By Chow Kok Yang
Bachelor of Science Sport and Exercise Science (Top-up), Edinburgh Napier University
Navigating a Difficult Time
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about many challenges to all of us. As a part-time student and full-time working adult in my 50s, I faced unprecedented challenges at home, at work and in my studies. All our classes went online and there were major changes in the way we do our work.
“Home-Based Learning” and “Work from Home” have become the current buzzwords and the de facto standard. These changes pushed utility and food costs up, especially when we order food for delivery. Cabin fever sets in and puts an additional strain on the family – not just on our relationships but on our finances as well.
Gaining Financial Support
But with support from the Singapore government, utility costs are mitigated through the 2020 GST Voucher – U-Save and job security was provided for under the Jobs Support Scheme. Household expenses were also better managed as we cook at home more often.
As classes could not be held face-to-face, PSB Academy’s lecturers put in extra effort by ensuring that they are available for curricular support and went the extra mile to enable online learning. The administration team has also been exemplary in supporting students. Speaking for myself, the Future Together study credits (which are granted to students who enrolled in 2020) have helped in alleviating my financial strain. Thank you, PSB Academy!
Transforming for the Better
A few years ago, I was obese and disliked exercise. But all of this changed when my GP disclosed that I had fatty liver, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and was at risk of stroke or heart failure. Thus, I started a personal regimen of exercise and my health slowly improved.
With my new lifestyle change, I decided to take up a Sports Science course at PSB Academy in late 2018 so that I can use what I have learnt to help my friends and relatives live healthily and relatively pain free. I feel that it’s never too late to make a change in our lives or to continue learning. So never stop and keep it going! After all, the only constant in life is change.
Disclaimer: All views and statements expressed are solely personal opinions and do not represent those of PSB Academy or other people and organisations.
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