SP alumni, Kennard Tay, SP Engineering Scholar

Reflecting on my journey at Singapore Polytechnic (SP), I am filled with gratitude for the transformative experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. When I first began, I was overwhelmed with doubts and uncertainty about my path ahead. However, as time went on, I was presented with numerous opportunities that allowed me to grow personally, academically, and professionally. Engaging with peers, mentors, and the community helped me discover my passion for teaching—a realisation that has guided my aspirations ever since. 

My time at SP has been a crucible for personal growth. I learned the significance of collaboration, effective communication, and resilience. I was challenged to push beyond my limits and strive for excellence. SP not only allowed me to develop my technical skills in Aerospace Electronics but also helped me hone vital soft skills. The supportive community fostered an environment where I could thrive, encouraging me to take on leadership roles that tested my capabilities, boosted my confidence, and allowed me to give back to the school. 

In Year 2, I served as the Events and Welfare Head of the SP Outstanding Talents (SPOT) Club, which provided a platform to enhance my soft skills. This role taught me adaptability as I worked with my team to develop online events in response to the pandemic. In Year 3, I was honored to be the Vice-President of the School of EEE Student Ambassadors and to lead the School of EEE Freshman Orientation Program (EEE FOP) 2021 as the Organizing Chairman. These experiences were pivotal in developing my leadership skills, as I guided various committees to execute successful events. Serving as a Student Advisor for the EEE FOP 2022 allowed me to refine my mentoring and coaching abilities, as I helped my juniors execute a successful orientation program. 

My involvement in community service was another cornerstone of my SP experience. As a peer tutor, I found fulfillment in helping my classmates succeed, and it was incredibly rewarding to see my tutees improve. Additionally, my role as a befriender with Lions Befrienders enabled me to connect with elderly individuals living alone, where I experienced the joy of engaging in meaningful conversations and assisting them with daily tasks. Returning to my secondary school as a Primer in The Boys’ Brigade was equally meaningful, as I had the opportunity to mentor my juniors and watch them grow into responsible leaders. With the support of the SPOT Executive Committee, I felt empowered to initiate the SPOT X Lakeside Family Services community service project, where our students volunteered in the WeCanRead and kidsRead programs for a semester. Through these experiences, I learned that volunteering is about giving a little of my time to make a significant difference in both my life and the lives of others. 

Working on the Smart Inline Inspection Station project at the Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre (ARTC) challenged me to apply my classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. I gained invaluable insights into automating processes, which sharpened my technical skills and highlighted the importance of teamwork and effective problem-solving. Participating in the International Standards Olympiad was another highlight of my SP experience; our team's collaboration and quick thinking earned us a Gold Award. 

The EDGE Programme was instrumental in my development as a scholar. The support I received from mentors throughout my time at SP was invaluable. Although preparing for scholarship interviews was daunting, I am grateful for the guidance from the EDGE mentors, who helped me navigate challenges and expand my thinking in preparation for various interviews. 

At SP, I forged lifelong friendships with peers who inspired and motivated me. Late-night study sessions and collaborative projects created a strong bond among us, enriching my experience and teaching me the value of teamwork. Together, we celebrated each other’s successes and supported one another through challenges, forming a community that felt like family. 

My aspiration to become an educator was ignited by my experiences as a peer tutor and mentor during my time at SP. As I pursue my undergraduate studies at the National Institute of Education and prepare to embark on my professional journey as an educator, I carry the lessons learned at SP with me. I am excited to inspire the next generation of students, utilizing technology to enhance their learning experiences and instilling in them the same passion for holistic development and learning that I discovered at SP. 

In conclusion, I am deeply grateful for my time at Singapore Polytechnic. The experiences, lessons, and friendships I gained have been pivotal in my development. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my mentors, lecturers, friends, and especially my parents, for their unwavering support throughout my journey.