Rather than halting my studies entirely, SUSS allowed me to continue my education while tackling the business crisis.
The ability to pursue part-time studies enabled me to balance my academic responsibilities with my entrepreneurial pursuits. Despite the turbulence of the pandemic, I not only managed to continue my studies but also played a critical role in transforming the restaurant. We expanded from a 40-seat establishment to a thriving venue with over 130 seats, relocating to the Singapore Science Centre. This move positioned us in a prime tourist and educational hub, enabling us to serve a larger and more diverse customer base.
Among my proudest achievements is my role as a youth mentor at Cavalry Community Care. Despite juggling multiple commitments, I collaborated with full-time social workers and fellow mentors from various universities to create a structured, supportive environment for at-risk youths. Through this mentorship, I built rapport and trust with the youths, providing them with individualised coaching and guidance. My role empowered them to overcome challenges and realise their potential. Additionally, I partnered with teachers to facilitate student leadership workshops and team-building activities, enriching the lives of youths in our community.
The reasons I chose to join SUSS are rooted in its commitment to inclusive education, experiential learning, and societal impact. Compared to other universities in Singapore and abroad, SUSS stood out for its dedication to applied learning, which has been a cornerstone of my educational experience. The university’s curriculum bridges theory and practice, allowing me to directly apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, a benefit I’ve seen in my entrepreneurial efforts.
One standout experience was the Experiential Team Building (ETB) programme in Shenzhen, where I gained hands-on experience in a dynamic business environment. Working with peers from diverse backgrounds, we tackled real-life business challenges, honing our problem-solving skills and developing innovative solutions. This experience boosted my confidence and creativity in facing business challenges.
SUSS’s emphasis on service learning also deepened my commitment to social responsibility. Collaborating with local communities to address societal issues has inspired me to integrate these values into my business practices, ensuring that my entrepreneurial ventures not only succeed but also contribute positively to society.