By Siddhika Didel (Economics + NUSC ’26).
In the journey of education, it is often the people who believe in us who leave lasting imprints on our lives. For Grace Chua (Chemistry + USP ’05), a passionate educator and generous supporter of NUS College (NUSC), this belief in the transformative power of education has guided her both in the classroom and beyond. Her story thus speaks of hope, respect, and the quiet yet profound impact of giving back.
Grace is wrapped in blooms by an old soul of Japan.
Grace’s personal journey into teaching was shaped by a deeply humbling experience. Fresh out of junior college, she volunteered as a tutor at the Changi Women’s Prison, where she taught students considerably older than her. When she asked them why they would listen to her despite the age difference, their response struck a chord: she represented a hope they did not have at the time, an opportunity to rewrite their experiences. “I embodied something they couldn’t achieve when they were my age,” Grace shared. “I was a symbol of hope that they could also do what I have done.”
Grace is still inspired by that hope that education goes just beyond the act of transferring facts; it is also about developing the mind. Reflecting on her education, she recalls that while she enjoyed subjects such as Chemistry and Geography, she was most interested in figuring out how to study more effectively. “I saw learning as a mental exercise, a way to sharpen the mind, and develop writing and research skills,” she enthused. She fondly recalls the module, Special Topics in Arts, as she spent time in the library researching and writing her essay in 24 hours.
Grace’s teaching and life philosophy centres on mutual respect: she believes that her students’ behaviours and actions are a reflection of her own. This motivates her to lead by example and inspire generosity, to give without expecting anything in return. With her limited time and bandwidth outside of work, she generously gives to a variety of causes. Seeing former students overcome challenges and return after graduation reaffirms her commitment to dedicate herself to education’s lasting impact.
Being part of NUSC’s story is deeply meaningful to Grace. “The University Scholars Programme (USP) was the highlight of my university years,” she said. Her monthly pledge to the NUS College Student Assistance Fund is not just a gift, but a contribution to the ongoing legacy of a programme that shaped her profoundly. She hopes many more students will grow and flourish under its guidance, as she did.
Grace believes that giving is about quiet, consistent support rather than big gestures. “It’s not about strong emotions, but about doing what I can to help those in need,” she asserted. She understands that financial issues sometimes inhibit talented students from participating in programmes like USP, and her contribution strives to break down such “obstacles”.
Grace returns to campus for a visit with Dean Simon Chesterman and Vice Dean (Outreach), Quek Su Ying.
To the future recipients of her gift, Grace offers a simple message: “I do what I can to support those around me, and I hope others will do the same.” Her words encapsulate a spirit of community and reciprocity, values that underpin not only education but the very culture of giving itself at NUSC.
If you would also like to make a contribution to positively impact our students’ lives, please contact nusc.giving@nus.edu.sg.
