What if communication could do more than just inform, but transform as well? For Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) scholar Jerlynn Tay, a memorable moment at Marina Bay Sands proved that storytelling isn’t just her craft, it’s her calling.

Jerlynn Tay. (Photo: BrightSparks)

Communication can be a lifeline, a bridge that connects people, ideas, and communities. For Jerlynn Tay, this belief has guided every step of her journey — from earning a diploma in Mass Communication at Republic Polytechnic to pursuing a degree in Digital Communications and Integrated Media (DCIM)* at SIT.

When Inspiration Struck

As her graduation from polytechnic approached, Jerlynn stood at a crossroads. Pivot into social work to help others more directly, or stay in communications?

The answer arrived unexpectedly in 2023 at Marina Bay Sands, where she noticed a group of Japanese tourists using sign language to communicate with one another. Moved, she wrote a short note of encouragement and handed it over — only to discover that five of the seven could speak and hear. They translated her message from English to Japanese, then into sign language for their deaf friends. “It struck a chord in my heart. I realised that this is what communication can do, that I can be a bridge between information and resources, and the people who need them,” Jerlynn recounted. This encounter affirmed her calling and showed her how communication could be a tool for empowerment and empathy.

The encounter crystallised everything. Communication itself could create meaningful change, connecting people to resources and support in ways direct aid alone sometimes cannot. While exploring university options, Jerlynn visited SIT’s website and felt a connection. “I saw SIT as the right choice because of its grounded spirit and mission to serve others, which assured me I could grow and be challenged alongside like-minded peers and supportive staff,” she shared. SIT’s values — embodied in the SITizen-DNA — made her feel at home, reflecting her own aspirations to communicate for social impact.

A Scholarship That Recognised Her DNA

When she applied to SIT, she received a surprise along with her admission: a scholarship.

“I received the scholarship together with my admission offer. It was later that I realised this scholarship is awarded at the point of admissions, where suitability is assessed during the admissions interview itself,” she recalled.

She believes the selection reflected her alignment with the SITizen-DNA — four key traits: Thinking Tinkerer, Catalyst for Transformation, Grounded in the Community, and the ability to Learn, Unlearn & Relearn. “I believe my gap year working with refugees after polytechnic played a big part too, as it demonstrated how I put my values into action,” she added.

The scholarship became a gateway to growth, placing her at the heart of SIT’s key events. Through these hands-on roles, she honed her communication, leadership, and event-hosting skills.

Sharpening Her Communication Toolkit

The DCIM degree programme has stretched Jerlynn in new directions. Her diploma taught her to craft compelling stories and produce multimedia content. DCIM adds strategy, analytics, and integrated communication to that foundation. “I’ve learnt to combine creativity with data and storytelling with strategy — preparing me not only to tell stories, but to use them to create meaningful and lasting impact,” she shared.

One module struck particularly close to home: ‘Historically and Globally Informed Digital Media Production’. The assignment challenged her to turn the camera inward. “Through the module, I produced a short film about my reconciliation with my father, the difficult moments in my childhood, and how I eventually came to understand the phrase ‘our parents are first-time parents too’,” she said, adding that she enjoyed using her skills to tackle a meaningful topic that could inspire her classmates.

Jerlynn Tay. (Photo: BrightSparks)

Lessons from Leadership

Beyond academics, Jerlynn actively developed her leadership skills as a SITizen Ambassador (SAm). Serving across the Admissions & Financial Aid and Corporate Communications teams, she represented SIT at key events, from Welcome Day and Convocation to sustainability initiatives and MOU signings. She even hosted dignitaries such as Senior Minister of State Dr Janil Puthucheary at the official opening of the SIT Punggol Campus.

Earlier this year, she was elected President of the inaugural SITizen Ambassador Exco, serving and leading alongside six other students with diverse experiences and backgrounds. She describes the role as a lesson in leadership: “Leadership isn’t just about being good at what you do. It’s about the time and effort you‘re willing to invest in the people in your team, to genuinely care for them and walk alongside them. True chemistry comes when you understand each other and carry each other’s hearts in the work you do.”

Staying Ready to Grow

Looking ahead, Jerlynn hopes to use her skills and experiences to make a meaningful impact wherever she goes. She will soon begin her Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP), a distinctive feature of SIT’s applied learning approach. DCIM students immerse themselves in a real work environment for eight months, gaining in-depth industry experience which bridges classroom learning with professional practice. “I want to always remain humble and curious to learn so that I can serve others with my best self and skills!” she enthused.

Having experienced how SIT’s hands-on learning and values shaped her growth, Jerlynn encourages prospective students to reflect on their fit before applying.

She advised, “Being aligned gives you a greater sense of purpose and ownership, making your journey here more meaningful and rewarding. Also, brace yourself for a fast-paced environment, know what you’re signing up for, and walk in with your eyes, heart, and mind open!”

*This degree programme has since been renamed Bachelor of Business in Communication and Digital Media.

This article first appeared on BrightSparks.