Aaron Lim didn’t expect that picking up Java online would one day help him land a scholarship to study in Singapore. Today, the 23-year-old Penang native is about to graduate from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, with a Bachelor of Computing (Hons) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence — all funded through the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship.
As he prepares to wrap up this chapter, Aaron reflects on the moments, mistakes, and milestones that shaped him. Here’s his story.
From Penang to NTU: A Different Kind of Success
Aaron completed his secondary education at Chung Ling Private High School, earning 6As in SPM and full As in UEC. The UEC (Unified Examination Certificate) is a standardized exam taken by students from independent Chinese high schools in Malaysia (Sekolah Menengah Persendirian Cina, or SMPC). Administered by the United Chinese School Committees Association (Dong Zong), the UEC is recognized by many local and international universities as a qualification for tertiary education.
- Name: Aaron Lim Kang Wei
- Age: 23
- Hometown: Penang
- Secondary School: Chung Ling Private High School
- SPM Results: 6 As
“I wasn’t a straight-A SPM student, but UEC played a huge role in my scholarship journey,” Aaron shared. Despite strong results, he admits that back then, he wasn’t 100% sure about what he wanted to do.
Honestly, you won’t be sure what you want to do — and that’s okay. Pick any 5–10 university graduates and most of them won’t have a clear answer either. The key is to explore beyond the classroom.
While most students chase general Computer Science or Engineering, Aaron leaned into his strengths in Math and his fascination with AI. “Data is the modern currency of business. With Malaysia and Singapore growing their tech ecosystems, I wanted to be at the centre of that shift.”
After researching his options and taking online Java and SQL courses, he applied to NTU — and got in with a full ride.
Why You Shouldn’t (Just) Study
University life in Singapore was a cultural melting pot for Aaron. He met friends from across Southeast Asia, bonded with Singaporean classmates, and joined various school clubs. “Super diverse,” he says with a smile.
But what shaped him most weren’t just lectures or group assignments — it was everything outside the classroom.
Aaron joined hackathons, volunteered to teach code to kids, packed food for the underprivileged, and took part in the International Council of Malaysian Scholars, where he built sponsor relationships and supported others exploring career paths in the consulting & startup ecosystem.
“I get bored easily, especially with studies,” he admits. “I’m not saying don’t go to class — but please, don’t isolate yourself. Talk to your professors, join events, and make friends outside your course.”
The Biggest Challenge?
One of the hardest parts of the journey, Aaron says, was managing time between different interests — sports, volunteering, Malaysian communities, academic projects, internships, and more.
“It was crazy, but with proper planning and great people, it worked out.”
Aaron also believes it’s completely normal to shift your interests as you grow. During his university years, his passions evolved every few months — a reminder that exploration is part of the journey. He encourages students to stay open to new paths, especially when they’re still figuring out what truly excites them.
Have a co-curricular story that reflects your personal development. Be clear on why you want to study this course at this university. Try to think from a scholarship provider’s perspective, would you invest thousands of dollars on this person?
While grades are still a strong filter — “Back then, people without a full A wouldn’t make the cut,” he says — Aaron believes that storytelling matters just as much.
Study Smarter, Not Harder (Literally)
Aaron’s journey reminds us that academic excellence isn’t a one-size-fits-all path – and with the right support system, every student can find their unique rhythm. Today’s students, especially SPM school leavers, have access to tools that weren’t as common a few years ago – tools that can help them learn smarter, not harder.
“Learning doesn’t have to be limited to pen and paper. With the right tools, it can be collaborative, insightful, and even fun!” Aaron shares. “Pandai brings this to life through gamified learning – from structured lesson plans and AI chatbots that answer questions instantly; to smart analytics that help students identify their weak spots, and even real rewards like gaming credits and F&B vouchers.”
He adds, “I truly believe more schools should embrace education technology. If teachers understand how much value Pandai brings – not just for students, but also for themselves and parents – it could significantly reduce the friction in modern classrooms. The benefits are real for every role: Pandai Teacher, Pandai Student, and Pandai Parent.”
Just like how Aaron explored different paths before finding his place, today’s students can begin discovering their potential early – with a little help. Whether it’s through Pandai’s University Matching feature or Personality Quizzes, the journey doesn’t have to be unclear. SPM may be over, but your future is just getting started – and Pandai is here to help you find it.
What’s Next for Aaron?
With graduation around the corner, Aaron plans to enter the workforce, upskill in related tech fields, do more sports, and explore new interests. But most importantly, he wants to give back.
“One reason I joined Pandai as an intern is because I believe someone benefits from every new idea, every introduction of tech, every small change we push forward,” he says. “Better learning or better teaching — your choice.”
Aaron ends with a message of gratitude and encouragement:
We’re all fortunate to be where we are now, only because we stand on the shoulders of giants — our families, our teachers, our seniors, our friends. Find some time to pay it forward. Help the next group of ‘fortunate people’ who’ll come after you.
