Students from a myriad of diplomas flocked to the Foyer in Temasek Polytechnic (TP) on January 30th for the 2019 edition of the Temasek Polytechnic Opportunity Fair (TPOF). External exhibitors ranged from companies such as Singapore Airlines, to educational institutions such as Singapore Management University and public service agencies such as the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR).

With the many booths showcasing their available opportunities, students could approach the booths to get answers for their inquiries about a particular industry or educational institute. “I think students are also interested to be able to find out more about some of the various industries”, says Education and Career Guidance (ECG) counselling manager Steven Wu, “they (the students) can actually see for themselves and talk to the respective people on what their options are like for their education and to enroll. “

Free wristbands and pocket cards were given out at the Career Services Centre at TPOF, along with free counselling services for students that required some advice in regards to their future pathways.

For the students that have already determined their future path, certain booths were offering further education pathways and even career opportunities upon graduation. Singapore Airlines had a few booths at the TPOF event, with each booth from different departments offering opportunities for students to take once they graduate. SIA pilot Christopher Chan said “For us, at this event, we can share with the students the options that we have available, especially important as not many realise being a pilot is an avenue which is open to them.”. Each booth, in their respective departments, had opportunities laid out for the students to see.

The event also had talks by various industries as well as the educational institutes. Pharmaceutical science student Germaine commented “I think it’s been quite informative. You get to see options. If you want to continue your studies, there are options. If you want to go out and work, there are options. You get to see a lot of things (in the event)”.

The Temasek Polytechnic Opportunity fair has provided many opportunities for students to find out more about what they can do in their future. With the ECG counsellors providing their services as well as the many booth set up in the event, students left with information and advice that they can use for their upcoming years.  

If you have would like to know more about such events which are upcoming or some advice from the ECG counsellors as well, you can find them and get more information at the Career Services Centre in between the entrances of the School of Design and Engineering!

By: Sumeya Ahbabovic Shuen Yuen & Samuel Chin