Scholarships

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The scholarship enabled me to pursue further education at Cornell University, where I graduated summa cum laude for my BSc in Plant Science and completed my MPS in Integrative Plant Science (Public Garden Leadership). I also met several Ministry of National Development scholars at the scholarship orientation and gained deeper insights to the coordinated planning behind Singapore's development and the foresight of our leaders.

My education at Cornell was both holistic and deeply specialised. Through courses in archaeology and anthropology, I appreciated the inseparability of humankind from plants. Among the library’s wealth of resources, I spent countless hours poring over the latest research on LED lighting for agriculture and perusing orchid nurseries’ past catalogues to deepen my understanding of Standard Cattleya breeding.

Cornell University is nestled in a region with many pockets of well-preserved natural areas. I explored these areas in my free time and experienced sights I can never forget: steep waterfalls framed in autumnal colours, only to be frozen still and blanketed by snow; hillsides covered with masses of ephemeral flowers (Trillium, Dicentra, Uvularia) in spring, and Showy Lady’s Slippers (Cypripedium reginae) rising up from fens in the summer heat. 

The programme enabled me to travel to and experience gardens around the country: the serene, contemplative landscape of Bloedel Reserve; Heronswood, with its radical hybrids and eclectic collection; as well as the Portland International Rose Test Garden, which is home to an array of vibrant roses.

My experience at Cornell University was truly made complete by the passionate, nurturing students and professors of diverse backgrounds I met there. The conversations we shared about our aspirations and life experiences enriched my education.

Working at the Gardens

As an Assistant Manager in the Gardens Operations department, I take care of the plants and landscapes in various parts of Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor gardens and water bodies. My work requires knowledge of a wide variety of plants and the ability to identify them – from the lotuses and water lilies that cover the lakes, to trees that shade The Meadow – as well as the horticultural techniques for their proper care and upkeep.

I participate in the research and conceptualisation of various projects in the Gardens as well. Together with the Conservatory Operations team, for example, we decide on the plant palette for a floral display and coordinate the changeover from the previous display.

I am also one of the Gardens’ Plant Doctors and respond to public queries to help people care for their plants that are under the weather.

I have had opportunities to rotate between Gardens by the Bay’s horticultural departments, which gave me a well-rounded understanding of how the organisation functions. 

A Rewarding Learning Journey

I enjoy working together with my passionate colleagues to create a wondrous, welcoming environment for our guests, and I treasure the camaraderie among the team. I also appreciate that this job keeps me physically active and mentally engaged.

There are endless opportunities to learn at Gardens by the Bay – be it through colleagues’ sharing of their expertise, doing research for upcoming projects, or by careful observation of plants and animals in the Gardens. It is a privilege to admire the countless beautiful and unusual plants at work, in the company of the Gardens’ denizens such as the diverse birds, monitor lizards, and otters.