Testimonials

NTU-SoH provides opportunities and assistance for students to attend overseas conferences and I was able to present papers at two conferences in the UK. The experience enabled me to expand my professional network, enhanced my learning and broaden my intellectual and professional horizons.

Life as a graduate student in HSS has been immensely fulfilling. Within an academic year, I have had the opportunity to present in two overseas conferences and symposiums, in the United Kingdom in 2015 and Japan in 2016. Through HSS, I got to interact with scholars from different intellectual backgrounds, exp​​lore new countries, gain new cultural perspectives. I am also currently collaborating with two other HSS student editors on a book, this is how you walk on the moon. It is an anthology of experimental fiction that taps on both emerging and ​experienced voices from people all around Singapore (and a few from elsewhere). I am grateful to HSS for all these opportunities to broaden my horizons, and to have surrounded me with passionate, dedicated professors and students, from whom I draw a good deal of strength and inspiration.

Training at NTU History in the study of textual and art transregional connections between ancient South and Southeast Asia taught me to critically question existing assumptions, embrace unconventional types of data and build new knowledge atop these datasets. These skills have served me well in the careers in finance journalism and energy analytics I've embraced since my time at NTU.

My time at the History department at NTU SoH was highly instrumental, playing a significant part in steering me towards my current pursuit of history. The faculty and friends that I made in the department were dedicated and passionate about their research and exploration of Southeast Asian history, inspiring me with the diversity of their insights and approaches and willingness to think critically and engage with interdisciplinary methods. While I was new to the field of history when I entered SoH for my master's, the department quickly put me at ease and encouraged me to take my research further. I am currently a PhD student in a joint programme at NUS (Southeast Asian Studies) and King's College London (History), but still retain close friendships and fond memories of my time at the history department at SoH, where my journey into the field began.

As an alumna of NTU’S MA programme, I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional education I received during my time there. The programme offered a unique and intellectually stimulating experience that has been instrumental in shaping my career as a historian. The professors were not only experts in their field but also approachable and committed to helping students reach their full potential. They encouraged critical thinking and provided invaluable guidance that challenged me to think beyond conventional ideas and questions assumptions. The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinary research allowed me to use historical thinking in exploring current topics, such as science, technology, medicine, and sustainability. Moreover, the programme is designed in a way that allows me to pursue my diverse research interests. Overall, the MA programme in SOH was an exceptional experience that exceeded my expectations. The knowledge and skills I gained have been invaluable in my career as a historian, and I would highly recommend the programme to anyone interested in pursuing a career in history or related fields.

English was never my forte and I was unable to join the pioneering batch of Philosophy back in 2014 because my General Paper was 'ungraded'. I was instead invited to undertake Chinese Studies while I continued to pursue my interest in philosophy, in particular Chinese Philosophy. It was in 2015 that, having encountered Professor Franklin Perkins' HY4XXX series module on The Huainanzi, and firmly believing that rigorous training in Philosophy would enrich me as a person in life and advance my interests in Philosophy, I worked towards a faculty transfer by 2016.

It is evident from my Bachelors and Masters thesis that my proficiency in English and thinking has matured over the years. Philosophical studies also allowed me to better appreciate multicultural diversity and hone my communication skills and people interaction as I undertook teaching responsibilities. This would later propel me to a career path that I never imagined - a Flight Steward.

Studying at SoH is one of the most rewarding experiences for me. Having the opportunity to learn from scholars who are genuinely passionate about their linguistic research, has helped me to appreciate and understand multilingualism from a transnational perspective. My experience in writing my PhD thesis has also given me a deep understanding of Hong Kong and Southeast Asian languages and cultures.

The journey to my PhD goes beyond the academic milestone. While there is enrichment in knowledge, the biggest gain for me is the the change in attitude towards all areas of my life. The diligence required in pursuing my research has instilled in me the need to establish facts, and to remain objective in approaching any matter. This has a direct bearing in my handling of news, which is my job.

On another level, the pursuit of my degree has also impressed on me the need to have an open mind, and to see things beyond the surface. Research work has taught me that there are many layers and dimensions to many aspects of our lives. And very importantly, the perspective of an issue can vary greatly depending on one's position. That awareness has reinforced the need to be less judgemental, and to be more analytical and understanding.

In sum, I would say the pursuit of higher studies goes beyond the academic milestone. It has become a way of life.

My time as a SoH Graduate in NTU after completing my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees overseas has helped in forging connections with Singaporeans and international scholars who’ve chosen to pursue their graduate studies here, as we seek to better understand the shared history of this region and the world together.

My experiences at SoH have also helped me anchor my research with a firm grounding in historical thought and theory both as a student and in teaching others these subjects after years of specialised study in archaeology.

HSS has exceeded my expectations. Foremost of all, the excellent roster of faculty not only helped me deepen my knowledge but also allowed me to focus on my area of expertise and identify my niche in academia. Their passion for teaching and dedication to ​their respective researches is highly contagious – it is a privilege to be mentored by them. Second, as a student leader, I can attest to the ardent commitment of the staff and administrators to provide students with the necessary resources to ensure optimal academic and social experience. In particular, the Graduate Student Office, through the help of student representatives, constantly looks for new ways to improve and foster stimulating environment for graduate students. Finally, through the school’s support, I was able to attend an exchange program in Japan, a summer school in China, and an international conference in the United Kingdom. I was also able to attend (not once but twice!) the St. Gallen Symposium in Switzerland – a global gathering of today’s political and economic leaders and highly selected representatives from the youth. Through these events, I was able to expand my network, discuss relevant issues and debates with people from different backgrounds, and learn from diverse perspectives and cultures. Simply put, HSS has afforded me the opportunity to expand my horizon and accumulate varied learning experiences in Singapore and across the globe. After four years of graduate student life, I am confident to say that HSS has equipped me for a successful academic career ahead.

As a Chinese philosophy PhD graduate from the SoH, I am immensely grateful for the transformative experience that the school has provided me. The program has not only equipped me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of Chinese philosophy, but also fostered my critical thinking and analytical skills. The faculty members have been incredibly supportive, providing me with guidance, feedback, and mentorship throughout my research journey. The interdisciplinary nature of the program has also enabled me to engage with diverse perspectives and ideas, broadening my intellectual horizons and enhancing my capacity to think creatively.

Moreover, the SoH has played a critical role in helping me secure a job in academia. The school's reputation and connections have opened up numerous opportunities for me to present my research at conferences and seminars, which has not only helped me refine my ideas but also network with other scholars in my field. Overall, my experience at the SoH has been transformative, and I am deeply grateful for the education, support, and opportunities that the school has provided me.

Graduating from NTU SoH opened doors for me and improved my chances of securing interviews. I also realised that from attending several overseas conferences, an increasing number of philosophy scholars were paying attention to research developments in Singapore, especially in NTU-SoH. Their attention and interest in our research will provide opportunities for beneficial academic exchanges with them in the future.