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How Can NSFs in Singapore Enhance Their University Application for Top US/UK Universities?
20/12/2023•11 minute read
Are you currently serving in the National Service (NS) and aspiring to strengthen your profile for admission to a top-tier US/UK university, ensuring you can pursue your academic dreams post-"ORD"? Well done on discovering this blog—it reflects your commitment to achieving your goals amidst the demands of NS duties. Here, we'll explore practical strategies to help you distinguish yourself from other candidates.
How much time will you have to enhance your profile?
Let's talk about the time you've got. In the first 9 to 18 weeks of Basic Military Training (BMT), the duration of which depends on your fitness level, you'll need to remain in your camp for the first two weeks. After that, you can only head home on the third weekend and the ones that follow, unless special training is taking place.
After completing your Passing Out Parade (POP), you'll be assigned to your unit. If you're in a stay-in unit, you can head home on the weekends after five days of training in the camp. In a stay-out unit, it's more like a regular office situation – you go home at the end of each weekday and return the next morning. Both situations may involve weekend duties, which means they could take up your Saturdays or Sundays. With all this in mind, there are still plenty of chances to enhance your profile. Additionally, there are public holidays to take advantage of.
How can you continue to build your candidacy in NS?
1. Explore Online Learning and Achieve Certifications
Check out online places that have courses and certifications matching what you're into academically and career-wise. Get hands-on with subjects that interest you and help you grow professionally. For example, you could get into coding, grab a digital marketing certificate, or do some project management training. This shows you're serious about always learning and improving your skills.
Websites like Coursera, edX, or LinkedIn Learning are good options to explore. You could also try looking at free online courses from some of the top universities in the world as another option. Moreover, the SkillsFuture@National Service (SF@NS) Learning eXperience Platform (LXP) provides full-time national servicemen (NSFs) with unrestricted access to a diverse range of online courses, expanding your learning opportunities even further.
2. Embrace Leadership Roles in NS
Get involved in leadership opportunities in your NS unit. Take on extra tasks during training, volunteer for leadership roles, and show that you're ready to take the lead in different jobs. For example, you could lead a team during training or organise activities for the unit. This way, you demonstrate that you're proactive and can handle responsibilities.
3. Serve and Volunteer
Look for chances to lend a hand in your community or volunteer when you have free time. You could be part of projects such as cleaning up the environment or spending time helping at local community centres. It helps you learn new stuff and become a better person.
And here's the cool part: when you do things like this, it shows that you care about making things better. That's a big deal when you're applying to university or jobs because it tells them you're not just thinking about yourself; you're someone who wants to do good things in the world.
4. Energise with Fitness and Sports
Stay active – it's not only important for NS, but it's also an energy booster, especially when things get busy with uni applications and NS duties. Choose sports or activities you enjoy, whether within your NS unit or community events. You can even plan a hike with friends at one of Singapore's beautiful nature parks or organise a friendly game of football or basketball. Staying active is a wise choice to keep your mind and body in good shape.
5. Build Connections Through Networking and Mentorship
Make it a point to talk to people in and outside your NS unit who can share advice or mentor you. Building connections isn't just about having more friends; it can open doors to cool opportunities like internships, events, or working together on projects that can make your NS experience even better. Think about joining groups where professionals in your field hang out or attending events related to what you're interested in.
6. Create a Website
Make your university application shine during NS by starting a website about something you are passionate about. Let's say you're into the environment; create a site where you talk about eco-friendly things you've done and what you think.
Think of your website as an online storybook. It shows that you care and do things that matter. Plus, it's a cool way to let people know what's going on with you. Share it with others, like mentors or pros in your area; it might open doors for advice or working together on projects.
Creating a website helps you share your passion and reach more people. When you put the link on your university application, it's like inviting the admissions team to see your world. They can see how dedicated and creative you are, and the impact you've had. This gives them a real idea of who you are, beyond just your application papers.
7. Participate in Online Competitions
Participate in online competitions or challenges relevant to your interests. This not only helps you improve your skills but also provides concrete achievements for your applications. Consider entering coding competitions, engaging in design challenges, or participating in contests related to your field of interest.
Universities appreciate these experiences because they showcase your proactive approach to learning and your ability to apply your knowledge. In addition, they highlight your dedication to continuous improvement and your willingness to take on challenges, making your application stand out positively.
8. Prepare for Standardised Tests
If university is on your mind and you haven't taken the required tests yet, make good use of your free time by getting ready for standardised tests like the SAT or ACT. Given the NS schedule, planning ahead is crucial. Allocate specific times each week for study sessions or utilise online resources to enhance your test-taking abilities. The key to success is preparation, and doing this can boost your confidence when the test day arrives.
