11 undergraduates majoring in Malay Studies and 11 young graduates from the same department met on 17 February for a sharing session on academic life and post-graduation plans.

The alumni shared their personal experiences on how to effectively apply for jobs amid the current economic climate, and how to market their training in the Malay Studies department to future employers. Coming from various sectors like academia, the media industry, public and civil service, and community advocacy, the young professionals affirmed that Malay Studies majors continue to be in demand by employers. As students of the arts, Malay Studies majors can carry their skills in research and writing across multiple industries.

The alumni also advised their juniors to start making plans on their careers early, and reminded them that they have ready access to a network of fellow students and alumni whom they can turn to for advice on university life and jobs. The students were also informed of useful platforms like the NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates and MENDAKI networking sessions. The alumni also encouraged the students to participate in as many extra-curricular programmes as possible, and shared on their experiences during overseas exchange, internships, winter and summer programmes, and study trips.

Submitted by Mr Muhammad Suhail (Arts and Social Sciences '19)

Inspiring Geographers Return to Their Alma Mater

Mr Alexius Yeo ('10) and Mr Sarabjeet Singh ('11) were special guests at the NUS Geography Majors Tea 2020 on 14 February to talk to students about their career achievements and to inspire them to follow their dreams. 

Just days before the event, Mr Singh had visited the Istana with his family where Singapore President Mdm Halimah Yacob (Law '78) presented him a gift for being a nominee of The Straits Times Singaporean of the Year 2019. As President of the Young Sikh Association in Singapore, Mr Singh was recognised for his Association’s work at building bridges between people of different ethnic groups in the community.

Mr Yeo's dream when he was a student was to plant more fruit trees and vegetables in Singapore, and that is exactly what he did upon commencement. He is now a permaculture practitioner and educator, and also the founder of Project 33, a project aimed at encouraging community gardeners to give away a third of their harvest. 

Around 50 students and faculty members attended the event, and over refreshments, asked the alumni further questions about their careers. Mr Singh summed up the event perfectly when he called it a “sweet and fruitful homecoming”.

Submitted by Associate Professor Chang Tou Chuang ('90)