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More than 5,500 students graduated from SP in May 2026, including institutional medallists Sophia Lai and Victoria Ann Gore Tay, whose journeys were shaped by strong support systems, resilience, and a desire to pursue meaningful careers. Sophia Lai, 20, received the Tan Kay Yong Gold Medal, awarded to top-performing graduates from design and creative courses. After struggling with burnout, emotional challenges and poor academic results during secondary school, she found healing through art and journaling. At SP, where she pursued a Diploma in Media, Arts & Design (Creative Community Engagement with Psychology), counselling support helped her reshape her perspective and combine her interests in art, mental health, and community service. Her projects included using art to discuss mental health with students in Cambodia and creating an exhibition to raise awareness about interacting with people with autism on public transport. She plans to pursue a degree in social work at the NUS. Another graduate, Victoria Ann Gore Tay, 23, received the Tay Eng Soon Gold Medal as the most outstanding graduate who previously studied at the Institute of Technical Education. She completed a Diploma in Human Resource Management with Psychology at SP while working part-time throughout her three years of study to reduce the financial burden on her single mother. Despite balancing work and academics, she earned a place on the Director’s Honour Roll for two consecutive years. Through internships and exposure to different fields, she discovered an interest in finance and plans to further her studies in the field at either NUS or SMU. 

[The Straits Times]