Elite AI mentors, masterclasses, industry attachment: His tech dreams are taking flight
First-year undergraduate Timothy Yong is among the inaugural cohort of NTU's Turing AI Scholars Programme. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
With the new Turing AI scholarship in hand, the NTU scholar connects with world-class experts while creating a space where fellow innovators thrive
Should he receive a time machine, freshman Timothy Yong knows exactly where he is headed: forward, into a future being shaped today by artificial intelligence (AI).
“The past is cool, but I am more curious about the unknown, such as how AI will take the front seat in healthcare and environmental protection,” says the 21-year-old.
Timothy is among the inaugural batch of 34 recipients of the new Turing AI Scholars Programme at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
The scholarship is named after Alan Turing who is renowned for his ground-breaking contributions to the fields of mathematics, logic, computer science and AI.
Says Professor Luke Ong, dean of NTU’s college of computing and data science: “The emergence of AI as a general-purpose technology makes it pivotal in reshaping humanity’s future.”
He points out that the new scholarship programme is designed to prepare Singapore’s talent for this transformation by advancing cutting-edge research and nurturing socially-conscious innovators.
Timothy (back row, second from left) and fellow scholars with Professor Peter Millican (in checkered shirt) from the University of Oxford, who led one of the programme’s AI masterclasses. PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIMOTHY YONG
Graduates of the programme can take on diverse roles in the industry, from AI engineers and data scientists to policy advisors and ethical compliance officers.
“We want to empower students to pioneer innovations that contribute to Singapore’s digital economy and global advancements,” adds Prof Ong.
Carving a career in AI
With his sights set on the tech industry, Timothy sees the bond-free scholarship programme as a springboard into the world of AI. The first-year data science and AI undergraduate was particularly drawn to the programme’s comprehensive approach.
His journey began last August with an eye-opening masterclass taught by Professor Peter Millican from the University of Oxford. The class explored the philosophical foundations of AI, challenging him to think deeply about technology’s impact on mankind.
“We might not have a time machine yet, but we can create the AI future we want to see.”
– Timothy Yong, scholar in NTU’s Turing AI Scholars Programme
One discussion centred on defining a machine’s intelligence – a debate that is becoming increasingly relevant as AI systems grow more sophisticated in mimicking human behaviour.
“This module is not typically included in a traditional computer science curriculum,” says Timothy. “It is quite theoretical, but I found it useful because it provides a holistic understanding of how our field can shape society.”
After completing the scholarship programme, Timothy can pursue a master of science in AI within six months. PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIMOTHY YONG
As his semesters go by, Timothy will attend five more masterclasses led by other world-leading AI practitioners. He will also write a research paper in his second year, guided by a distinguished professor in AI.
In his third year, he will embark on a six-month exchange to the University of California, Berkeley, followed by an attachment with an AI industry leader.
At the end of the programme, Timothy will have the option to pursue a direct master of science in AI in just six additional months, a pathway that typically takes twice as long to complete.
A community that fosters creativity
The close bonds Timothy formed with fellow Turing AI scholars have also enriched his journey.
“I can immerse myself in a motivated and supportive community of like-minded individuals who will spur me to creatively explore my interests,” he says.
When taking breaks from his studies, Timothy jams with his hall of residence’s band. PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIMOTHY YONG
“It’s also a healthy competition. My course mates are not afraid to share resources such as extra practice papers and summaries from seniors in their respective courses.
“It is quite wholesome, and there is a mutual understanding that sharing helps one another.”
Timothy has found that balancing his studies with other activities enhances his innovative thinking.
For instance, he recharges by jamming with his hall of residence’s band and plays floorball regularly.
Encouraged by their professors, Timothy and his course mates have also initiated the Turing AI Club, creating a launchpad for tomorrow’s AI pioneers just as the first computer clubs once did.
Members of the club can receive funding from industry partners like A*Star to pursue various research projects in the field.
“We want to build a space where students can come together for projects and hackathons,” Timothy explains.
“When like-minded people come together, innovation will happen naturally. We might not have a time machine yet, but we can create the AI future we want to see.”
Source: The Straits Times | Scholars' Choice © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction.
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