PSB Academy prides itself on its strong partnerships with global universities from Australia and the UK. Its students are given access to a global education, an international qualification and a rewarding, insightful experience.

Alan Pang and Nigel Peh are two beneficiaries of the PSB Academy experience. Alan is currently undertaking the University of Newcastle’s Bachelor of Business in Management & Marketing full-time programmme. Expected to graduate in August 2016, Alan tells us that he looks forward to starting his own business by farming and distributing fresh quality shellfish throughout Asia.

Nigel Peh
Principal Technical Officer,
National Environment Agency

Studying Bachelor of Environmental and
Occupational Health and Safety,
University of Newcastle

Diploma in Chemical Engineering,
Temasek Polytechnic

On the other hand, Nigel has already graduated from the University of Newcastle’s Bachelor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety part-time programme. He saw a part-time programme as a means to gain knowledge and apply this knowledge at work. Nigel fulfils his work roles as a Principal Technical Officer at National Environment Agency.

Both individuals share how they came to choose their respective courses, and give us an idea of student life at PSB Academy.

Why did you choose to pursue your respective degree programmes?

Alan Pang: I pursued my first career in the hotel industry after graduating with a Diploma in Hotel Management. I started out as a manager of a chain of budget hotels, and had to work closely with my bosses who are also the business owners. It was through my experiences with them that I felt inspired by their passion and faith in their business. I knew I wanted to start my own business one day.

Furthermore, I discovered that I was able to excel in the management aspects of the business through feedback from staff and my bosses. Their words of encouragement gave me confidence to further my education in this field.

Nigel Peh: I chose my programme because I was interested in the scope of subjects covered. I always felt many people took for granted the clean air we breathe, clean water we drink, and the environment in which we live. It is important to protect the resources we currently have for future generations. With that said, I want to contribute to the well-being of my loved ones and fellow Singaporeans. This is why I decided to pursue my degree, as well as a career in NEA’s Pollution Control Department.

Why did you choose PSB Academy?

Alan: I chose PSB Academy mainly due to the quality business course offered by the University of Newcastle. We can also graduate in a relatively short time – our semester breaks are shorter so that modules can be completed faster. I also liked the other perks that came with studying at PSB Academy, such as its convenient central location, extra-curricular workshops, active student life, diverse facilities, and a strong track record of graduates landing a job.

Nigel: I chose my course at PSB Academy in view of its collaboration with the University of Newcastle, one of Australia’s top universities. Not only did the University’s modules interest me, they were very relevant to my work and helped strengthen my technical knowledge.

Alan Pang
Studying Bachelor of Business in
Management & Marketing,
University of Newcastle, Australia

Diploma in Hotel
Management, SHATEC

What are some memorable episodes at PSB Academy?

Alan: I was a student leader of the campus music club. In 2014, one of our first performances was at ‘Lunarizer’, an event organised by the international student association for the Chinese New Year celebration. It was a nerve-wracking experience for those who were performing for the first time. But I remember how we gave it our all and our performance was met with a resounding cheer. Since then, our passion for music grew and we performed at many events when time permitted.

Another memorable episode was the ‘Rhythm of the Rainbow’ event organised by the international student association and the Malaysian Student Association. The objective of the event was for students to learn more about the cultures of other international students, and raise money for our respective associations. As a committee member of the Malaysian Student Association, we had to organise meetings, establish the programme flow and ensure it was managed well. While we had to overcome various challenges, we were pleasantly surprised that we raised more money than expected. The event allowed us to have fun and more importantly it narrowed the distance between students of various cultures.

Nigel: The submission of assignments was most memorable for me. We had to bear in mind Australia’s time zone and adhere to the campus’ deadlines. This honed my skill in submitting work on time, because the university’s submission online system prevents submission past the scheduled deadline. I had to train myself to remember the time difference between Singapore and Australia.

What advice do you have for those who wish to enrol into PSB Academy?

Alan: While in school, it will be worthwhile to do more than just study. The returns you gain from your varied experiences will be immeasurable as they will never be taught in class. It is important to adopt an open mind in everything you do, question everything, challenge the norms and always find your motivation. This will ensure you receive more than just an education by the time you graduate.

Nigel: It is important to think about what you want to do and achieve in life, and how you can take steps to achieve your aspirations. Always stick with your decisions and make the best out of it. Nothing is impossible as long as you believe you can do it.