CCDS Connect 2025: A Glimpse into the Heart of Our Community

The energy at CCDS Connect 2025 was undeniable.

Held on Saturday, 10 May at the Raffles City Convention Centre, this year’s undergraduate welcome event brought together over 200 prospective students for a day of candid conversations, real stories, and a vibrant preview of the College of Computing and Data Science (CCDS) experience.

More than just an academic showcase, CCDS Connect placed community front and centre. The event served as a space for students, faculty, and alumni to come together, not to impress, but to connect; to offer insights into the real joys, pressures, and meaning behind a CCDS education.

Student Voices: Honest Reflections from the Ground

The afternoon opened with a lively segment hosted by student emcees Shruti Kannan (Year 2, Computer Engineering) and Ng Tze Kean (Year 4, Computer Science), who sparked off a casual but engaging exchange among current students. From managing time during project-heavy weeks to finding unexpected friendships in computing tutorials, the stories were raw, funny, and relatable.

 

“Look up from your devices every now and then. Smile at your friends, and before you know it, they’ll smile back.” – Dr Smitha

 

Welcome Address: Why CCDS, Why Now?

Associate Professor Goh Wooi Boon delivered a welcome message that cut through the gloss. He acknowledged the challenges of a rigorous computing education, sharing his own story of adapting to new technologies by leaning on strong fundamentals. His message was simple: computing is not easy, but it is worth it.

Alumni Panel: Paths, Pitfalls, and Purpose

Our alumni guests brought the room to life with their reflections. Moderated by Tze Kean and Shruthi, the panel included:
- Russel Loh Weibin, VP Software Engineer, Goldman Sachs (Class of 2018)
- Aryani Paramita, Sr Manager, Singtel (Class of 2017)
- Foo Chee Yong, Senior Data Engineer, Newport Tank Containers (Class of 2016)
- Pan Zhengxiang Jedi, Research Scientist, NTU-LILY (Class of 2014)

They spoke about winding paths, pursuing passion, and embracing detours. Aryani summed it up best: “Follow what excites you. That’s how you build a career that keeps growing with you.”

Faculty Panel: Truth, Support, and a Bit of Tough Love

In a panel marked by both humour and candour, CCDS faculty shared what students can expect.

 

We treat you like adults. So we expect you to behave like one.” – Assoc Prof Sun Aixin, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Education

There’s no such thing as a wrong decision. You make the best of it and adapt as you go.” – Assoc Prof Goh Wooi Boon

I won’t lie. It’s hard and it will be stressful. But we will support you. There’s no shame in seeking help.” – Mr Oh Hong Lye, Assistant Dean, Student Affairs

 

The underlying message? A CCDS education is not just about mastering technical knowledge; it’s about growing as people, learning how to think, adapt, and work with others.

Looking Ahead

As CCDS continues to expand its reach and evolve with the demands of the digital age, one thing remains constant: its belief in people. Thank you to everyone who joined us at CCDS Connect 2025. We can’t wait to welcome the next generation of builders, thinkers, and leaders into our community.