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Hi-fi expert or sound engineer. Mention the term “audiologist” to some people and these are the two answers you’ll invariably get. For Esther Peh though, the field of audiology - the science of hearing - is an intriguing one filled with the wonders of technology and the human body. A second-year biomedical engineering & informatics student at TP, Esther’s ambition is to become an audiologist - a professional who diagnoses, treats, and manages individuals with hearing loss or balance problems.

An avid reader, Esther’s interest in audiology stems in part from her fascination with life sciences and software programming since she was a child, “I am sort of a science freak. I just love to read about forensic science, robots and surf science websites like NOVA. The moment my eyes glue onto the computer screen, I will just stay there until someone tries to ‘drag’ me away. I even have my own blog
about science.”

Esther’s ambition in an uncommon field of study is not the reason why we admire her – it is her courage. Born with moderate hearing loss in both ears since birth, Esther has been fascinated with audiology ever since she was fitted with a pair of hearing aids when she was a child. “I was hooked when I observed my audiologist working on the audiometer. Sometimes, I even fantasised taking over my audiologist’s place!”

Although some people have doubts whether her hearing condition might be an impediment to her ambition, there are strictly no reasons why Esther wouldn’t be able to perform all the duties of an audiologist. Working in a healthcare setting, an audiologist would be using hearing instruments made with state of the art electronics. In fact, having a hearing disability might be an added advantage for Esther as she would be able to empathise and advise her clients better.

Esther has set her mind on pursuing a master’s degree programme in audiology – the required qualification for an audiologist. With her Biomedical Engineering diploma, she’ll be able to enjoy exemption in many degree programmes – thereby shortening the time needed to get her Master’s in Audiology. In addition, her life sciences and electronics skills acquired through her Biomedical Engineering diploma will also serve her well in her studies.

With her positive outlook on life, Esther’s passion is an inspiration to other children in need as well. Outside of school, she volunteers her time by participating in the BP Mentoring and Tutoring Scheme, helping academically weak pupils with their work.

Focused on furthering her studies in biomedical engineering at Nanyang Technological University, Esther is well on her way towards fulfilling her dreams. With her fortitude we’re quite sure you’ll be hearing more about Esther in the days ahead.