Why did you choose to pursue your undergraduate education with NUS Mathematics?
I chose to pursue my undergraduate education with NUS Mathematics because of its high ranking, which ensures a world-class education and numerous future opportunities, the program’s flexibility also allowed me to choose a second major and explore interdisciplinary fields. The rich resources included cutting-edge research facilities and a vibrant academic community that supports both personal and professional growth.
What motivated you to do a 2nd Major/Minor? Is this because you would like to pursue a specific career pathway, discover your interests etc?
I chose the combination of Statistics and Mathematics double majors with a minor in Computer Science because I aim to pursue a PhD in Statistics or Biostatistics in the future. This combination provides me with a solid theoretical background, equipping me with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in advanced research and contribute meaningfully to the field. Additionally, it allows me to explore my interests in various quantitative disciplines and ensures I am well-prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities.
How did the opportunities provided by NUS enhance your personal growth and development, academic growth / learning and career aspirations?
Personal Growth and Development:
Balancing rigorous coursework and research projects has improved my time management, problem-solving skills, and resilience, making me more adaptable and confident in tackling complex problems.
Academic Growth and Learning:
I had the privilege of undertaking an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Programme (UROP) under Professor An, which gave me the opportunity to conduct research in harmonic analysis and its applications in the field of statistics. This experience, combined with my internship at A*STAR, my final year project and my research internship at Yale, has been instrumental in shaping my academic growth. It provided hands-on research experience, enhanced my analytical skills, and helped me to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems. These experiences solidified my research interests and I feel better equipped for future academic pursuits.
Career Aspirations:
The combination of my double major in Statistics and Mathematics, along with a minor in Computer Science, has been pivotal in shaping my career aspirations. My coursework has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of theoretical and applied aspects of my field, making me well-prepared for a PhD. The practical experience gained from my research projects and internships have confirmed my passion for genetics research and has set a clear path for my future career in academia and beyond.
Please describe your most memorable experiences as a student in NUS Mathematics. Did you face any challenges along the way? If so, how did you overcome these challenges?
One of my most memorable experiences was serving as the Welfare Director of the Math Society. I organized events like the Welcome Tea with over 60 students in attendance as well as several other student bonding sessions. I truly enjoyed the unique atmosphere where math students could bond and share inside jokes that only we could understand.
I faced challenges while studying the module MA4262 Measure and Integration; initially, I struggled to grasp the concepts. However, with the support of my peers and the guidance of Professor Tran Chieu Minh, I managed to overcome these difficulties and earned an A by the end of the semester.
Who were the key individuals who supported and guided you throughout your four-year journey at the university? Is there anyone in particular whom you would like to pay tribute to or express your gratitude?
In my second year, I had difficulty finding research opportunities and defining my interests. Professor An Xinliang kindly offered me guidance and opportunities, helping me navigate this challenging period and ultimately contributed to solidifying my research interests. Even after we finished the UROP project, I still keep in contact with Professor An, who continued to offer me insightful advice on both academia and life. He is an incredible teacher, and I am immensely grateful to him.
I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to Professor Yu Tao, who played a pivotal role in my academic journey. In Semester 2 in my second year, he generously offered me a position as a teaching assistant for ST2334 probability course. This opportunity was quite rare for a Statistics student at my level, highlighting Professor Yu Tao’s exceptional kindness and boldness in trusting my abilities. He recognized and appreciated my efforts, providing me with invaluable guidance and supervision during my second UROP, which focused on novel methods for controlling the false discovery rate. This project ultimately extended into my final year project, shaping my research interests and skills.
Professor Yu Tao has been a tremendous support in my personal life. His wisdom and willingness to offer advice have been incredibly beneficial, and I am profoundly grateful for the precious time he dedicated to me amidst his busy schedules. His support has been instrumental in my growth, and I thank him wholeheartedly for his unwavering belief in me and his continuous mentorship.
What advice would you offer to fellow students who are keen on choosing NUS Mathematics for their undergraduate education?
Take full advantage of the diverse opportunities available, such as research projects, internships, and student societies. Be proactive in seeking guidance from professors and peers, and don’t hesitate to explore interdisciplinary fields to broaden your knowledge and skills. Stay resilient in the face of challenges, and most importantly, enjoy the unique and enriching experience that NUS Mathematics has to offer.