Student Stories

What were you doing before enrolling in the Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences at PSB Academy? 

I was studying in Junior College, completing my A Level examination.  

Why did you choose to study Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences at PSB Academy? 

I always wanted to pursue life sciences as my career and the Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences at PSB Academy provided a clear and structured opportunity to bridge the academic gap.  

Looking back, what were some of the most valuable lessons or skills you gained during your time at PSB Academy? 

During my time at PSB Academy, the most valuable lesson I learnt is to always be curious. As a professional in the life sciences industry, curiosity is not just a mindset – it’s a driving force behind discovery and innovation. Whether it’s questioning how biological systems function or exploring the latest research developments, staying curious enables me to continuously learn, adapt, and grow. 

PSB Academy nurtured this curiosity by encouraging inquiry-based learning and fostering an environment where asking questions was as important as finding answers. Through hands-on lab work, discussions, and research assignments, I learnt to approach problems with an open and inquisitive mind. This lesson has stayed with me and shaped how I approach challenges, making me more analytical, reflective, and eager to explore the unknown in the ever-evolving field of life sciences. 

Was there a defining moment during your diploma that sparked your deeper interest in biomedical science? 

There wasn’t a single defining moment, but rather a gradual and steady deepening of interest throughout the course. As I progressed through the different modules in the Foundation Diploma, I became increasingly fascinated by how the human body works, how diseases develop, and how scientific research contributes to medical advancements. 

Each topic we studied, from cell biology to human physiology, added another layer of understanding and made me more curious about the complexities of life sciences. The consistent exposure to laboratory work and real-world applications helped me realize that biomedical science was not only intellectually stimulating but also impactful in improving lives. Over time, this accumulation of knowledge and experience solidified my decision to pursue biomedical science as a long-term career path. 

Do you feel studying at a private institution like PSB Academy gave you an advantage or presented challenges? 

Studying at a private institution like PSB Academy came with both advantages and challenges, but overall, I believe it gave me a meaningful advantage in my academic journey. One of the biggest strengths was the smaller class sizes, which allowed for more personalized attention from lecturers and greater opportunities to ask questions and engage in discussions. The curriculum was structured and focused, which helped me build a solid foundation in the life sciences and prepare effectively for progression into a degree programme. 

Another advantage was the modern campus facilities and well-equipped laboratories, which supported hands-on learning and practical skill development – essential elements in a field like biomedical science.  

Of course, there were challenges as well. Being in a private institution sometimes meant dealing with misconceptions about academic rigor. However, I found that the quality of education and the professionalism of the teaching staff at PSB Academy met high standards, and the experience helped me grow both academically and personally. Ultimately, it gave me a strong head start and the confidence to pursue my goals in the life sciences field.

Were there any lecturers or mentors at PSB Academy who made a lasting impact on you? 

Yes, two lecturers who made a lasting impact on me were Dr. Agnes and Dr. Charles. 

Dr. Agnes had an incredible ability to make complex biological concepts feel approachable and engaging. Her passion for life sciences was evident in every lecture, and she constantly encouraged us to think critically and ask questions. She wasn’t just focused on delivering content – she wanted us to understand the “why” behind the science, which helped deepen my curiosity and love for biomedical science. 

Dr. Charles, on the other hand, had a calm, supportive teaching style that really resonated with me. He was always patient, especially when we faced difficulties during challenging chemistry lessons. His feedback was constructive and encouraging, and he helped me gain confidence in my abilities. Both of them not only taught me important academic knowledge but also inspired me to stay motivated and committed to my goals. 

What’s one unforgettable moment from your time at PSB Academy that still sticks with you today? 

One unforgettable moment from my time at PSB Academy was the day we completed our final lab project and presented our findings to the class. It wasn’t just the culmination of weeks of hard work, it was the first time I truly felt like a scientist. Working closely with my teammates, conducting experiments, troubleshooting errors, and finally presenting our results gave me a strong sense of achievement and purpose. 

What made it unforgettable wasn’t just the academic side; it was also the camaraderie, the shared stress, the laughs in the lab, and the quiet pride we felt when we saw how far we’d come since the beginning of the course. That moment reminded me why I chose this path and strengthened my determination to pursue biomedical science with even greater focus and passion. 

What are you doing now, and how does it connect to the path you started at PSB Academy? 

Right now, I’m pursuing my Master of Science in Biotechnology at Johns Hopkins University, which I’m set to complete in December this year. At the same time, I’m currently undertaking a summer internship with KPMG Singapore as a Consulting Intern in the Healthcare and Life Sciences division. 

This journey connects directly to the path I began at PSB Academy. The Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences was my stepping stone – it gave me the academic grounding, research exposure, and confidence to pursue higher education in this field.  

Now, through my internship at KPMG, I’m expanding my perspective beyond the lab and into the strategic side of healthcare and life sciences. It’s incredibly rewarding to apply my scientific knowledge in a consulting environment – solving real-world challenges at the intersection of science, business, and policy. Looking back, PSB Academy was the place where that journey truly began. 

What advice would you give to someone considering the Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences at PSB Academy? 

Stay curious, work hard, and make the most of every lab and lecture. This diploma is a strong stepping stone. If you’re serious about life sciences, it will set you on the right path.