SPGG EDUCATION FUND

STUDENT ACTION GROUP

The SPGG Education Fund is more than just a financial grant; it is a community of support. We are proud to introduce the Student Action Group, a dedicated initiative formed by past SPGG bursary recipients—Emery, Jack, Min Khant, and Yan Ting.

Below, you will find a curated collection of practical tips, money-saving strategies, and personal reflections designed to help you not only survive

but thrive during your time at Singapore Polytechnic.

  • Actively Seek Opportunities: Regularly look for bursaries and financial assistance through the Ministry of Education (MOE), Singapore Polytechnic (SP), SPGG, and other community organizations like Mendaki, CDAC, or SINDA.
  • Don't Self-Reject: Do not ignore bursaries because of the paperwork or a fear that your grades aren't "high enough".
  • Utilize Available Credits: Use your Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) for school fees and SkillsFuture Credit for eligible upgrading courses.
  • A "Lifeline" for Growth: Viewing financial aid as more than just cash; it buys back time and "psychological bandwidth" to focus on high-value personal growth rather than pure survival.

  • Sell Skills, Not Just Labor: Instead of only taking physically exhausting jobs, use practical skills learned at SP (like AutoCAD, 3D design, photography, or social media management) for higher-paying freelance gigs or internships.
  • Diversify Part-Time Work: Students have successfully balanced roles in F&B, retail, tutoring, warehouse logistics, and even as library assistants.
  • Online Platforms: Use Telegram channels, apps, and platforms like Carousell or Shopee to find work or sell products.

  • Track Every Dollar: Use budgeting apps to monitor monthly earnings and expenditures.
  • Distinguish Needs vs. Wants: Actively reduce spending on non-essentials like bubble tea, café drinks, and excessive online shopping.
  • The "Student Advantage": Always use student discounts for transport, software, and food deals.
  • Shared Costs: Buy second-hand textbooks and devices from seniors or Carousell. Cook and meal prep together with peers rather than eating out daily.

  • Sleep is an Investment: Avoid working extra shifts that cause your grades to drop. A low GPA can cost you far more in lost scholarships and university opportunities than a part-time job pays.
  • Maximize "Pockets" of Time: Use the MRT commute for studying, preview materials before class, and complete tutorials promptly.
  • Rest Strategically: If work runs late, use 20-minute power naps to regain energy for morning classes.

  • Don't Suffer Alone: Join or co-found student communities to share resources and emotional support.
  • Exchange Knowledge: Lean on friends to share notes if you miss class, and seek out mentors or teachers for extra guidance.
  • Seek Counseling: For those dealing with trauma or severe stress, do not hesitate to reach out to student support groups or professional counseling services like SOS.

  • Continuous Learning: Use free or affordable platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning to build a professional portfolio and certifications that improve future employability.
  • Holistic Health: Prioritizing physical and mental well-being is considered a long-term financial investment.

COMMITTEE

Min Khant

Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Class of 2026

Naing Min Htet (Jack)

Diploma in Civil Engineering

Class of 2026

Emery Nabil Aydan

Diploma in Computer Engineering

Class of 2027

Xiang Yan Ting

Diploma in Science

Class of 2028