Scholars Pursuing Studies

Jeremy Ang
Awarded SPFO 2006, University of Warwick

There is a sagely Chinese saying - that every journey begins with the first step . Mine was the momentous and fortunate decision to accept the Singapore Police Force Overseas Scholarship. It was to be my all-expenses paid ticket to places, experiences and a college education that I could only dream of before.

Many say the first step is often the hardest. Indeed. With the requisite grades and resume, there is a plethora of scholarship options at your disposal, each as good as the other. For some, it might resemble a labyrinth. Turn left, the private sector; turn right, the Civil Service. Go south, it’s the SAF; straight ahead and you’ve got the SPF. All these and the fact that you have to find your pot of gold at the tender age of eighteen or so.

For me, the way was clear. I wanted a career with meaning and a strong sense of purpose. I wanted a challenge beyond the confines of a cubicle. I wanted a clearer look at a side of Singapore not oft-seen. I wanted to help and make a difference. The skeptic might denounce this as radical idealism, much like the sensationalism of Hollywood movies and Hong Kong TVB drama serials. But I believe mine is an idealism rooted in the bedrock of realism. No cowboys. No heroes. Truth be told, the job of a police officer is often understated and on a bad day, misunderstood. Nevertheless, I sincerely felt that it was my calling and that hand on heart, it was worth the try.

The next step then was to head overseas for the beginnings of my higher education. I can’t even begin to illustrate the past year of my life except to say it was a blast. The newfound independence was liberating yet a maturing force. The new culture was puzzling yet eye-opening. Not to mention that it is nothing short of a heavenly luxury to travel around Continental Europe and be able to later claim “I’ve been there, seen them, done that”. But what I will hold on to most dearly are the friendships forged with my flatmates and coursemates. We were a diverse bunch but we lived together, chilled together, played together, stuck together. Right, and never forget to obtain the minimum grades.

Sure, it is all going easy for somebody who hasn’t even gotten his feet wet in the real job. Looking forward, the road ahead will no doubt be challenging and exacting. Hopes and expectations will be high but I have no wish to disappoint. I have every confidence that with the right mental approach and years of learning behind my back, I will further discover my passion and answer my calling.

I took the initial plunge and I will only look back at that first step with immense relish and pride. I hope no less that the same can be said for you when you decide to join us.