How RP helped Samuel Lee find purpose beyond grades.
“I rarely received academic awards in primary and secondary school,” shares RP School of Engineering graduate Samuel Lee. “Receiving the Lee Kuan Yew Award for Mathematics and Science validates that all the hard work I've put in over the past three years has been worth it!” 🏆
An avid robotics and car enthusiast inspired by anime like Gundam, Samuel was drawn to RP, which was then the only polytechnic offering a specialised mix of robotics, automation, and management through the Diploma in Engineering Systems & Management (now Diploma in Mobility & Robotic Systems). 🤖
Once a student with low confidence, Samuel evolved into a passionate community builder during his time in RP. As Head of Logistics and Treasurer for the RP IMechE Student Chapter, he led service-learning projects by creating innovative engineering-themed games for seniors and children with special needs. He also guided student volunteers in painting a vibrant mural at a kindergarten during an International Service-Learning Programme (ISLP) in Batam, earning him the Make A Difference (MAD) Service Learner Award in 2025. 💪
“Before coming to RP, I had limited exposure to community projects,” reflects the Seri Omega Private & International School alumnus. “RP inspired me to give back in meaningful ways. I believe that if we have the means to help, it’s a privilege to support others and grow together as a community.” 🌍
Samuel is graduating as valedictorian and will go on to pursue a Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics at Nanyang Technological University. 👏
⬅️ Swipe to read more about Samuel's inspiring story.
🔗 Learn more about RP's extraordinary award winners at www.rp.edu.sg/graduation
As someone who has witnessed firsthand the transformative journey of many students at Republic Polytechnic (RP), Samuel Lee’s story resonates deeply with me. Samuel’s experience highlights how RP’s unique educational approach goes beyond traditional academic achievements—it fosters purpose, leadership, and community impact. Before entering RP, Samuel struggled with self-confidence and academic recognition, much like many of us who felt limited by grades alone. His discovery of RP’s specialized Diploma in Mobility & Robotic Systems, a pioneering blend of robotics, automation, and management, opened doors for him to pursue what truly intrigued him—a passion sparked by interests such as Gundam animation and automobiles. This alignment of interests and academic programs is crucial for student engagement and success. What impressed me most is Samuel’s evolution from a reserved student to a proactive community leader. His roles as Head of Logistics and Treasurer in the RP IMechE Student Chapter showcase how RP encourages students to exercise leadership and take initiative beyond classrooms. The engineering-themed games he developed for seniors and children with special needs, alongside his leadership in international service trips like the Batam ISLP, highlight the polytechnic’s commitment to integrating social responsibility within STEM education. Samuel’s journey also underlines the importance of mentorship and encouragement from faculty. He credits his lecturers for teaching him to be bold, trust the learning process, and celebrate every victory, no matter how small. This nurturing environment is pivotal in helping students like Samuel not only gain technical skills but also build character and resilience. During his internship at OMRON Electronics, Samuel had the opportunity to apply and deepen his knowledge practically, handling complex tasks such as troubleshooting Programmable Logic Controllers and reverse-engineering software features to optimize costs. This real-world exposure is invaluable and often shapes clearer career aspirations. Looking ahead, Samuel’s choice to pursue a Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics at Nanyang Technological University reflects his growing confidence and clear vision for his future. His advice to current RP students about working smarter using AI tools while maintaining initiative and balance is particularly relevant in today’s tech-driven world. Samuel’s story is an inspiring example of how an education system that integrates passion-driven learning, community involvement, and practical experiences can empower students to find a purpose beyond grades. It encourages us to see academic institutions not just as places for grades but as platforms for holistic growth and meaningful impact.