The full circle: Shaping future nurses at my own alma mater

NYP was the launchpad for Nurul Huda Ahmad (Class of 2010). Today, she returns as an educator, inspiring the next generation and shaping the future of nursing where her path first began.

Published on 04 Jan 2026
Lecturers
Opportunities
Nurul Huda Ahmad with her student

Nurul Huda Ahmad with her student

1. What made you decide to pursue nursing at NYP?

My inspiration came from a personal experience. When I was younger, my paternal grandmother suffered a stroke. Being involved in her care and witnessing her recovery – with the support of dedicated healthcare professionals – left a deep impression on me. It was then that I realised how nurses play a vital role not only in treatment, but also in restoring hope, dignity, and quality of life. That experience motivated me to join the healthcare sector and pursue nursing at NYP.

 

2. How did your time at NYP shape you as a nurse?

NYP played a pivotal role in shaping my professional values. One of my most meaningful memories was learning under Mdm Aishah Latiff, who was not just a lecturer but a mentor. She taught me that nursing goes beyond performing procedures—it is about understanding the patient’s condition, the rationale behind care decisions, and how these directly impact patient outcomes. Her guidance motivated me throughout my studies and continues to influence how I practise and teach nursing today.

 

3. What was your career journey like, and what motivated you to return to NYP as an educator?

After graduating from NYP, I began my nursing career at Changi General Hospital's High Dependency Unit, pursued my degree with SIT–University of Manchester, and then worked at Singapore General Hospital's Intensive Care Unit. These experiences strengthened my clinical judgement, resilience, and ability to care for patients in highly complex and critical situations – reinforcing my commitment to nursing as a lifelong profession. 

 

I also completed the Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Critical Care) in 2016. This programme deepened my understanding of critical patient management and prepared me for working in high-acuity clinical settings.

 

Returning to NYP felt like coming home. Even during my student days, I enjoyed helping classmates learn and grow. Nursing was always my calling, and teaching allows me to pass on not just skills, but values and purpose. Coming back to NYP was my way of giving back to the institution that shaped who I am today and inspired me to pursue a meaningful career in healthcare and education.

 

4. How do you stay motivated in your line of work?

I stay motivated by remembering the impact nurses have on patients and their families, especially during vulnerable moments. Seeing patients recover, supporting families, and mentoring the next generation of nurses give my work deep meaning. Teaching also keeps me inspired, as I get to shape future nurses who will one day make a difference in our healthcare system.

 

5. Why should young people aged 16–17 consider a career in nursing?

Nursing is more than a job – it is a purposeful and future-ready career. It offers stability, continuous learning, and diverse career pathways, from clinical practice to education, leadership, and specialisation. Most importantly, it allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives every day. For students who enjoy helping others, learning science and healthcare, and want a career that is meaningful and respected, nursing is a highly rewarding choice.

Shape your future in healthcare with Singapore's most respected nursing programme.

Learn to manage diverse patient needs and make critical, life-saving decisions.

Find out more Download