA groups and they are really worth it to watch and enjoy.

Not preparing material needed for school early

Before the term starts, there will be a list of materials that you will need to get for your year ahead, such as, lab coats for School of Chemical and Life Sciences courses or design materials for School of Design courses, and even Laptops or formal wear for presentations. One piece of advice is to get these materials as early as possible for they run out very fast. Lecture notes will most likely be available on blackboard a week before lessons start, so do get them printed as early as possible to avoid the long queue at the printing shops in NYP!

Not finishing tutorial assignments

In NYP, although exams constitute a big portion of our Grade Point Average (GPA), tutorials do affect our GPA too. It is highly likely that during lessons there will be tutorial assignments and worksheets that need to be handed up for grading. Not handing up the assignments on time or at all can adversely affect your GPA.

Bad time management

It is very easy for freshmen to forget time management due to the new found “freedom” they have in Poly. Assignment due next month? Lots of time? This can be disastrous when you find yourself having too many assignments due at the same time, and you have barely begun doing them.
To prevent this, you need to know that while it is important to have a balanced lifestyle in Poly, do not chew off more than what you can bite. For example, don’t sign up for too many events and always remember to complete your important and urgent work first. Plan your schedule carefully.

Not organizing academic materials

This is a very common mistake among freshmen - not organizing notes or tutorial materials well. In NYP, semestral exam topics can be found in most of the notes, and certain modules even test practical knowledge on paper. Most freshmen usually throw their lab and tutorials sheets when they are done. When exams are just around the corner, they will be frantically searching for these sheets to study.
To prevent this, get assorted files for every module and file the notes and sheets accordingly. When exams are around the corner, at least everything is easily retrievable.

Remember that balance is the key in a fulfilling and vibrant Poly life. Your Orientation Group Leaders and Personal Mentors will be here to guide you, so do not hesitate to approach any of them for help.

By Christopher Teo Yu Yuan, Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry

A smile is a curve that sets things straight.

Never be afraid to try. Even if we fail, there is no better way to live. Continue to pursue to what you truly love to do. Christopher is living life seeking thrills and hopes to be able to use science to save lives and bring hope to other people.

From left: Greg and myself

I have known Thng Geng Chen (more commonly known as Greg, Gregory or Fat Greg) for almost two years. I have played a lot of online games with him and I still do. Although he is leaving NYP just as I’m starting my first year here, he has given me a king’s fortune worth of insights on the day to day affairs of an SIT (School of Information Technology) student. Although he is not a star student in terms of his GPA, his stories have given me an unfiltered image of what polytechnic life holds for me.

Greg mainly plays MMORPGs and FPS online games. We play them with a close group of friends with diverse backgrounds. When he plays with us, he brings his usual dose of satirical cheer and crude humour, which I personally find somewhat Shakespearean in nature. Even while joking around, he still finds time to offer a close listening ear to anyone’s problems and lends his invaluable support.

In the past, I had wondered how he kept his personality as shiny as his bowl-cut hairstyle and as full as his figure, but I later realized that it was his attitude to life that makes it as such. Greg does not care about a lot of things. As a result, he has less to worry or be sad about. Although he admits to neglecting his studies, he has not dwelled much on it. This has shone a guiding light for me, as I can now decide how to traverse my life and conquer its obstacles.

On his graduation day, I interviewed him on the top 5 things he’ll miss most about NYP.

#1 Friends

Greg: Well, one thing’s for sure, I’ll miss the friends. You’ve been seeing them every day for three years and suddenly not seeing them anymore, it’s a bit sad. However, a new door awaits. I mean, after this, I’ll be waiting for my enlistment letter and hope that NS will be a good two years of my life, so I’m really looking forward to that. Graduation was really a relief as well, after three years, I didn’t fail anything.

Me: Are there any people you’ll especially miss?

