​“Pursuing my Master of Arts at NTU allowed me to develop both my project and my professional capabilities – both aspects were crucial in securing me a doctoral scholarship from the ​​University of Oxford. The professors of the English department are knowledgeable in their respective fields, and the small class size of the graduate courses affords for a deeper engagement of diverse topics. In other words, one can pick the brains of​ these professors in class. I enjoyed the freedom to choose my desired courses; I was able to pick courses that I felt were useful to my own work. Having one year set aside for mainly research was also particularly helpful; it allowed me to focus on my thesis. The numerous teaching opportunities available at the department not only added to professional resume but also developed critical reading skills that my work benefitted from. Moreover, the department financially supported my conference attendance. Perhaps most importantly, the English department of NTU is a tight-knit and warm community. T​he professors genuinely want the best for their students; I certainly benefited from my supervisor’s close attention to my project and advice on my career path in academia.”

​“​Reading for a Master of Arts degree at NTU played a crucial role in my intellectual journey and prepared me for my role as an educator. The courses in the program are designed meaningfully, where the professors exposed us to a wide range of reading materials, and rigorous discussions occur during classes. The exchange and development of ideas that happened in those settings gave me a broader perspective on a wide range of topics in literature and culture. I was also heartened by the guidance I received from the faculty during the process of writing my dissertation. The questions posed and feedback given has made me both better at research and a more confident writer. Having the opportunity to teach undergraduate courses was particularly developmental as well, as I learnt how to engage students and similarly facilitate significant discussions. Many of the experiences have been directly applicable to my career as an educator, where I guide my students in improving their reading and writing skills But beyond that, the rich learning from my time in NTU has made me contemplate more though-provoking questions about the relationship between text and context and, hopefully, I am urging others to do likewise."   

​“In the English graduate programme, I found professors who were not just knowledgeable and passionate in their fields of study, but also invested in my personal growth and wellbeing. Through the process of writing and re-writing my thesis, and assisting the faculty on tutoring undergraduate classes, I learnt the importance of academic rigour, but also clarity of voice; when a situation calls for thoughtful exposition and when it demands frugality of words for impact. Of course, I acquired some knowledge along the way as well! I believe the critical skills I picked up in my time at NTU helps me today in my work as a copywriter for an advertising agency, in the way I frame my approach to different clients' needs and bring creative ideas and insights to life for different audiences. And I believe these skills will stand me in good stead for whichever industry I choose."