Lifting Others While Rising
Lifting Others While Rising: Phua Wei An’s Journey in NTU EEE
For Phua Wei An, a final-year undergraduate in Information Engineering and Media (IEM), studying at NTU’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) has been a journey of growth, gratitude, and giving back.
“I chose the NTU School of EEE due to the multi-disciplinary nature of my course, IEM. It allows me to learn engineering skills alongside the arts and media,” he shared. “The banner hanging outside the school block, ‘One Degree, A World of Opportunities,’ really reflects this well.”
Originally from Nanyang Junior College, Wei An has always been fascinated by how fast technology evolves. “The incredible pace of innovation really excites me. You might never know what’s the next big thing!”
A Leader Who Grew Through Service
Wei An’s years in NTU EEE have been marked by active service and leadership. His first foray into student life began with EEE Outreach, where he served as Vice President (Events). There, he led the planning and execution of many outreach efforts and events for pre-university students, such as tinkering camps and Open House.
“I benefitted greatly from EEE Outreach's events before I entered university,” he explained. “I wanted to give back by bringing the same positive experience to the future batches.”
He later took on the role of Vice Chairperson (Programmes) for EEE Efinity, the School’s annual orientation programme, helping freshmen have a strong start to university life.
Today, Wei An leads his peers as the President of the EEE Club, the official Academic Constituent Club of the School. In this role, he guides his committee in organising activities that enhance student life and development. “When I first entered NTU, I told myself that I would never put myself through the process of running for elections,” he said. “But now in my final year of university, I have taken up the opportunity to lead EEE Club as President.”
Throughout his journey, Wei An found strength and motivation in the friendships he made. “My friends that I have met throughout my whole journey in the School of EEE really gives me motivation to continue doing more to serve the school.”
Support That Made a Difference
Wei An is a recipient of both the NTU Donated Bursary and the Higher Education Community Bursary. The financial support, he says, made all the difference. “I felt that a burden has been lifted off my shoulders, as I did not have to worry about my school fees and money for daily spending, and I could fully focus on pursuing my education and student activities in university.”
Before receiving the bursaries, he had to carefully budget his savings and look for part-time work opportunities such as the Work Study Scheme. The aid allowed him to dedicate his time to a “very fruitful student life” — one filled with purpose, friendship, and leadership.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his journey, Wei An shared, “I have learnt that I can achieve what I set out to do, as long as I put in the effort to do so.”
Deeply believing in the power of education, he hopes to continue giving back. “I have always believed that education is a great contributor to social mobility, which is the reason why I have a mainstay in every Open House and I am heavily involved in the school’s outreach activities to pre-university students.”
And his message to others is simple but powerful: “A university education is a great gift! Thank those who gave you the opportunity to make it happen, and make full use of your time here to learn, grow, try new things and make friends.”