SP student determined to show parents that she could succeed -- and she did

This article was contributed by Singapore Polytechnic.

Graduate: Erica Tan Xi-Wen

Awards: Tan Kay Yong Gold Medal, IMDA Gold Medal

Animating her future

At eight years old, Erica Tan Xi-Wen was already feeding on a steady diet of animated films and was intrigued by the wonders of animation. The tween was also inspirited by her grandmother – who taught music and art – to venture into the creative world.

Uninspired by what she was learning in secondary school, the Tanjong Katong Girls’ School alumna did badly for various subjects and it got to the stage where attaining a pass was a miracle.

After her G.C.E ‘O’ Levels, Erica knew she wanted to pursue her passion in animation at a polytechnic. She visited the various polytechnics’ open house and enrolled herself in Singapore Polytechnic (SP)’s Diploma in Digital Animation as she was most impressed by its well-rounded curriculum and facilities.

And for the first time, she was determined to work hard to prove to her parents that she could succeed in this field – and she did.

During her time here, the sprightly student not only excelled academically, but she also participated in numerous activities such as the JENESYS 2016 Picture Book Programme in Japan, where she and other participants produced and illustrated a children’s book, which was displayed at Singapore’s National Library.

The adroit animator also did a year-long internship with well-established production company, Big 3 Media, and was involved in various projects like the National Day 2017 video segment and the opening sequence for Mediacorp’s Toggle online web series, Dear DJ.

Applying the skills she attained in SP, Erica also produced promotional content for a myriad of clients such as Lazada and Golden Village, and was given the opportunity to take on full projects – which was uncommon for interns at the firm.

Her supervisors were so enthralled with the high quality of work that they offered her a full-time contract.

With a fervent love for the arts, Erica is currently taking a gap year to build up her portfolio – she is freelancing for Big 3 Media while taking on various projects such as wedding animations.

With an enhanced portfolio and skills, Erica plans to read animation and directing at an overseas university.

Read more about Singapore Polytechnic's top graduates here.