Taking the leap from junior college (JC) to university and then to the professional world can sometimes feel daunting, especially when you’re fresh out of school. Scholar Afifa Shafana who once stood at similar crossroads, learned to navigate these shifts, and gained important lessons which propelled her toward success. Graduating from JC, she pursued a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (LLB) programme at the National University of Singapore. Her journey led her to earning the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) Information Service (Translation) Scholarship, and she now serves as an Assistant Manager in MCI’s Translation Department. Drawing from her experiences, Afifa shares valuable insights to empower students to thrive in their own journeys.

Adopting a Positive Perspective Amid Transitions

The transition from junior college to university marked a paradigm shift in academic rigour and expectations. The demands of independent study and critical thinking required a recalibration of my approach to learning. This shift was navigated through the cultivation of time management skills and an ardent commitment to embrace any challenges with an open mind.

The lifestyle shift demanded a delicate balance between my academic and social life which was only fully realised with increased resilience, active seeking of support from my peers and professors, and viewing challenges as stepping stones to my personal growth.

Go Beyond Your Boundaries: The Scholarship Journey

For aspiring JC graduates yearning for a scholarship in university, my advice would be to stretch yourself beyond the conventional boundaries of academic excellence. Showcase intellectual prowess and a deep-seated passion for your chosen field. Be open to exploration, align personal values with the scholarship’s objectives, and let your unique narrative (moulded by personal experiences) shine through in the application process.

Beyond alleviating financial burdens, my scholarship acted as a guiding beacon, steering me toward language-related electives and provided me with an internship opportunity at MCI that solidified my passion for translation.

Leveraging Opportunities to Grow

My strategic approach during university involved a deliberate pursuit of language-related electives, immersive internships, and active engagement in extracurricular activities such as the NUS Tamil Language Society. Networking with professionals in the translation industry and Tamil language and media field became a cornerstone for practical insights, shaping my skill set and preparing me for the nuanced demands of my chosen career path.

The NUS Tamil Language Society became a nurturing environment where my passion for the Tamil language flourished, and my leadership role as President provided a unique vantage point to witness the dynamic interplay of language and cultural elements. This active involvement not only enriched my academic pursuits but also laid a solid foundation for a career that seamlessly aligns with my fervour for language and cultural diversity.

As a law student participating in pro bono legal initiatives, I also used my translation expertise to translate legal brochures in law school to educate the public on different policies and legal schemes, especially during emergency periods like COVID-19. This experience crystallised my confidence in the realm of translation and got me considering it as a possible career option.

Staying Adaptable

A pivotal takeaway from my university years, which has proven to be crucial in the working world in hindsight is the significance of being open-minded — a quality that has been instrumental in shaping my unconventional career path. Transitioning from having a science background to studying law and eventually finding my niche in the communications industry, I have come to appreciate the versatility that an open mind affords in today’s dynamic world.

This adaptability has not only fuelled my academic pursuits but has also proven crucial in thriving within the communications sector. The communications industry, being versatile in nature, welcomes and rewards officers with diverse skill sets with which one can navigate multi-faceted challenges. This grit and clarity in honing different skill sets was certainly met seamlessly by the openmindedness that I cultivated during my university journey. Embracing unexpected opportunities has become a guiding principle, allowing me to not only survive but flourish in a professional landscape that prizes continuous adaptability.

Enjoying Every Step of the Journey

Each step I took while transitioning from studying science to joining law school and eventually entering the translation industry, was a well-thought-out decision that I embraced with enthusiasm. Every transition provided me with a unique set of experiences that, in retrospect, I consider valuable and indispensable. The diverse academic and professional landscapes I navigated contributed to a well-rounded skill set and a broadened perspective. Embracing these changes was not just about reaching a destination; it was about enjoying the journey and appreciating the richness that each phase brought to my overall growth. The ability to seamlessly adapt to different fields, from science to law and translation, has become a testament to my versatility and has significantly enriched my career. In essence, I cherish the scenic route I took, as it has sculpted a narrative of continuous learning, resilience, and a profound appreciation for the diverse experiences that have shaped my professional trajectory.

Embracing New Challenges and Experiences

For ambitious JC graduates standing at the threshold of their university journey, my parting advice is to approach the journey not merely as an academic pursuit but as a holistic preparation for a fulfilling and impactful career. Embrace challenges, actively seek experiences aligned with your passions, and build a supportive network. May your endeavours be marked by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering pursuit of knowledge, laying the foundation for a gratifying career.