Growing up, William Tay was no stranger to misunderstandings that arise from his hearing disability. His attempts to clarify what was taught in class were often mistaken by classmates as him not paying attention. After all, William looks just like any other students. How could he not have caught what the teacher said? 

Unknown to his primary school classmates, William has central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) which affects the brain’s ability to process information received.  

William faces challenges in processing speech when they are fast or unclear, or when it takes place in loud and noisy environments.   

“In my early school days, I struggled to make friends as not many understood my condition. It was also difficult for me to interact with my classmates. My studies were also affected as I couldn’t keep up with the lessons.”      

Things took a better turn in secondary school when William started using an assistive listening device that helps to minimise background noise. Now, he can hear what others say more clearly even in a noisy environment.  

The 22-year-old also works harder to catch up on his studies. After class consultations with his teachers and extra revision hours are a part of William’s routine. 

The chirpy young man is not afraid to admit that there were times that he felt like giving up, but his family’s encouragement motivates him to forge ahead.  

“My parents have sacrificed a lot for me and always cheer me up when I am down. I keep reminding myself not to compare with others, and I believe that nothing is impossible. No matter how long it takes, we still stand a chance of achieving our goals as long as we persevere and work hard.” 

His grit and efforts paid off when he graduated as the top student in Republic Polytechnic (RP)’s Diploma in Pharmaceutical Science. His accomplishment was due in large part to his supportive lecturers, he said. 

“CAPD is not a condition that many know about. The fact that my lecturers made the effort to understand more so that they can better support me is something that I’m very appreciative of,” said William. 

Grateful for the help that he had received, William actively seeks to pay it forward. For instance, he puts his pharmaceutical knowledge to good use by explaining to low-income families on how to take medications during a volunteering stint. His kind acts have won him the Harvard Prize Book (Singapore) in 2021, an award that acknowledges and encourages altruism. 

Last year, he was also one of three recipients of the Asia Pacific Breweries (APB) Foundation Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities that recognises undergraduates with stellar academic results and community service. 

As he moves on to his second year at the National University of Singapore, the chemistry undergraduate is now one step closer to achieving his dream of working in the drug research industry. He also looks forward to playing his part in advocating for the disabled community through the APB Foundation Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities.