Believe in the

On some days when you feel big goals are impossible, or when you feel like giving up, you need to lean on your like-minded community. Here, you can “borrow” motivation, and in turn “return” with your own inspiring stories to pay it forward.

power of community

Marsya Ruzana Aw

First Principles Education

Website: https://firstprinciples.com.sg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firstprinciplesedu/

LinkedIn: https://sg.linkedin.com/company/first-principles-education

First Principles Education focuses on teaching students how to learn, not just how to achieve better grades. Our data-driven approach, backed by proprietary research, tailors programs to each student’s needs, nurturing lifelong learning habits and preparing them for academic success and future challenges.

I’ve always been deeply passionate about addressing the challenges in our education system, and over the years, I’ve made it my personal mission to find a solution. One of the biggest problems I see is that many students in Singapore struggle with independent learning—they simply don’t know how to study effectively on their own.

With over eight years of experience as a tutor, I’ve come to realize that tuition isn’t the solution; it’s just a temporary fix. Tuition often becomes a crutch for students, leaving them unable to cope when it’s no longer available. Worse, it adds extra stress and workload, which can weigh heavily on their overall well-being.

I was drawn to join First Principles Education as a full-time educator because it offers something different—a real solution. By teaching students how to learn and helping them develop strong study habits, we empower them to become independent, confident learners who can succeed without constant external support. This approach aligns perfectly with my vision of transforming education and truly equipping students for lifelong learning.

Challenge 1: Transitioning from being a full-time tutor to taking on a leadership role at First Principles Education was a significant shift for me. While I was confident in my teaching abilities, managing a team and developing innovative programs required a completely different skill set.

How I Overcame It: I actively sought advice and mentorship from people who were already excelling in similar leadership roles. Their insights helped me adapt, and I dedicated time to learning new skills like program design and team management. Surrounding myself with supportive colleagues also made the transition smoother.

Challenge 2: Balancing my personal life as a mother of two (soon to be three!) with a demanding professional role has been an ongoing challenge. There were moments when it felt overwhelming to manage both effectively.

How I Overcame It: I focused on time management and setting clear priorities. I also leaned on a strong support system—both at home and at work—to ensure I could give my best to my family and my career. Learning to embrace flexibility and give myself grace during tougher moments has been key.

Key Advice: Whenever I faced difficulties, I found it invaluable to talk to people who were already at a place where I aspired to be. Their experiences and guidance provided me with clarity and actionable steps to move forward.

What excites me most is the opportunity to work with and meet so many creative, passionate, and hopeful individuals who are dedicating their time and energy to shaping the next generation. It’s inspiring to be part of a community that’s committed to helping young minds grow and empowering them to reach their full potential.

“Learning never stops.” I believe that growth and self-improvement are lifelong journeys. Whether in academics, personal development, or professional life, there’s always something new to discover, refine, and master. This mindset drives everything I do, from helping students become independent learners to continuously evolving in my own career and personal life.

I love to read—it’s my go-to for unwinding and self-care. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, mangas, or comics, I’m a big reader and enjoy immersing myself in different stories and perspectives. It’s the perfect way to recharge and escape into another world, even if just for a little while.

My advice is that confidence and empowerment start with the people and influences around you. Surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you to be your best—both physically and mentally. Be mindful of the media you consume, as it shapes your thoughts and self-perception. Choose positivity, encouragement, and content that fuels your growth and reminds you of your strength.

I’m incredibly grateful to work at this organisation. Truly. Their forward-thinking approach has given me the opportunity to live my dream every day—prioritising my family while also making a meaningful impact on today’s youth. It’s a privilege to be part of an organisation that aligns so closely with my values and aspirations.

There’s no such thing as a right or wrong decision—there’s only regret. When faced with choices, always go with the one that you believe will leave you with the least regrets. Trust your instincts, take that leap of faith, and remember that every step, even the challenging ones, is part of your growth and journey toward your dreams.

You can’t do it all—and that’s perfectly okay. It’s important to acknowledge your limits, prioritise what truly matters, and let go of the rest. Build a strong community of support around you, and don’t hesitate to lean on them when needed. Most importantly, pick your battles wisely and focus your energy where it makes the most impact.