Greg: There is actually one, my course-mate Jeremy. Jeremy is overall a really nice person. He has helped me in many difficult moments, like when I couldn’t cope with studies and family issues, he was really there all the way. There’s also course-mate Stephanie, but when I think about it, there’s also so many other people that I’ll miss. Stephanie cried today as it was the last day of school, and we were all consoling her and throwing her tissue packets. I’ll really miss that side of her. Luckily, I’ll still be able to meet up with all of them after this. I don’t think any of us has plans to travel overseas for university.

#2 Food

Greg: During my time in NYP, there’s this couple that I’ll always miss from the snack stall in Koufu. They’re the couple that sells prata rolls opposite the drinks stall.

Me: Prata rolls? I’m not sure if I’ve noticed them.

Greg: Well, they’re something that I’ll really miss. That was the place to get snack food, food on the go. When you’re really hungry, you can leave the lecture hall (me: don’t do that) and go there to buy food. It’s really great comfort food. I ate it at least once a week.

Me: That’s why you look like this.

Greg: They’re not really fattening, they’re hotdogs, and hotdogs are quite healthy. The lady at the stall, she always had some great green chili that I loved. I would always ask for it.

Greg: Another kind of food I’ll miss is the one dollar chicken nuggets at the South Canteen. They’re sold at the Malay food stall. No matter when you come for them, they’re always nice and fresh. It’s only a dollar for five nuggets.

#3 Lecturers

Greg: One other thing I’ll miss are the lecturers! One of the lecturer’s I’ll miss is Dr Koh Noi Sian, from SIT and Ms Liz Weng. She hasn’t formally taught me, but she’s a really nice teacher. Even though we’re not in her class, she always offers her help to us. These two teachers are really memorable. For example, Dr Koh taught me math related concepts from Year 2 onwards. She always has this smile on her face and is a really nice person overall. She also attained her PhD before the age of 30.

Dr Koh Noi Sian

#4 Facilities

Me: What about facilities?

Greg: The gym for me was not really up to standard, but I haven’t seen the new gym. Before you came in, there was another gym at the sports hall. Now there’s a new one called Bodywatch at T-Junction. I haven’t been there yet.

Me: I’ve been going there, it’s nice.

Greg: You are lucky in terms of facilities. Everything was under renovation when I was in Year 1. The Cheers outlet was not where it is today. It was at a place called the Arcade. Cheers used to be there, it was small and crowded. There was also a bookstore there, before Popular. It was great because it also sold different kinds of snacks. If you got bored of the ones Cheers sold, you could go there. There were tubes of flavoured honey. They were only fifty cents each. It also sold other hard to find snacks.

Me: Are there any other facilities you’ll miss?

Greg: The Block L printing shop. The lady there has a perpetual attitude, even when you give her business. I also regret not using the swimming pool. After training at NYP for NAPFA - which I failed, my classmates would suggest going for a swim but I never got around to doing it.

Me: What’s the fifth thing you’ll miss?

Greg: This is a hard one.

Me: Say anything, I’ll find a way to fit it in.

#5 Catering

Greg: This may sound strange, but when NYP has events, there is always catering. They order food from the North and South canteens, so one of the amazing things they have is the chocolate éclairs. There will be appetizers, main courses and all but the first thing to vanish is the chocolate éclairs. It’s really the best thing there. The food is also always just placed along the corridor. Sometimes, even the lecturers will call us to help ourselves and help finish up the food. Sadly, if they say that there’s no éclairs left, we would be reluctant to go. The éclairs and drinks are great, who doesn’t like sugared water?

Final Thoughts

Me: Is there any advice you can give to those who have yet to graduate?

Greg: Don’t make the mistakes I made, I played so many online games that my GPA was almost impossible to salvage, but I managed to pull a 1.6 up to a 2.2. Do your tutorials and do well for your tests, everything is very important.

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Greg

Closing off this article, I would like to thank Greg for being my friend for so long and would like to wish him all the best for his next two years of National Service and future life.

