After completing my Nitec in Digital Audio & Video Production, I realised what I really wanted to do was programming. It was 2019, and I’d just started teaching myself how to code. The moment I discovered game development, I knew I’d found my purpose – it was the perfect mix of creativity and technical skill.

 

I set my sights on one goal: NYP’s Diploma in Game Development & Technology. But my application was rejected due to my results from Nitec – twice. Still, I wasn’t ready to give up. I turned down a Cybersecurity diploma offer, took a year off to study programming, and rebuilt my portfolio from scratch. When I finally got in through EAE after completing Higher Nitec in Games Programming, I saw it as a second chance I had worked hard to earn.

 

At NYP, I made the most of that opportunity. With an NYP scholarship, I earned five placements on the Director’s List and attained a 4.0 GPA.

 

For my Final Year Project, my team and I developed an AI-powered skincare app with P&G using facial and hand gesture recognition, a project that reminded me how tech can serve real-world needs.

 

But what excites me most is using games for social impact. In H2 Game Jams and NUS Game Jams, I earned top placements with projects on scam awareness and education. I also regularly mentor ITE students through MENDAKI's amPowered@ITE programme, sharing my story to encourage others who feel lost or overlooked.

 

I have graduated with the Tay Eng Soon Award for ITE Upgrader. NYP wasn’t just a school for me – it was the dream I worked for, and the launchpad for everything I want to build. I hope to continue my studies in Computer Science and eventually start my own game studio, using gameplay to educate, raise awareness, and inspire.

 

I didn’t take the typical route here, but every detour gave me more reasons to keep going.