08/06/2026
Darren Lum trained in aeronautical engineering, but his time working at an optical shop and later an eye clinic shifted his career plans. Seeing how vision care could improve patients’ quality of life sparked his interest in optometry.
Looking to make a career switch, Darren applied to Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s Diploma in Optometry through the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) for Working Adults, which allows applicants to draw on relevant work experience and industry exposure when applying for a full-time diploma.
Today, the second-year student is gaining hands-on experience with industry-grade equipment such as the NP–EssilorLuxottica Vision Suite while developing the technical expertise and patient-care skills needed for a career in eye care.
For Darren, EAE gave him the opportunity to build on an interest developed through years in the industry and take a serious step towards a career in eye care.
If you have at least two years of relevant work experience and are considering a career switch or skills upgrade, EAE for Working Adults could be a pathway into a full-time diploma.
📆 EAE for Working Adults runs till 28 June.
Learn all about EAE 👉🏻 np.edu.sg/eae