In this series, Science@NTU gets to know the 2025 CoS valedictorians. They give a quick overview of their time in CoS, and also offer a few words of advice on transitioning into a new phase of life. Next up, we have Songkiat Ow Shiyuan from the School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.
How did you end up studying chemical and biomolecular engineering?
I’ve always enjoyed chemistry and physics in secondary school, which led me to pursue NITEC in Chemical Process Technology at ITE College East. That experience opened doors — including an internship at an oil refinery, where I saw first-hand how theory came to life. It was then that I realised I wanted to understand not just how things worked, but why.
So, I went on to take a Diploma in Chemical Engineering at Singapore Polytechnic, hoping to deepen my knowledge. Over time, I became increasingly fascinated by how science could be used to solve real-world problems — especially in energy and sustainability. That’s what drew me to Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. It felt like the perfect intersection of innovation and impact. So, I took a leap of faith and applied to NTU, and it was a decision that changed my life.
What did you enjoy most during your four years in NTU CCEB?
What I enjoyed most was being able to give back, especially through my blog, You Are Never Alone. I started it to share study tips, module reviews, and personal reflections, hoping it could help others the way I once needed help.
One of the most meaningful parts was writing about my exchange experience in Austria. I was among the first from CCEB to go there, so I detailed my course mappings, travel tips, and what to expect — not just to share, but to make things easier for those after me. Since then, many juniors have told me those posts helped them plan their own exchange journeys with more confidence.
Knowing that something I created could bring clarity, comfort, and courage to others made that connection one of the most fulfilling parts of my NTU experience.
Which experience had the greatest impact on you?
Being selected as valedictorian. It wasn’t just a personal milestone — it was a moment that validated every long, uncertain step I took from ITE to NTU. Standing on that stage, I wasn’t just speaking for myself. I was speaking for everyone who ever felt like they weren’t “meant” to make it.
What’s your next step after graduation?
I’ll be stepping into the energy sector as a Process Engineer with Seatrium, where I hope to contribute to cleaner and greener offshore solutions. At the same time, I’ll continue serving the community through youth and interfaith initiatives because while technical skills matter, so does heart.
I also hope to pay it forward through mentorship. During my time at NTU, I had the privilege of guiding juniors, whether through the peer tutoring programme, or student clubs. I know how much it meant when someone reached out to support me in my early days, so I want to keep that chain of encouragement going in school, at work, and in the wider community.
What advice do you have for your peers who are graduating this year?
Success means little if you lose sight of who you are. It’s easy to get caught up comparing milestones, titles, or paychecks, but don’t forget what drives you!
Provide a quote that inspires you.
Do what makes your 80 year old and 8 year old self proud.