By Matthew Ho, Year 1, Diploma in Cyber Security and Forensics

The Early Admissions Exercise* (EAE) allows students to secure their polytechnic education even before sitting for their GCE ‘O’ Level examinations. We speak to Jasmine Ow Shi Min from School of Health Sciences and How Kai-Wen Kevin from School of Information Technology about how they successfully got a head start to their future in Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP), and how it has benefited them.

Jasmine Ow Shi Min
Joined NYP via DPA
Diploma in Social Sciences (Social Work)
Alumna, Riverside Secondary School

A bright student with a go-getter attitude, Jasmine Ow Shi Min set her sights on the Diploma in Social Sciences (Social Work) at NYP. “I was confident that the school would value both academic and non-academic performances and development. I managed to secure a place in the course, right even before [sitting for my] ‘O’ Levels!” And her decision paid off. “Compared to my peers, sitting for my ‘O’ Level exams was not as stressful because I had secured a place in my dream course in NYP via DPA. Getting the NYP Scholarship further opened doors to many other opportunities and experiences that honed my interpersonal and communications skills.”

Throughout her course, Jasmine not only became an NYP scholarship recipient – she was groomed for leadership roles, and she also participated in enriching programmes and events that gave her valuable insights to her future line of work. “As a member of the Community Service Club, I had the opportunity to interact with different age groups which is important to [my job] in the future.” She added, “If you know which course you are passionate about, do not hesitate to apply through the EAE to secure a place!”

How Kai-Wen Kevin
Joined NYP via DPA
Diploma in Information Security
Alumnus, Bowen Secondary School

A trip to the NYP Open House was all it took for Kevin How to decide on enrolling in NYP’s Diploma in Information Security. “NYP is widely regarded to be the leading poly for IT studies,” Kevin shared, “I found the environment to be very conducive. The lecturers were really friendly and approachable. All these, coupled with my interest in IT security, made it an easy decision for me.” Thus he decided to score a spot in the course even before sitting for his ‘O’ Level examinations via DPA.

During his three years in NYP, he became the Vice President of the ISACA Student Group and also actively participated in prestigious IT competitions. Kevin concluded, “I have made lots of friends with common interests in information security at NYP. In fact, I love my NYP experience so much that I joined a CCA that organises events to promote my course to secondary school students! The learning environment in NYP has made me an all-rounder in technical skills, project management and presentation skills.”

*With effect from 2016, EAE will replace the former Direct Polytechnic Admission (DPA) Exercise and the Joint Polytechnic Special Admissions Exercise (JPSAE).

Visit EAE Centre @ NYP and find out more about the 46 exciting courses offered! There are also talks offered daily, where you can get tips on how to write your 600-character summary, or learn more about the various scholarships available. No registration required, so come on down!

EAE Centre @ NYP
Venue: Nanyang Polytechnic, NYP Lounge, Blk A, Level 3
Dates & Time: 22-24, 27, 28 June: 2pm-5pm and 29 June: 2pm-4pm

Published in the June 2016 Issue of Teenage Magazine. Reproduced with Permission

SIDM Movie Night is an annual affair for the alumni and current students of NYP’s School of Interactive and Digital Media (SIDM). This year’s event was held on 20th May 2016, at Shaw Theatres Lido. A total of 455 alumni from the Class of 2000 to 2016 attended the event!

I had the privilege of attending this year’s get-together with my fellow Write Stuff teammate, Jess Poh. The movie screened was X-men: Apocalypse. This event was a great opportunity for the alumni to catch up with their old friends and lecturers, as well as to do some networking with the current SIDM students.

The collection of the movie tickets, with complimentary popcorn and drinks, started at 8.30pm. The atmosphere was very relaxed as students and lecturers alike caught up with each other. There was also a palpable buzz of excitement in the air as the guests looked forward to the action packed movie ahead of them.

