IS has made a difference to the academic journeys and lives of many NP students. Whether in broadening perspectives, deepening learning or transforming paradigms, we are heartened that what we do spurs our students on to greater things. We talked to two former NP students with stellar academic achievements, who remember IS with fondness and gratitude.

Daryl Wee Yi Xiang, former Real Estate Business student, NP Gold Medalist graduate and winner of the SAF Overseas Merit Scholarship to Cambridge University UK.

Joyce Lee ping, former Accountancy student, Lien Ying Chow Gold Medalist & winner of the Nanyang Scholarship at NTU

When you think of IS, what are the 3 things that pop up in your mind?

Daryl : Holistic learning. Intriguing modules. Redefining individual capabilities.

Joyce : Broad-based education. Exposure to new perspectives. Enriched learning experience .

How did IS contribute to your learning and growth?

Daryl : IS offered opportunities to develop unique thinking skills. For example, World Issues: A Singapore's Perspective (my favourite IS module) exposed me to various historical and current topics which encouraged me to reflect on important issues. I find that the experience has greatly honed my analytical skills.

Joyce : IS modules allowed me to explore various disciplines and broadened my perspective, as well as honed my critical and creative thinking skills.

How did IS help you excel in your studies?

Daryl : IS played an important role in helping me develop key academic skills, making me adept at grasping different perspectives and concepts in my studies. I find that the skills continue to serve me well at work as I draw upon them to carry out my duties.

Joyce : The IS modules that I took were fun and interesting. They introduced me to a different approach to learning as compared to the core modules that I had taken. This kept my interest for learning alive throughout my three years in NP.

How do you think your experience with IS will enhance your undergraduate studies?

Daryl : Heading to a renowned school for a degree brings a great deal of joy and pressure, of course. I believe all students in Cambridge have high academic achievements (that's the reason the school accepted us in the first place); therefore the important question is, what makes us different? In my opinion, it is the 'life' skills and experiences which each of us acquired. In my case, IS contributed to these 'life' skills and experiences.

Joyce : In my university, we have to take up electives from different faculties. Hence, IS in NP gave me a headstart and a glimpse of the education system in University. This eventually allowed me to adapt to my undergraduate life easily. IS modules also equipped me with a diverse set of skills and knowledge which helped me cope with a 21st century education.