Chasing his dream to go into the automotive sector

By Nur Isyana Isaman

Benjamin Chong started his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering at NTU during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was challenging as he adapted to the new normal of attending online classes with limited physical interactions. 

Around the same time, his father, who was the breadwinner for their family of five, faced unemployment and had to take up odd jobs to make ends meet. 

This threw a spanner in the works for Benjamin who wants to pursue higher education and aims to become a logistics analyst in the automotive sector. 

He applied for the NTU Bursary Endowment Fund and received timely financial support in his second year of undergraduate studies, which alleviated his financial stress.

Benjamin went on to achieve academic excellence, winning Best Business Plan for NTU School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Innovation Award 2023 and graduated with Honours (Distinction) last year. 

He said: “My favourite part of pursuing my undergraduate degree at NTU was undoubtedly my final year project, where I explored installing cell fire extinguishers in the battery packs of personal mobility devices to put out fires. I was fortunate to have the guidance of NTU Prof Chan Wai Lee, whose dedication made learning an enjoyable experience.”

Benjamin (left) with Prof Chan during the MAE Awards Night 2023. 

Having good academic results, savings from the bursary award, and income from part-time work as a relief teacher at a student care centre allowed Benjamin to further his studies. 

This July, he will graduate with a Master of Science in Supply Chain Engineering and has started exploring his job options.

“The bursary support was instrumental in my academic journey. It provided me with peace of mind to focus on my studies and achieve my academic goals,” said the 26-year-old.

Understanding firsthand the impact of financial aid towards needy students, he has paid it forward by donating to Class Gift 2023 and 2024 as a graduating student.

“With my positive experience, I advocate for other financially challenged undergraduates. One way to support them is to make a small donation which will be channelled to the NTU Bursary Endowment Fund as a cohort’s Class Gift,” said Benjamin. “The University’s bursary enabled me to pursue a quality education, opening up new opportunities for my career. Someday, I hope to give back to the NTU community in bigger ways.”

Support students in need like Benjamin to chase their dreams through the Class Gift 2024. Your contribution makes a lasting impact on their lives. As a token of appreciation, donors will receive limited edition NTU memorabilia.