The first pair of alumni interviewed were Hazel Natto and Jonathan Hwang, who were both chatting animatedly with one of their old lecturers. They both graduated in 2009 with a Diploma in Digital Media and Design. When asked about their reasons for attending the SIDM Movie Night, both of them told us that “It’s fun and a great chance to catch up with friends, juniors and lecturers to see how they’re doing.”

Jonathan also proudly added that he has been attending the SIDM movie night every year, and it’s likely that he would return for next year’s event. Jonathan is currently running his own business doing online retailing and web development.

“This event is also a good opportunity for networking,” he added.

Jonathan and Hazel

Next we spoke to Melissa Ho, who graduated in 2014 with a Diploma in Animation. She attends SIDM Movie night because “it’s cheap and good” and “a fantastic opportunity to socialise with friends and teachers, as well as to watch a cool new movie”.

She too has attended previous SIDM movie nights and like Jonathan, has turned up every year to catch up with her friends. She is currently employed at Oglivy & Mather and when asked if she had any advice to give to the current SIDM students, she replied: “Work hard and enjoy your time in school.”

Last but not least we had Karmen Chian, who graduated in 2013 with a Diploma in Digital Media Design (Games). She attended the gathering for the movie and this was her first time attending the event. She found the event fun and entertaining, and has also managed to catch up with her lecturers. She’s currently studying at Digipen and doing an internship at Landshark games.

“Poly life is easy, but the outside world is tough!” she lamented.

From left: Karmen and her friend

Before the movie started, Director of SIDM, Mr Daniel Tan, gave a succinct speech to thank all the alumni for coming. He also took the time to welcome some visitors from Thailand, who were in Singapore on an exchange programme, to the event before giving the signal to start the movie screening.

X-men Apocalypse is a rip-roaring tale full of action and adventure, and the plot revolves around a bunch of untrained mutants with potent superpowers who fight against an ancient megalomaniac from ancient Egypt who was resurrected and has plans to ‘cleanse’ the world. I was blown away by the spectacular visual effects and I enjoyed the explosive fight scenes immensely.

A 360-degree photo of all the alumni, VIPs, guests, and family members at Alumni Movie Night 2016

It was really heart-warming to see so many alumni still keeping in touch with NYP. I am honoured to have had the opportunity to attend such an event and many thanks to those who worked hard to make sure that the night was a success.

By Brina Lim, Diploma in Molecular biotechnology

Brina is a second year student in the Molecular Biotechnology course, and her hobbies include reading and writing. She is an avid fan of Jodi Picoult’s books and has loved the Harry Potter series since she was a child. She enjoys reading news about England’s royal family and finds a role model in Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. Her favourite artiste is Taylor Swift and her dream vacation would be in London, touring the museums, visiting the Buckingham palace and spending time beside the river Thames.

Sock Hong on her graduation day

Most secondary 4 and 5 students would look forward to a long holiday after finishing their ‘O’ levels, but this does not apply to students who applied for Direct Polytechnic Admission (DPA) before their ‘O’ levels.

One such student who had chosen this route is Seah Sock Hong, who graduated from NYP this year with a Diploma in Molecular Biotechnology with Merit. She is also a bioMeriux gold medal winner and one of the top students in her course. Sock Hong has chosen to enter polytechnic through the DPA route as it guarantees her a spot even before her ‘O’ levels and hence she felt that she was under less pressure during her examination.

She chose to take up the Diploma in Molecular Biotechnology (DMB) as she has always been passionate about science, and has liked it since primary school. Sock Hock believes that all knowledge of science cannot be attained from just textbooks, and that a polytechnic will provide real life experiences through practical lessons and internship. NYP’s DMB caught her eye as she is fascinated by biology, genes and DNA.

Ironically, she wasn’t a biology student back in secondary school and did not know what DNA stood for. But fortunately, under the DPA Polytechnic Preparatory Programme, she had a head start and was exposed to various lessons that helped to broaden her knowledge.

