Felica Tan Hwee Ling: Discovering New Pathways Through Digital Communication

Felica Tan

Felicia Tan Hwee Ling, who came from a pure Science background, pursued a Master of Social Sciences in Communication after her Sunway experience shifted her educational path. Initially enrolled in the Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) with a different plan, she continued her studies at Sunway University through the Jeffrey Cheah Continuing Scholarship, now known as the Jeffrey Cheah ACE Scholarship, in the BA (Hons) in Communication program.

During the program, Felica developed a greater interest in the media and communication industry, learning about the complexities of communication through various modes. The program equipped her with creative, academic, and professional writing skills, as well as basic knowledge of technical applications like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and Qualtrics. She valued the guidance and expertise of qualified lecturers such as Dr Pauline Leong, Dr Catherine Lee, and Mr Philip Cheong, who served as her inspiration.

Motivated to explore communication further, Felica focused on the impact of digitalization on the media and communication landscape and governance. She was intrigued by the challenges of thriving in a volatile digital climate, with digital audiences influenced by the attention economy. Prior to graduating, Felica decided to pursue further studies in digital communication, data, and society, which was solidified during a compulsory 12-week internship that emphasized the importance of digital skills for future readiness.

Felica's passion led her to the National University of Singapore (NUS), where she was accepted for her MSocSci in Communication, specializing in Data and Communication. She expressed her gratitude for the BA (Hons) in Communication program at Sunway, as it provided a foundation in advertising, public relations, and corporate communication relevant to her current course.

Looking back, Felica cherishes the amazing and enriching student life she experienced at Sunway, appreciating the warm welcome and support she received despite being far from home. The strategic location and available resources eased her worries, while the Sunway experience allowed her to forge lifelong friendships. She fondly remembers studying in the library and School of Arts floor and enjoying meals at Rock Café and the nearby Garlic Roasted Chicken Rice store.

As Felica continues her graduate program at NUS, she encourages current Sunway students to make the most of their student life and embrace the beautiful and vibrant campus. She highlights the abundance of resources available and the convenience offered by the link bridge to Sunway Pyramid. Her advice to students is to work hard, nurture curiosity, and embrace both opportunities and adversities, while taking pride in being a Sunwayian.

“Most importantly, take pride in being a Sunwayian. All the very best!”