Learning physics was never a smooth sail to me. Having grappled with mind-boggling abstract theories, I was normally greeted with a brief Eureka moment, followed by an enlightened realisation that I was merely scratching the surface of the bigger picture. The learning path was a fulfilling bittersweet journey that constantly spurred curiosity. Without stimulating discussions with supportive lecturers and study buddies, it would be an uphill venture to consolidate the concepts learnt. As a teaching assistant in my senior years, I enjoyed the mutual exchange of conceptual ideas with juniors, which provided me fresh insights and point of view.

Physics exploration in NUS was not merely limited to grasping theoretical concepts. Inspired by the vast potential in materials research, I opted to specialise in materials physics as an experimentalist. Under multiple research programmes, I was incredibly grateful to hone my experimental skills and research techniques under the guidance of many laboratory seniors and mentors. Research immersion is an effective training ground of analytical skill, problem solving and scientific acumen. Exposure to the overseas research environment through Student Exchange Programme and Overseas Summer Research Programme has also broadened my perspective tremendously, eventually leading me to pursue a PhD currently in the study of biomimetic photonics in nature, a highly interdisciplinary field of research, at the University of Cambridge. Through these vast opportunities provided by NUS, academic learning is beyond lectures and examinations. Beyond one’s comfort zone, these outbound explorations culture versatility and adaptability, which are crucial in the world today.           

Most importantly, I am especially thankful to the support and care of the laboratory family whom I have been with for the past three years. Long-lasting friendship is one of the most valuable gifts that I have gleaned in my undergraduate years. Moving forward, we may part our ways, but our fond memories shared are everlasting. Undeniably, 2020 is not the best year to graduate in. However, we are not alone in this global havoc. We have seen seniors emerging triumphant after tons of setbacks. Life is never certain, as we physicists have learnt through nature. While we the class of 2020 have an early taste of unpredictability, it is not the end; it is an interim, of a lifelong adventure.