ITE student was disinterested in studies but family's support motivated him to change for the better

This article was contributed by the Institute of Technical Education (ITE).

Samuel Choo Wai Meng
Nitec in Aerospace Technology @ ITE College Central
Recipient of the Lee Kuan Yew Gold Medal 2020

Turning Life Around

As a youth, Samuel mixed with the wrong company and often got into trouble. Enrolling in ITE in 2012, he was disinterested in his studies and did not do well.

Over time, his family’s unwavering support moved him and motivated him to change for the better. After National Service, Samuel enrolled in the Nitec in Aerospace Technology course to pursue his interest in aircraft. He was then determined to start anew and prove himself.

Driven by this spirit, Samuel excelled in his studies. He also actively participated in various community service projects and leadership programmes.

Establishing his strong leadership abilities, Samuel was elected President of ITE College Central’s Student Council. He was well respected as a caring leader, who often took time to help others with their personal challenges.

Leading by Example

Samuel shared: “I am thankful that ITE gave me a second chance to succeed. The greatest takeaway I had from my time at ITE was learning to be a leader.

"Through the many events and forums that I participated in, I learnt to step out of my comfort zone and grow my leadership skills.

"The greatest satisfaction of being a leader is knowing that I have left a positive impact on those around me.”

After ITE

Samuel is undergoing training at GE Aviation as a repair technician, under the Work-Study Diploma (WSDip) in Aircraft Engine Maintenance programme.

Top Achievements

• For being an exemplary all-rounder, Samuel won the Lee Kuan Yew Model Student Award in 2020.
• Samuel was selected to be part of a Singapore delegation for the Singapore-Fujian
• Youth Leaders Exchange Programme 2019, which hosted delegates from Fujian, China.
• He was the only ITE student in the delegation, which comprised working adults and university students.
• For his excellence in community service, Samuel received the ITE Service Star Diamond Award in 2019.