Joel Tan, a newly minted Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical and Biological Sciences, recently captivated alumni at Harvard Medical School's graduation ceremony with a speech detailing his challenging academic journey.

Tan recounted a difficult start during his high school years in Singapore. He wanted to enroll in biology classes but was prevented due to insufficient secondary school grades. Consequently, Tan had to study other subjects without interest, graduating high school with C and D grades.

Many at the time believed he lacked the aptitude for university studies, a sentiment Tan himself shared after two consecutive years of applying to every domestic institution and receiving no offers. In his third year, he decided to pursue higher education abroad at the University of Toronto in Canada.

This marked a turning point in Tan's life. He took his first biology class, found a mentor, gained access to a laboratory, joined a research community, and began to envision his future through science. Tan subsequently pursued a master's degree before earning his PhD at Harvard.

"I am here today because people opened doors for me. I hope we will become those who open doors for others," Tan stated, lightheartedly admitting that in the beginning, he had to discreetly Google "restriction enzyme" during class because he "didn't understand what it was."

Tan's experience led him to reflect on the role of community and open opportunities in scientific careers. He believes that while talent is ubiquitous, opportunity is not. According to Tan, the most important task for graduating PhDs is to ensure others also receive the opportunities they had, fostering this through patience and openness rather than criticism and judgment.

Tan's 11-minute speech, posted on the university's YouTube channel, quickly garnered numerous congratulatory comments but also ignited a wave of debate in his home country, according to SCMP.

Joel Tan speaking at his PhD graduation ceremony at Harvard. Photo: Harvard Medical School/Youtube

Singapore is renowned for its high-achieving yet intensely competitive education system. Many experts contend that the greatest challenge for Singaporean educators today is to ensure that opportunities for advancement remain open to students who discover their aptitudes and passions later than their peers.

According to the QS World University Rankings 2027, released on 18/6/2027, the National University of Singapore was the sole Asian representative in the top 10. Another renowned institution from the country, Nanyang Technological University, secured the 12th position.

By Khanh Linh (compiled)