Sin Yi was a Highly Commended Entrant in the Life Sciences category in 2020.

Since she was awarded by The Global Undergraduate Awards, Sin Yi has graduated with 1st class honours BEng in Bioengineering from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and is currently working as a Regulatory Affairs Executive in the MedTech industry.

What are you doing now and what has happened since the award?

After winning the award for my Undergraduate Research Experience on Campus (URECA) work, I signed up for FYP-URECA as a continuation of my previous URECA research project during my second year of study.

Under the supervision of my formerURECA mentor, I found it easier to get into my stride in my FYP project. My previous works and findings of the project have also provided me with a clearer research direction. However, I did not pursue the research path after I graduated. I chose to enter the workforce to gain industry experience. I am currently working as a full-time Regulatory Affairs Executive in the MedTech industry.

Where do your interests lie?

I love getting involved in outdoor activities, even though I spend most of my day indoors. I like to be close to nature and slow down my pace. I have been in love with the piano since I was a child, although I was the kind of student who does not like practising the piano.

Music is my channel to express my emotions, it can express what words can't express. When I couldn't go home due to the pandemic and my piano was not around me, I bought a digital piano as a graduation gift for myself!

What are your plans/dreams for the future?

As a freshman in the workplace, I'm still exploring the field that suits me best. In addition to seeking a career path that aligns with my values, principles, and beliefs, I also want to find meaning and contribute to my work. I hope what I do allows me to keep learning and thinking beyond traditional ways of thinking. I can imagine a lot of possibilities in my future path, be it career or study. But no matter what, I hope I can fearlessly step out of my comfort zone to explore and discover another self.

Has receiving an award for your hard work helped?

Being selected as a Highly Commended Entrant was beyond my belief at that time as I felt lost in my research direction and had no confidence in my research work. I know this award is not all about my hard work, but also about the guidance and encouragement of my supervisor and mentor. The award became my motivation and greatly enhanced my confidence in completing my final year research project.

Why should students submit their work?

To be honest, I wasn't interested in participating in the first place as I thought the
chances of my work being selected as a winning entry was very low. However, I was persuaded to give it a try, despite my gut telling me it wasn't possible. When I was notified of the award, I could hardly believe it.

So, never underestimate yourself because you really don't know what your limits are. Even if your work is not selected, it does not mean a failure but a valuable learning experience. What are you waiting for?

Submit your entry now!

You can find Sin Yi on LinkedIn