During orientation camp at NYP, Sock Hong also got to know students from different Schools. These people have also become her best friends in NYP, and she could count on them emotionally whenever she faced any difficulties.

Juggling Commitments

On top of managing her studies and co-curricular activities, Sock Hong was also challenged with additional responsibilities such as chairing community projects like the Senior Citizens’ Party with Thye Hua Kuan Moral Society and the Science Carnival at Children Cancer Society in 2015.

Even during school holidays, she was busy helping out with many other programmes and events. These sometimes clashed with her lesson timings resulting in her missing out in a lot of school work, and she would need to work doubly hard to catch up with the help of her lecturers and classmates.

Sock Hong also need to make necessary sacrifices to make time for her more important tasks at hand, such as quitting certain CCAs when she knew she could not cope. No matter how well she planned, there were times that she could not make it for training days. Despite that she still managed to be part of the floorball school team and even represented NYP in the POL-ITE tournament.

However, she does not see these commitments as a burden, but rather an opportunity for her to reach out to the young and old, and help her School in any way she can.

I was astounded at how busy and packed her schedule was. When I asked how she managed so many tasks, she explained that it all boils down to time management for efficiency and making some necessary sacrifices on less important matters. All in all, time is important to her and what she wants is to manage time well and not waste any of it.

Life in NYP however was not a bed of roses for Sock Hong. She stated that she has failed countless practicals in lab and even during her internship days. She remembered that bioinformatics was tough for her as she had to understand IT, therefore she listens attentively in class and follows every single step her lecturer has taught. During her internship, whenever she conducted an unsuccessful experiment, she was required to re-do it time and time again.

Dealing with failures is never easy, Sock Hong mentioned that the first step to improving oneself is to admit the failure and your part in it instead of blaming it on others. She also commented that she was always open to advice and will actively seek it from lecturers, mentors or supervisors, as they are able to guide her better through experience.

Sock Hong has shared with us a piece of advice: “In NYP, embark on a journey and learn as much as you can.”

And for future EAE students, she encourages them to choose wisely and choose a route that best fits themselves!

From 2016, EAE has replaced the DPA route, and successful applicants are no longer required to go through the Polytechnic Preparatory Programme. Instead, they will begin school at the same time with students from the JAE route.

By Christopher Teo Yu Yuan, Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry

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WorldSkills Singapore will be held from 7 to 9 July. Also known as the Youth Olympics of Skills, this prestigious event showcases talents in diverse skill areas such as cooking, mechatronics, and graphic design technology. With the event coming up soon, I interviewed two promising competitors who are participating in the Restaurant Service skill area for the very first time.

The skill area requires competitors to identify a range of liqueurs, wines and spirits by sight and smell, mix and serve alcoholic beverages, prepare a range of coffees, dress and set up tables, prepare mise-en-place and folding of napkins, perform carving and tableside cooking, amidst other tasks.

Meet Quek Tian Cheng and Kuah Guo Shan, Diploma in Food & Beverage Business students who were cheerful and eager to answer my questions. We discussed their preparation for the event.

Quek Tian Cheng

Tell us a bit about yourself before we begin

Hi, I’m Tian Cheng. I joined WorldSkills because I thought it would be fun.

NYP has been doing well in past competitions. Do you feel pressured?

The pressure I feel from this is not really pressure from peers and coaches, it is more from myself. I’m constantly pushing myself to work harder and improve because I want to know that I have tried and given my best.

This is the first year NYP is competing in Restaurant Service and Cooking. How do you feel about being amongst the first competitors in this skill area?

Initially, I had seniors who had participated in WorldSkills so I did not worry too much, but after I found out that none of them had participated in the Restaurant Service and Cooking skill areas, I was quite shocked and felt even more pressured. But it makes me want to give my best even more.

Since you are unable to learn from previous competitors, how have you been preparing?

