Interview with PA Scholar, Lisa Lim

1. What motivated you to apply for the PA Scholarship?
As someone who aspires to find a meaningful career, I was inspired to apply for the PA Scholarship and partake in PA’s efforts in serving the community.

Social support from family, community and the government are vital for all. Unfortunately, many Singaporeans lack this support in their lives. For example, during my internship with PA, a resident shared his struggles with discrimination due to a non-visible disability. Upon being notified, my mentor promptly contacted relevant organisations to raise disability awareness in Bedok. The immediacy with which my mentor responded to the situation was admirable to me.

During my internship with PA, I gained insights into the initiatives PA organises, such as overseeing grassroots committees and organising events. From the larger community to individual residents, I believe that the social support PA provides is vital, motivating me to pursue a career in this organisation.

2. How has the scholarship supported you in your academic journey
Knowing that I have a career in the PA after I graduate has lifted the stress of needing to find a suitable job for myself. This certainty has allowed me to study with a clear purpose, as I consistently connect relevant class content with the skills required for my future job.

Additionally, I am extremely grateful to not have to worry about the heavy financial burden of university while studying. The scholarship has allowed me to focus on my studies without needing to seek alternative sources of income to support myself. This grants me the ability to fully immerse myself in my university’s academic culture and lessons.

3. What are some valuable experiences you’ve gained as an undergraduate student in university?
An invaluable experience I have had in university is living independently and experiencing the immense freedom that a university environment offers. Balancing my academic, social, and personal pursuits has honed my time management and organisational skills, while the independence I enjoy has fostered a sense of responsibility and self-reliance.

Another valuable experience I have gained is the opportunity to participate in various event organisation roles in NUS, in both my faculty and residential college. This has provided me with important work experience and prepared me better for the roles that I would need to take on at PA.

4. What kind of impact do you hope to have in your future career with PA?
I hope that I can play a role in creating vibrant and cohesive communities in Singapore.

In an increasingly polarised world, I want to contribute to the larger movement of “Forward Singapore”, by bridging existing gaps between individuals to create a more cohesive and united country. I hope to build communities where people's relationships with their neighbours extend beyond mere geographical acquaintances, evolving into an extended social support network for one another.

On a more personal level, I desire to contribute to the loving workplace culture that I had experienced at the PA during my internship – one that is forgiving of mistakes and supporting of others, especially during challenging periods. After all, a supportive, positive social environment should exist both in the workplaces and communities we envision to live in.