Turning a Setback into a Stepping Stone

When Syed Mashoud Sakaf received his A-level results in January 2022, he found himself at a crossroads. The grades he got meant that he was ineligible for most degree programmes and his dreams of entering SIT’s Diagnostic Radiography programme suddenly felt out of reach.

A Wake-Up Call and a Shift in Perspective

“It was a wake-up call for me,” Mashoud reflects. “I realised I hadn’t been as focused as I should have been, and I regretted it.”

Rather than letting that moment define him, Mashoud made a quiet but firm decision: he would retake his A-levels the following year as a private candidate and give himself another chance.

“Failure isn’t something to fear,” he says. “It’s something to learn from – if you’re willing to reflect and keep trying.”

Studying Between Shifts

The year that followed demanded discipline and resolve. Serving full-time National Service with the Singapore Police Force then, Mashoud studied whenever he could – between patrol duties, midnight operations and anti-crime public education efforts. Preparing for practical examinations was especially challenging, as he no longer had access to laboratory facilities he once had as a student.

Still, he pressed on. With persistence and careful time management, his hard work paid off. The improvement was significant. From his earlier results that had once closed doors, Mashoud worked his way to 72.5 rank points – a marked improvement that reflected not just stronger academic performance, but a shift in mindset and habits.

“It wasn’t just about scoring higher,” he says. “It was about proving to myself that I could be consistent, focused and responsible for my own learning.”

That progress ultimately earned him a place in SIT’s Diagnostic Radiography programme, opening a door he once thought had closed. 

“I realised that I need to work for what I want. Before, I took things for granted, doing just enough to move on to the next stage. Now, I make an effort to stay present, to follow my lectures, complete my tutorials and not procrastinate,” he says.  

Why Healthcare Became Personal

Now a Year 2 Diagnostic Radiography student at SIT, Mashoud is studying a subject he has long been drawn to and learning about human anatomy.

His interest in healthcare began long before university. Born with a leg length discrepancy, a condition where one leg is shorter than the other, he grew up attending regular hospital check-ups. During his childhood, doctors were once concerned about his growth, particularly when he was much smaller-framed than his peers.

Over time, careful nutrition and later a growth spurt helped those worries subside, but the experience left a lasting impression. It sparked a fascination with medical imaging – how X-rays could reveal “what he is made of” beneath the surface – and nurtured a deep respect for healthcare professionals who care for patients behind the scenes.

Grounded by Family, Shaped by Gratitude

Growing up in a household of eight in a four-room HDB flat, Mashoud learned early to be grateful for what he has. The family had to be careful with expenses and went without things many consider basic – such as home Wi-Fi or a personal phone until recent years. Yet Mashoud never felt deprived. He understood his family’s constraints and focused instead on being content, practical and appreciative of his parent’s efforts.

As the eldest sibling, he oftens looks out for his younger brothers and sister. When he can, Mashoud brings them out for simple meals or treats them to moments of joy, such as visiting the Uncle Ringo carnival where they can play games and go on rides together. These small gestures reflect the care and quiet responsibility that define him. 

A Helping Hand from Dou Yee Enterprises: The Difference Support Makes

Mashoud’s journey at SIT has been augmented by the support of the Dou Yee Enterprises Bursary, established through the vision of Mr Soo Ye Wah, Founder and Executive Chairman of Dou Yee Enterprises. Since 2013, the bursary has been supporting SIT students from disadvantaged backgrounds, reflecting Mr Soo’s belief – shaped by his own humble beginnings – in investing in young people’s potential by removing financial barriers so they can focus on learning, growing and giving back to the community. 

For Mashoud, the bursary represents more than financial assistance – it is a vote of confidence. “Even though the donor has never met me, I really appreciate the trust they have in me and I don't want to take it for granted.” he says. “The financial support has allowed me to commit more fully on my studies and co-curricular activities, without having to juggle part-time work.”  

Before receiving the bursary, Mashoud took on ad-hoc food and beverage and administrative jobs to cover his daily expenses. Without this support, he would have needed to take up a study loan and continue working part-time alongside his studies. The bursary eased that pressure, giving him the time and mental space to focus on his studies, take on leadership roles and participate more fully in university life.

Giving Back, On and Off Campus

Beyond academics, Mashoud makes the most of his time at SIT. A sports enthusiast, he plays for the university’s Hockey Club and is its immediate former President, while also taking up boxing externally. He is active in SIT’s Vanguard leadership programme and participates in the university’s mentorship initiative, where he guides and supports younger students as they adjust to campus life.

Looking Ahead

Having completed a cycle of clinical practice, Mashoud looks forward to further opportunities to hone his skills and learn from experienced clinicians. He hopes to specialise in areas such as Operational Angiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the future.

More than professional success, Mashoud hopes to lead a life guided by purpose and responsibility. Growing up with limited resources has taught him self-belief and independence. He offers this advice to those facing challenges: 

“Look into your potential – what you can be – and work towards that. Be someone others can look up to and not just someone passing by.”

As he looks ahead, Mashoud remains focused on learning, growing and doing his best in each stage of his journey. With the lessons he carries and the support he has received, he steps forward with confidence – ready for what comes next.