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As a third-year Communication Studies student from Nanyang Technological University, I had the opportunity to intern as a journalist at the Public Affairs Department (PAD) of the Singapore Police Force (SPF). During my internship, I conducted interviews and photoshoots for Police Life. Here’s my eight-week experience summed up in a soundtrack!
Track #1: Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) by Kelly Clarkson
Before my first day, I was gearing up for what I imagined would be the intense and disciplined nature of the Force. “SPF is no joke,” I thought to myself. “You better stand straight and greet everyone properly."
Within the first few days of my internship, I quickly realised there were other protocols to learn. At Police Life photoshoots, it wasn’t just about uniforms being neat or equipment in place. The real challenge was making sure officers looked their best while still capturing their natural, authentic side.
As for articles we wrote, every draft went through several rounds of review — within PAD and then with the officers featured — to ensure factual accuracy and clear messaging.
At first, the multiple checks tested my patience. I was used to fast university deadlines, so waiting for feedback and adjusting again (and again) felt frustrating. But as I went along, I understood that this process was a way to make sure our stories were accurate, respectful to the officers featured and still gave us space to write in our own voices.
Track #2: Midnight City by M83
During the second week of my internship, I had the opportunity to witness an enforcement operation in Geylang. On a busy Friday night, officers raided establishments suspected of harbouring illegal activities and conducted anti-drink driving checks.
Past midnight, I was fighting my yawns but the officers remained alert and focused. Arrests were made and vehicle checks were carried out with calm precision.
There was nothing flashy about the officers and their duties, but that, I realised, was the essence of policing. Our officers – whether on the frontlines or behind the scenes – are the steadfast guardians who keep Singapore safe every day.
Track #3: A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay
Apart from being awed by officers in action, I was touched by their character and heart behind the scenes.
Police Security Command officer Sergeant (Sgt) Emily Chan was the first officer I wrote about, after she helped save a man’s life while off-duty. During a break in our interview, Sgt Chan shared that she’s only told a few colleagues about the incident. Her supervisors only became aware of her actions after her fellow officers called her a “lifesaver".
“I didn’t want to bring any attention to myself; I was just doing my duty,” she said with a sheepish smile. In that moment, I was blown away by her humility and commitment to stepping up when it mattered most.
The next officer I spoke to was Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Esther Chan. The light in her eyes and smile on her face was so genuine, especially when she spoke about her calling to public service. When my colleague and I forgot to bring an SD card for the photoshoot, ASP Chan calmly reassured us and remained patient as we worked out a backup plan. Knowing that officers like ASP Chan serve our community warms my heart.
When I first met Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Alex Choo, I was rather intimidated. He was the Contingent Commander for the SPF’s Guard of Honour Contingent at this year’s National Day Parade and carried himself with confidence.
But as the photoshoot progressed and we got to know each other better, I realised he was just as approachable as any other officer I’d met. “Just text me if you have any follow-up questions,” he added with a smile at the end of the interview.
The last officer I interviewed was Sgt (V) Nur Ahmad Radhi. Unlike many other officers I’d spoken to, who were regular officers, he’s a Volunteer Special Constabulary (VSC) officer who serves the community while pursuing his full-time studies.
Our Police volunteers contribute significant hours to helping others despite their busy schedules. When we met for the photoshoot on 9 August 2025, Sgt (V) Nur Ahmad was just about to start his 12-hour shift. Seeing his dedication to duty, on the day that Singapore celebrated its 60th birthday, was incredibly humbling.
Track #4: End of Beginning by Djo
Eight weeks ago, I was just a university student stepping into the unknown – nervous and curious. But through every story and photoshoot I worked on, and every officer I had the privilege to meet, I witnessed the heart of the SPF.
I may be ending my internship, but the lessons I’ve learnt and the people I’ve met will continue to shape the way I see service and what it means to show up for others – even when no one is watching.
