SP alumni, Bryan Chia, Nanyang scholarship and LKY STEP scholarship

Bryan Chia Ming Yang
Diploma in Engineering with Business
Class of 2024

Recipient of
- Nanyang scholarship
- LKY STEP scholarshi

I’ve always lived by the words of my Secondary school’s discipline master: when it is time to study, we study hard, but when it is time to play, we play hard. This belief has guided me throughout my academic journey, allowing me to not only work hard but also enjoy life’s opportunities. Being a scholar isn’t just about studying. It’s about meeting new people, sharing ideas, and learning from each other to grow as individuals. 

Coming from ITE, the academic path wasn’t always smooth, but I’ve always believed in my ability to succeed. Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my friends, lecturers, and family. They constantly encouraged me to embrace every opportunity, and their belief in me played a significant role in shaping who I am today. 

When I first received my N-level results and ended up in ITE, it felt like the lowest point in my life. I not only felt like I had let myself down but also my parents. Even though they never looked down on me, I knew that others might, and that motivated me to change. I didn’t want my failure to affect my family, and from that moment, I committed to excelling both academically and personally. 

The stereotype attached to ITE students was tough to navigate, but instead of letting it drag me down, I used it as motivation to prove my doubters wrong. Through hard work, dedication, and the belief others had in me, I became the top scorer in my cohort at ITE. It was a milestone that showed me the power of perseverance and support from those around me. 

I still remember speaking to my ITE section head about my decision to complete National Service (NS) before entering polytechnic. She was concerned because this wasn’t the usual path, and she worried that I might lose the discipline to continue my studies after NS. However, I was determined and confidently told her, “The fire in me will still be there even after NS.” Throughout my NS journey, I kept that fire alive. Being the youngest in my NS unit, my peers looked after me and ensured I was doing well. 

When I eventually entered Singapore Polytechnic (SP), I found myself in a different position—this time, I was the oldest in my class. As class representative, I took on the responsibility of guiding my classmates, many of whom were also from ITE and adjusting to a new learning environment. I understood the challenges of adapting and worked to create a supportive space where everyone could thrive academically and emotionally. To ensure we stayed on track, I set up weekly to-do lists and regular check-ins, fostering a sense of camaraderie. These experiences not only helped me grow as a leader but also taught me the importance of community and teamwork. I made it a point to "look after" my classmates just as my peers had looked after me during my NS journey. 

Through my hard work and determination, I was given the opportunity to apply for the SP Engineering scholarship and was selected for the interview. I felt incredibly grateful for this chance but was also nervous as it was my first time preparing for a scholarship interview. Thankfully, my lecturers provided me with the preparation and guidance I needed. Even with their support, the pressure was still there. What helped me the most was reflecting on who I am and the values I hold. When I went into the interview, I answered the questions genuinely, from the heart, without overthinking. That shift in mentality—just being true to myself—helped me overcome my nervousness, and I was happy to find out that after the interview, I had successfully gotten the scholarship. 

This recognition filled me with immense gratitude as it symbolised the recognition of my hard work and dedication. Receiving scholarships during my time at SP helped ease my family’s financial burden, giving me the freedom to explore opportunities, including small business ventures. These ventures, though filled with challenges and failures, taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and perseverance. As an aspiring entrepreneur, I’ve learned that setbacks are part of the process, and they only make you stronger. 

Outside academics, I had the privilege of serving as an EEE student ambassador at SP. This leadership role not only helped me grow as a leader but also allowed me to meet new people and form valuable friendships. I was also deeply involved in community service through the Sembawang West Youth Network, organising events for the elderly, low-income families, and youths. I believe in giving back to the community that has given me so much. 

Reflecting on my time at SP, I realise how much I’ve grown as a person and as a leader. The friendships I’ve made, the leadership opportunities I’ve had, and the academic achievements I’ve attained have all contributed to a truly enriching experience. Without the support of my peers, lecturers, and family, my journey at SP wouldn’t have been as fruitful or enjoyable. 

In conclusion, I’m incredibly grateful to SP, my lecturers, and my peers for their support and encouragement throughout my journey. SP provided the platform for me to grow, my lecturers gave me the opportunities and courage to seek out challenges, and my peers offered the moral support I needed during tough times. Thank you, SP, for making this chapter of my life so memorable.