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How DAS Helped Benjamin Navigate His Path to A Maritime Career

Written by Rizwana Fatima

When Benjamin Lim graduated from the DAS in 2013, he walked away with improved literacy skills, and a renewed sense of confidence that he could chart his own path. Today, Benjamin is living out the dream he discovered as a young boy: working in the maritime industry after completing a Diploma in Nautical Studies at Singapore Polytechnic.

Anchored by Skills That Changed His Life

During his years at DAS, Benjamin learned one of the most impactful strategies that shaped his learning journey: breaking down long or unfamiliar words. This simple skill became a turning point for him. It allowed him to navigate difficult texts with greater ease, shifting his focus from decoding words to understanding concepts.

Reflecting on his time at DAS, Benjamin shared, “DAS helped me build a strong foundation in reading and learning. The techniques I learned still guide me today.”

Finding Support and Joy in Learning

Before DAS, Benjamin struggled to stay engaged in lessons because he often could not make sense of what was taught. “What the teacher said often didn’t seem to match what was written on the board,” he recalled. Everything changed when he joined DAS. He found teachers who understood his struggles, taught in ways that worked for him, and always went the extra mile. Lessons were as enjoyable as they were helpful. Benjamin especially credits his DAS Educational Therapists, Ms Cara, Ms Rachel, and Ms Rahayu, who shaped both his academic and personal journey.

Charting a Course Toward the Sea

Benjamin’s fascination with the sea began in primary school when he first joined the sailing club. That early exposure sparked a curiosity that never left him. While awaiting his O-Level results, he found himself drawn to documentaries about ships, which deepened his passion and opened his eyes to the possibilities of a life at sea.

This calling ultimately led him to pursue Nautical Studies at Singapore Polytechnic and, today, a fulfilling career in the maritime field.

Applying Lessons from DAS into Real Life

The lessons Benjamin learned at DAS continue to support him, especially in tackling clerical tasks and communicating effectively with colleagues. He shares that these strategies have helped him articulate and pronounce words more clearly, which is an important skill in a fast-moving, safety-focused environment like the maritime industry.

What’s Next for Benjamin

From only beginning to read independently at age 11 to pursuing higher studies in a field he loves, Benjamin has come a long way.

His next goal? To work his way up the ranks and one day become a ship captain! This is a dream he’s been steering toward since his childhood.

When asked what keeps him going during tough moments, his answer is a powerful reminder of grit and gratitude: “The thought of disappointing those who believed in me pushed me through tough times. And I tell myself, ‘If this is what it takes to reach my goal, then I’ll do it!’

A Message of Hope to Learners with Dyslexia

To current DAS students, Benjamin shares heartfelt advice drawn from his own journey: “Do not give up on reading. By conquering this obstacle, many of life’s challenges will become easier.”

Whether you are a parent or a past DAS student, if you have a story to share, reach out to us at [email protected]

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