Math, Life & Caring for others
Reflection by Cai Ping, NTU Undergrad Student of Mathematical Sciences, MILK Scholar
My love for Math started when I was in Secondary school. I enjoy the process of critical thinking and exploring different ways of solving mathematical problems. When I entered Innova (later Yishun-Innova) Junior College, I also developed an interest in programming while studying H2 level Computing. Upon completion of my Junior College studies, I wanted to pursue an undergraduate degree which combines both areas of interest. Hence, I chose NTU Mathematical Sciences.
When I started reading the various Mathematics modules in NTU, I was rather taken aback as university level mathematics is very different from mathematics at Secondary School and Junior College level. I find that University level mathematics primarily revolves around various mathematical theorems and proving said theorems, as opposed to applying equations and doing the relevant calculations. I also began to see more words than numbers and algebraic expressions in my Math papers. The course regularly demands the application of high levels of critical thinking and intellectual rigour. Admittedly, I struggled at first, but I was determined not to give up and rose to the challenge. I am very fortunate to have received the help of some of the professors, who have been very generous to the students and are always there to lend a helping hand. As the saying goes, one good turn deserves another: I helped a few of my coursemates who are still relatively new to programming by giving them tips and advice on Python, a programming language which I am thankfully proficient in.
In Years 3 and 4, Mathematical Sciences undergraduates get to choose between 4 specialist tracks, namely Pure Math, Applied Math, Statistics and Business Analytics. I opted for Applied Mathematics, as I feel that what I will learn from the modules in this specialist track are not only aligned with my interests, but also prepare me best for a potential career in the IT industry.
I was eager to start university as I heard many interesting stories from friends and seniors in NTU while I was still in Junior College. I found the NTU Orientation quite effective and an interesting experience: I was able to make a number of friends whom I still keep in touch and take modules together with, and obtain the contacts of reliable seniors whom I can reach out to for advice and guidance. I was inspired by the seniors’ efforts to ensure that the Orientation was a success, despite the various Covid-19 restrictions. Now that I am a senior myself, I make it a point to help the freshmen whenever I can. Many other school activities were also conducted online during my freshman year, but restrictions started to ease during my second year. I gradually participated in more and more events and even joined a dance club (Unific) with my close friend to keep fit and pursue my love for dance. I am also an active member of NTUCO (NTU Chinese Orchestra), where I get to make music in a large ensemble of like-minded music lovers and hone my Pipa skills.
In order to maintain my grades in the midst of these multiple commitments, time management is key. I thoroughly enjoy the CCAs and activities I have participated in. I not only made some good friends there, but also had the chance to partake in some unforgettable experiences as well, such as performing as part of a dance crew for the very first time! All work and no play makes Cai Ping a dull girl. These non-academic activities were also a welcome relief from my studies, and helped me attain a more holistic undergraduate experience.
The MILK Scholarship has helped to ease my family’s financial burden and allow me to focus on both my studies and my family more. My hope is to be able to help me to secure a full-time job in the IT industry upon graduation. I look forward to earning a stable income and supporting my family.