SIM provides grants, customized study options, and industry partnerships to help working students excel.
Overcoming Setbacks and Returning to Her Passion
Sometimes life presents unexpected challenges that can derail your dreams. Ms. Nur Dyana Tambunan experienced this in her late teens when her mother was diagnosed with cancer, prompting Dyana to work part-time as a waitress to support her family. Her mother’s battle with illness left an emotional impact on her, which also affected her studies. After graduating with a Diploma in Aviation Management, she paused her academic journey to work full-time as a restaurant manager.
Despite her job in the food and beverage industry, Dyana’s passion for aviation never faded. She transitioned to other roles, including a financial advisor, customer service officer, and quality assurance manager at an IT firm. Still, her dream to work in aviation remained steadfast, and she used her savings to enroll in the SIM-RMIT Bachelor of Applied Science (Aviation) (Top-up) program in 2020.
The program, which combined theory and practical applications in aviation management, was a key step in her journey to remain competitive in Singapore’s job market and eventually land a role in the aviation sector. The flexible course structure allowed Dyana to balance her full-time job while studying, making it a perfect fit for her.
Recognition for Perseverance
In recognition of her perseverance and exceptional academic performance, Dyana was awarded the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience after graduation. This prestigious award is given to part-time degree holders who have excelled academically while overcoming personal adversity. Dyana explained that receiving the award was a turning point in her career, significantly enhancing her resume and opening new doors for professional growth.
SIM’s Social Initiatives and Support
Dyana’s success was not just due to her determination but also the support from SIM’s social initiatives. Through grants and funding programs like the SIM People Development Fund (SIMPDF), SIM assists individuals in upskilling and reskilling through accessible learning pathways. In 2021, the SIMPDF provided financial support to individuals like Dyana, enabling them to focus on their academic and career development.
Empowering Students for Career Growth
Another SIM student, Ms. Shereen Afandi, benefited from the SIM Undergraduate Scholarship for Academic Excellence and Leadership. This scholarship not only provided financial assistance but also opened up numerous opportunities for Shereen’s personal and professional growth. Shereen was invited to speak at events and served as a student ambassador, further honing her leadership skills.
Her journey also included mentorship through SIM’s Project Protege program, which connected her with a professional in HR strategy. This mentorship allowed Shereen to shadow an industry expert, gain hands-on experience, and solidify her aspirations in talent strategy and transformation.
Ongoing Support for Lifelong Learning
SIM continues to offer support even after students graduate. In 2022 alone, SIM awarded over $1.2 million in scholarships and bursaries. The institution works with global universities and experts to provide industry-specific curricula, ensuring students remain competitive in an evolving job market. With a focus on lifelong learning, SIM’s programs help professionals upskill through initiatives such as micro-credentials and digital badges, allowing students to stay relevant and grow throughout their careers.
As SIM approaches its 60th anniversary, it remains dedicated to educational empowerment and the development of a future-ready workforce. “We believe in the power of education and lifelong learning to transform lives and shape the future,” said Seah Chin Song, SIM’s president and CEO. Through its partnerships and support initiatives, SIM continues to foster career progression and equip students for success in both Singapore and the broader region.
