Choosing to pursue nursing was never just about a career. For me, it was a decision shaped by loss, hardship, and a desire to serve others with empathy and strength.

I lost my father to cancer at a young age, and the years that followed were not easy. My family faced financial difficulties, but my mother’s unwavering resilience and generosity – her belief in giving even when we had little – became my guiding light. 

While I couldn’t control what life took from me, I could choose what I built within myself. I chose compassion, resilience, and a commitment to walk alongside others during their most vulnerable moments.

I found the space to turn that commitment into action at NYP. The Diploma in Nursing programme gave me a solid foundation in clinical skills through hands-on training in a range of wards, from surgical to geriatric care. My final internship at Changi General Hospital was a defining point: I co-developed a digital learning tool for dementia care nurses and discovered my passion for research-driven practice.

Despite our family hardships, my mother always encouraged me to keep volunteering, have a heart for others and invest in non-material pursuits like a good education. This philosophy flourished during my time at NYP, where I participated in the Temasek Foundation SCALE Programme in Vietnam, coming up with solutions for sustainable development in urban planning. 

My commitment to service extended through the Community Service CCA where I helped refurbish homes for low-income families, and continues through my regular volunteer work outside of school, where I work with the elderly and special needs community through organisations like Ambulance Wish and ECONLIFE! Hub.  

I have plans to pursue a career in healthcare, but my long-term goal is to bridge frontline care with research and policy, ensuring that we not only treat but also transform how care is delivered.

NYP has given me direction, purpose, and belief in my ability to contribute meaningfully. I carry forward not just the skills I’ve gained, but the conviction that healing begins with understanding, and that even in hardship, something beautiful can grow.

Editor's note: Charmaine was also interviewed by The Straits Times. Read her interview here ->