Message from Rachel Chong Wan Xin

Diploma in Human Resource Management with Psychology

My journey at Republic Polytechnic (RP) has been amazing. RP shaped me into an effective human resource (HR) professional through a holistic approach to education, Problem-based Learning pedagogy, and supportive mentoring framework. My interpersonal and problem-solving skills have also improved over the last three years. 

I was presented with a plethora of opportunities to grow at RP. I got to learn through volunteering experiences, school camps, competitions, and industry attachment. I am honoured to have learnt from knowledgeable HR industry partners through the Harvard Business School Club and internship programme. These exposures provided me with networking opportunities. It also helped me gain insights on the HR landscape. 

My greatest joy would be from the activities by the School of Management and Communication (SMC) which allowed me to build lasting friendships and lifelong memories with my fellow course mates. I will always hold these experiences close to my heart. 

I would like to convey my deepest gratitude to my Programme Chairs, Ms Lee Chin Chin and Ms Linda Liew, Programme Head of Diploma Plus, Ms Lorraine Jow, and SMC lecturers, especially Ms Brenda Ler and Ms Ong Ji Lean.

Thank you for your immense support, encouragement, and counsel throughout my polytechnic life. You have taught us that with determination and a strong moral compass, nothing is impossible. With your guidance, we are able to move on confidently knowing that we are on the right path. 

To my dearest parents, thank you for giving me so much to be grateful for. Your support and sacrifices did not go unnoticed. I am eternally thankful to you for being my greatest source of strength. 

I regard graduation as a milestone in my career development as a HR professional. I will do my best to apply the skills and knowledge gained.

To the class of 2022, graduation marks the end of yet another extraordinary chapter in our lives. As this chapter closes, let us treat this personal accomplishment as an example that anything is possible if we put our minds into it. As we celebrate our accomplishment, let us march on bravely and remember – you too, can be an inspiration to others. 

Let us strengthen our friendship and bonds as we join the RP alumni family.

To end off, I would like to share a quote by Kerry Washington, an American actress, producer, and director, “Your life is your story, and the adventure ahead of you is the journey to fulfil your own purpose and potential.”

Message from Brennan Khor Kok Liang

Specialist Diploma in Digital Business 

Pursuing the Specialist Diploma in Digital Business at Republic Polytechnic (RP) as an adult learner was a unique experience for me as the entire course was taught online. 

I was particularly impressed with RP's use of technology to enhance our learning experience. I also got to witness the real-life applications of the concepts taught in class. As the course was targeted at mid-careerists, I got to meet adult learners from different walks of life and learn from their work experiences.

Being part of home-based learning meant that we had to focus on our learning, despite the distractions at home, be it from our children, pets, or other sources. We had to learn to concentrate harder and manage our time well to get the most out of the lessons.

The curriculum for the Specialist Diploma in Digital Business included real-life case studies and industry projects, which were highly relatable. The comprehensive industry knowledge shared by the lecturers further enhanced our learning. Personally, the digital business knowledge gained from this course allowed me to secure a part-time job, with a focus on digital media, in the sports industry while still studying. 

Going back to school as an adult was not easy, especially with the seemingly endless coursework and the need to juggle both work as well as studies. Nevertheless, I am glad to have taken the first step to upskill myself because knowledge can never be taken away from you.

I would like to thank Ms Joyce Foo as well as the team of RP lecturers for their hours of dedication. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us and most importantly, for looking after our well-being. Without them, it would not have been possible for me to learn so much within a short period of time. I am excited to apply the skills I have learnt through the course as I embark on the next phase of my career.  

The amazing learning experience at RP reminds me of a proverb, “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” We should never hoard or hide wisdom. Instead share it with others. We all share an inherent responsibility to guide others.