Read on to discover how the ambitious pharmacist explored her talent and ignited her passion in public speaking:

Does this sound familiar? I think so…

“You better get a professional job as it earns more money.” “With such a good result, you should get yourself a professional degree; don’t waste it.” “Your neighbour is working as a doctor; he is living such a good life…”

Yes, I’ve been receiving those buzzing comments from the “kepo”(s), so many times that I already lost count of them. As science stream students, our career options are always limited to doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists, engineers, bio-technologists and the list of professions goes on.

Caught up in the herd mentality, we tend to neglect our dreams to look good in front of others; which is very much the Asian culture. Just because of the noises around (the comments and opinions from neighbours or family to be exact), we let our inner voices go unheard and jump into a decision without having our life purpose all figured out. Yet, the same happened on me.

Fortunately, I managed to escape from the herd society half-way! Yet, the saying “path to success is to take massive, determined action” by Tony Robbins spoke my effort. After stepping into the pharmaceutical journey that was encouraged by the herd environment, I did not give up on my interest and talent in public speaking due to the empowerment from my church leaders.

I set my goal to be a professional multilingual emcee, holding the ambition to speak and inspire people. Reminiscing my first day at university, I saw a gentleman who kept on talking in front of the first-year crowd at all orientations. I guessed he should be the student leader. I wrote my personal details, talents and interest on a piece of paper, approached this total stranger, introduced myself briefly and passed him the note. The whole conversation only lasted for less than 30 seconds.

Yet, that’s the point of time when I embarked into my emcee career and started to host on prestigious events with a crowd of 2,000 people. I started from nowhere, but of my little faith and courage.

To date, I am thankful to have much experiences in hosting various functions, notably having the honour to host the Malaysia Largest Lion Dance “Eye-Dotting” event which was recognised in the Malaysia Book of Records.

Most recently, I was beyond pleased to host the Nanyang Business Award 2019 and met people from all walks of life. Better still, as a former emcee coach, I was glad to initiate a Talk Show with a panel of six and the response from audience was overwhelming!

It was never easy juggling with both my pharmacy and emcee profession. However, my burning desire in achieving my life purpose and ambition is keeping me going after all these years.

Here’s my shout out to all the graduates out there – don’t waste your time living someone else’s life. Do what your heart desires because this is what makes you a successful individual. Once you discover it, treasure it, pursue it and realise it.

Bernice Choy