Actually, there is quite a lot of support given. NYP has called one of my seniors back to help coach us. She has also participated in a related WorldSkills category and has a lot of experience to share. She has taught us many things including napkin folds which may seem unimportant.

Is there any advice you can give to people hoping to compete in WorldSkills?

The best advice I can give is to keep working hard. No matter what the outcome is, you know that you have given your best, and that itself makes you a winner.

Kuah Guo Shan

Tell us a bit about yourself before we begin.

Hi I’m Guo Shan, 19 years old. In the Food &Beverage Business course, I had the chance to choose between the cooking and business specialisation and, I chose the latter. This option touches more on managing a restaurant, front of house service and ordering.

This is quite a prestigious event, and NYP has been doing well in past competitions. Do you feel pressured?

Of course! I think a certain kind of pressure is good. The pressure given now is not too much but enough to motivate me to do better. Currently I feel fine and am managing well.

I feel that NYP has its own way of doing things that is different from other polytechnics, and provides more hands on experience. It encourages teamwork through team projects, and also encourages us to be more innovative in our assignments.

This is the first year that NYP is competing in Restaurant Service and Cooking. How do you feel about being amongst the first competitors in this skill area?

I actually feel quite honoured to be among the first from NYP to compete in this area. I know a senior who is a Worldskills gold medalist but he’s from ITE. He has given me useful pointers and I’m really grateful for that. I feel that we are setting the benchmark for the next set of competitors. Whether we win or lose, I want to help NYP make an impression during the competition.

So you’re saying this is about leaving a legacy?

Yes, something like that.

I’m glad there is immense support for you. How have you been preparing?

I’m really glad to have lecturers who helped us prepare the ingredients and equipment needed. Sometimes they did it out of their own pockets. They bought us wine and vinegar required for the competition, and are also helping us to train properly.

Do you mind sharing their names with us?

They are Mr Karthik Bakthavathsalem, Mr Paul Singh Gill and Chef Jek Ralphael.

Is there any advice you can give to people hoping to compete in WorldSkills?

It’s mostly about being mentally prepared. Since we are going for the competition soon, time management and commitment are very important. Being mentally prepared is one of the highest priorities. No matter how much you practice, if you’re not mentally prepared, most of your effort will go down the drain.

So are you mentally prepared?

Yes. I’ve done some mental training myself. I picture myself doing what I need to do, many people looking at me and managing myself there.

Anything you would like to add?

Good luck to all the other NYP WorldSkills competitors! I hope we will do NYP and ourselves proud.
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Be sure to give our competitors some support if you see them!

By Matthew Ho, Year 1, Diploma in Cyber Security and Forensics

Dominic Lee

Dominic Lee and Sabrina Chong will be facing a tough challenge. From 7 to 9 July, they will be competing in the finals of WorldSkills Singapore, a nation-wide skills competition for Singaporean youth who excel in technical skills. The two Diploma in Food & Beverage Business students will be amongst the pioneer team of NYP students to compete in the Cooking category - a new skill area for NYP. Unlike students participating in categories like Health & Social Care and CNC Milling, Dominic and Sabrina have no predecessors to learn from. However, this disadvantage has not fazed them, and they are determined to prove their passion and prowess in culinary arts.

As competitors, Dominic and Sabrina will have to cook up a three course menu from a mystery basket, and a four course menu comprising a tiramisu cake deconstruction and other items. They will also need to pay attention to mise en place, finishing and presentation.

Things were not always a clear and straight path for them both, as they were previously students from different diploma courses. Dominic Lee was studying Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in Ngee Ann Polytechnic before he made the switch to NYP.

When questioned about his decision, he said: “My parents did not approve of it, but I just went for it, because I knew it was something I wanted to do. I was working part-time in a kitchen, and felt the excitement of cooking. Preparing dishes during peak hour gives me a thrill that I have not experienced before.”

