TWENTY-FIVE YEARS HAVE PASSED since the NTI pioneers graduated. The passage of time gives them fresh insights into university education and working life. They have a wealth of tips to share with those on the threshold of university life. Their collective wisdom is gleaned from reflections on career and life over the past 25 years. It can serve as a compass and pre-empt unnecessary detours for young ones at the crossroads of life.

FIRE UP YOUR INTEREST WITH PASSION

There is the need for passion in your choice of study and career. “Always follow your passion. There is nothing worse than hating what you pursue, be it studies or work. Do what you love and love what you do,” said Wee Chong, whose passion is engineering. “If you do what you are passionate about, you will never work a day in your life,” added Ananda.

Engineers apply principles of mathematics and science to develop new solutions to technical challenges all around us. They are crucial in all industries and take on critical responsibilities in a wide range of roles from R&D, to product development, manufacturing, construction, maintenance and servicing. With so many types of engineering and career options, it is important to “follow your interest and not the herd.” Tuck Chee's interest in structures led him to study civil engineering. Lucy said, “If you end up in a course that is not your first choice, develop the passion for it.” Casey Lim wanted to study medicine but did not get a place. He chose engineering and moved on.

CAN'T MAKE UP YOUR MIND?

Chyou Lin recommends engineering for the indecisive. He said, “A basic engineering degree gives more options for careers.” Yat Cheong's engineering background enabled him to move into property development and project management. Ditto for ACS(I) Vice Principal Siew Hwa. “The skills that I picked up in engineering helped me to be what I am today,” she said. For Hock Lum, his background is his platform to take up different roles in the construction and real estate industry. He had been a consultant, contractor and developer.