For Joy Liu Tongrui, the journey to becoming an educator didn’t begin with textbooks, but rather by sitting in classrooms of passionate teachers.

There was Mr Tan Ching, her chemistry teacher, who encouraged his students to focus on the process rather than the answers. There was also Mr Christopher Chok, her enthusiastic history teacher, whose energetic lessons and creative activities brought the subject to life.

These teachers shaped Joy’s view of education as something exciting and eye-opening, and sparked in her a desire to become that same source of inspiration for the next generation.

“I wanted to be that person for my future students—someone who not only imparts knowledge, but also sparks curiosity, nurtures critical thinking, and walks alongside them as they grow into confident learners of tomorrow,” Joy shared.

Lessons Learned by Heart

Determined to inspire her future students to learn with curiosity, think with purpose, and grow with confidence, Joy set out to become the kind of teacher who could truly make a difference. She knew that she needed not only passion, but a strong academic foundation to impart meaningful knowledge.

With this in mind, she applied for the MOE Teaching Scholarships and Teaching Award, which aligned with her goals through its emphasis on academic rigour and pedagogical development. This gave her the opportunity to enrol in the NTU-NIE Double Major Programme in Chinese Studies and Education, as well as pursue the NTU-NIE Teaching Scholars Programme (TSP).

Through the programme’s holistic approach in covering academic, curriculum, and education studies, Joy grew into a well-rounded educator, strengthening not only her academic knowledge, but her ability to design student-centred lessons, and manage practical classroom skills.

“The wide range of developmental opportunities and programmes equips me to understand what it means to teach in the 21st century, supporting my journey in becoming a confident, passionate, and future-ready educator,” Joy explained.

Learning Beyond Borders

Each academic year, Joy participated in practicum sessions that allowed her to apply her knowledge and skills and gain classroom teaching experience. She valued these opportunities to immerse herself in real school environments where she could observe live lessons, gain hands-on experience through co-teaching, and engage in professional discussions with fellow educators.

Among these attachments, Joy’s most memorable practicum took place in Fukui, Japan, where she was fully immersed in the local education system. There, Joy witnessed how teachers integrated reflective learning into their lessons, encouraging students to revisit and learn from their experiences. She was also deeply inspired by the strong culture of collaboration among teachers, centred around the Japanese Lesson Study model.

“It was a significant milestone in shaping my teaching philosophy—one that values student autonomy, thoughtful reflection, and continuous growth,” Joy reflected.

Beyond the classroom walls, Joy also embarked on transformative overseas programmes that sharpened her leadership skills and broadened her horizons. She served local communities in Vietnam as part of the NIE Service and Leadership Training (SALT) programme, and even won the Best Idea Award with her team at the Asian Universities Student Entrepreneurship Ideation Challenge (AUSEIC) in Hong Kong, representing NIE on a global stage.

“These experiences have allowed me to explore education from different perspectives, helping me design more thoughtful lesson plans, understand the broader purpose of education, and carry out my professional responsibilities with confidence and care,” Joy said.

Charting Her Own Course as an Educator

At the heart of it all, Joy’s story is a testament to the lasting impact teachers can have, one which she experienced firsthand.

“My teachers taught me more than just the subject content; they taught me values that I hold close till today,” Joy reflected. “Through the influence of these teachers, I came to realise how powerful a teacher’s influence can be during a young person’s growing years.”

Building on that initial spark, the comprehensive programmes under the MOE Teaching Award have deepened Joy’s educational foundation and provided her with invaluable hands-on experiences that continue to shape the core of her teaching ethos today.

As she completes her studies, Joy’s journey as an educator is only just beginning. Looking ahead, she is determined to create a classroom that is both nurturing and engaging, where students feel supported, find joy in learning, and develop the confidence to become self-directed learners long after they leave school.

“Ever since I decided to become a teacher, I have always strived to instil in my students the joy of learning and the value of lifelong learning,” Joy shared, “I want them to see education not just as a means to an end, but as an empowering journey of exploration and growth.”

To those aspiring to follow a similar path, Joy offers this heartfelt advice: “Take the time to reflect on why you want to teach—not just the subject, but the difference you hope to make in your students’ lives. Authenticity speaks louder than perfection, and I believe that your passion will take you far!”