Nationality: Singapore
Current Job: Associate Professor, National University of Singapore, Singapore
Graduation: Saw See Hock School of Public Health, Year 2018
Undergraduate: National University of Singapore, Singapore
"Always remember the *why*. Why did you choose to do it? When the going gets tough, its the *why* that keeps you going."
In retrospect, would you still have chosen to do a PhD? Why?
If the journey ain’t tough, the results ain’t sweet. The thought of doing a PhD will always be daunting, but if we don’t lose track of the end goals, then all obstacles can be overcome. The benefits of a PhD is not just the knowledge and skill accrual, but also getting to know your tutors/supervisors who are possibly going to be your collaborators and co-investigators in future.
On hindsight, would you still have chosen NUS to do your PhD?
There is no better place than NUS to do a PhD. It is one of the top universities in the world, and the faculty are superb. Singapore is a safe place to study, stay and venture. For Singaporeans, there is no better place than Singapore.
On hindsight, would you have chosen the same research topic for your PhD?
My research topic is related to my professional career as a medical doctor and surgeon. I did it because I believe that its a pertinent problem/issue that require more work. I might even expand on the topic!
On hindsight, would you have chosen the same research supervisor for your PhD?
Gerald is not just a supervisor but a close mentor and friend for life. It’s not the science/knowledge that is important at this stage of life. It’s the awareness that someone will be there to support you that is integral.
How did NUS prepare you for your career?
I was already part of NUS before I took up PhD. I am already a established surgeon as well. What it means is that NUS enables and facilitates further education for all their staff.
How did your experiences as a graduate student shape and guide you in your current career?
It opens up numerous opportunities and connections in this field of “public health” and “health services research”.
Suggest 2 or 3 things that graduate students should do to prepare for their professional careers?
Be Adaptable.
Have a mindset like a child. When a child starts to walk, they will struggle as they try to do what they haven’t achieved yet. But they try and try, cry sometimes but eventually succeed. They do not judge others by their colours, talent, background but befriend everyone and treat everyone the same in their own ways. Ironically, adulthood changes all that. We are fearful to fail, early to judge.
Name 2-3 things you wished you had been told when you started graduate school?
If its easy, everyone would have done it.
Once u get in, its just about putting in the hard work, most people get out.
What advice would you give someone considering doing his/her PhD at NUS?
I cant think of a better place. The environment is superb. The faculty is world class.
Briefly share something fun in your graduate journey at NUS that you remember.
I need to go back and operate on a sick patient during class. My tutor looked at me with bewildered eyes and couldn’t believe that a surgeon was attending her classes.
Any other words of wisdom to share?
Always remember the *why*. Why did you choose to do it? When the going gets tough, its the *why* that keeps you going.