Sabrina Chong

Sabrina Chong, who first chose Pharmaceutical Science in NYP, knew that she wanted to learn more about the culinary field since her first year.

“My mum knew I was not keen in my previous course, and asked me if I wanted to change course. But I told her that I would continue for a year before I made any decision,” said Sabrina. “After a year, I decided to take the big step and just pursue my passion.”

Dominic and Sabrina are currently in their final year. They have no regrets switching courses and are also confident about themselves. They believe that their strong work ethics and attention to details will help them to do well in Worldskills.

Sabrina’s dream is to learn from great chefs and hopefully specialise in catering for private events. She also hopes to pass on her wisdom to other aspiring chefs in the future. Dominic aspires to open a fine dining restaurant in Singapore, and looks forward to showcasing his craft to diners.

The duo are looking forward to learning from other chefs and testing their skills at WorldSkills Singapore next week. We wish them all the very best!

By Nasruddin Islam Bin Ramli, Diploma in Electronics, Computer & Communications Engineering

Khairull’s gaming setup at home

Hardworking, motivated, ambitious.

These are three words I would use to describe second-year Diploma in Mass Media Management student, Khairull Hafidz – an aspiring pro-gamer.

The 21-year-old’s ambitions started way back to when he got his first game – “Beyblade” on the PlayStation 1 (PS1).

“I got Beyblade for free on the PS1. It was loads of fun, and as it was free, I didn’t complain,” recounts Khairull.

His favourite games included the likes of Halo Reach, a strategic first-person shooter game, and Dota 2, which requires strategy, patience and making tough decisions on-the-go. Together, he has spent thousands of hours playing both titles – a statement in itself of how much he appreciates games of this genre.

With so much time committed to gaming, how does he manage to juggle his hobby with his studies?

Khairull does this by prioritising his studies. He does not go out much, and that leaves his weekends relatively free – another opportunity for him to delve deep into his passion. Khairull balances both work and play by studying during the week and gaming over the weekend. During exam periods, he reduces his gaming to a bare minimum.

From left: Khairull and myself

However, things were not as smooth-sailing when he first started out in gaming.

Khairull’s grades suffered in primary and secondary school – with the latter being the most affected and he ended up not doing well for his ‘O’ Levels.

When he joined ITE, he managed to find a balance between study and play. Unlike secondary school, lessons were not tightly scheduled together in ITE, and soon, he found it much easier to excel in his studies and indulge in his hobby.

After obtaining his Higher NITEC certificate, he enrolled in Nanyang Polytechnic, where he continued to excel in his studies, consistently maintaining a GPA of above 3.2.

People often view gaming in a negative light due to its addictive nature, but Khairull begs to differ.

“Gaming is so much more than what people think. Gaming teaches you many things – from critical thinking and strategic skills to hand-eye coordination. I’ve also made many great friends from gaming online, which is a nice thing!” Khairull enthuses, adding that people who are quick to criticize gaming do not understand what it is all about.

Khairull also strives to work towards pursuing gaming as a profession.

“Those professional gamers who participate in major tournaments can potentially earn thousands or even millions of dollars depending on how prestigious the competition is,” he says.

He is taking solid steps towards becoming a pro-gamer by gaming whenever he has the time in the hope that he will reach the levels of his idols, and in the process attract the attention of numerous sponsors.

As for now, however, studies take precedence as constant gaming will not earn him good grades in school.

From struggling with his studies and gaming to excelling in both today, Khairull’s journey has been nothing but inspirational.

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By Michael Evan Teo, Diploma in Mass Media Management

Michael Evan Teo is a Year Two student pursuing the Diploma in Mass Media Management at Nanyang Polytechnic. He is very passionate about film, music and comic books. In his free time, he enjoys watching movies, playing football, listening to music from 90s and helping out in church. Currently, Michael has created about six short films and aspires to be a filmmaker when he graduates. He also has his own film blog which reviews movies.

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