Read My

Growing up, nursing was never something I imagined for myself. That changed in Secondary Three, when I was given the opportunity to attend an experiential attachment at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Singapore General Hospital. For the first time, I witnessed what nurses truly do—caring for patients, supporting families, and making a real difference in people’s lives. I even had the chance to assist with simple tasks, and that experience sparked something within me. It was the moment I realised I wanted to be part of this profession.

After the attachment, my desire to help others grew stronger. I took up a first aid course so I could be ready to support people in times of need. From that point on, my mindset towards my studies changed; I had a goal, and I was determined to work towards it.

Coming from the Normal Technical stream, the path wasn’t straightforward, but I refused to let that define me. I applied to ITE Nursing through the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE), knowing it was my opportunity to pursue this passion. When I received my acceptance into ITE Nitec in Nursing, it felt like the beginning of something meaningful, proof that taking the first step matters.

I won’t sugarcoat it; starting out was tough. Everything felt new and overwhelming, and the learning curve was steep. But I chose to keep going. With time, effort, and persistence, things began to make sense. What once felt intimidating slowly became something I could understand and grow in.

During my time in ITE, I gained skills and knowledge I would never have learned elsewhere. I still remember my very first clinical attachment in Year 1, I was excited because it felt like I was one step closer to my purpose: helping others. Each attachment over the two years strengthened my confidence and reminded me why I started.

As I approached graduation, about four months before completing my course, I applied to Nanyang Polytechnic and Ngee Ann Polytechnic for a Diploma in Nursing through the ITE–Poly EAE pathway. I was grateful to secure an interview, and months later, when the results were released, I was both surprised and thankful to be offered a place in Nanyang Polytechnic Nursing.

I entered the direct-entry two-year diploma programme, and the transition from ITE to polytechnic was another steep climb. The pace was faster, and the expectations were higher. There were moments I doubted myself, especially when I compared my results to others. But I reminded myself of how far I had come and that doing my best was something to be proud of.

Polytechnic life opened my eyes to many different clinical specialities. Even though some postings were short, each experience added depth to my understanding and strengthened my passion for nursing. Despite the challenges, I found joy in the journey and growth in every step.

In the end, I graduated from Nanyang Polytechnic Nursing, a milestone that once felt out of reach. It was never an easy journey, but it was a meaningful one.

If you’re considering nursing, know this: you don’t need to have everything figured out from the start. What matters is your willingness to learn, your heart to serve, and your determination to keep going, even when it gets tough. Nursing is not just a career, it’s a journey of growth, compassion, and purpose.

There were times I compared my grades with others, but over time, I realised that nursing is not solely measured by results. While grades may open doors, it is your compassion, resilience, willingness to learn, and heart to care for others that truly make you a nurse.