Navy Success Story

A Career Unlike Any Other Never wanting to settle for a mundane desk-bound job, LTA Andria Tan, a naval officer and sailor from SAFYC, chose to embark on an unconventional and purposeful career path with the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).

It was a perfect fit for the girl who fell in love with the sea since young and she has never looked back on her career choice. Read on to find out more about her journey in the RSN!

Share with us what sparked your interest in a career with the RSN? LTA Tan: When I was about to graduate from polytechnic, I was thinking about my career prospects and did not want a desk-bound job. I had just completed Diploma of Psychology Studies in Temasek Polytechnic and while I enjoyed what I was studying, I realised I preferred being more active, which is why I thought a career in the Singapore Armed Forces would be ideal for me.

Given that I started sailing when I was 11 years old, I absolutely love being out at sea. By joining the RSN, I would be able to continue doing what I love and explore beyond the horizon. Most importantly, I would also be able to do my part to serve the nation.

Can you tell us more about the life and culture in the RSN? LTA Tan: I would describe life in the RSN as dynamic. The job scope evolves across time and there’s always something new to learn, which makes the job more exciting and less mundane. As for the culture in the RSN, I would say that its like a family. Everyone looks out for one another, even outside of work!

I had once participated in a Spartan Race with my ship crew because they wanted to go for the event together. We were less than prepared for the race itself, but I thoroughly enjoyed the bonding experience with the rest of my ship crew! What do you find fulfilling in your everyday work? LTA Tan: I find being able to play a part in the defence of our country as fulfilling in my everyday work. While Singapore is in a time of peace, it is not something to be taken for granted. As such, being able to contribute in my own ways to deterrence as well as diplomacy, it makes me feel that I can safeguard our way of life which includes my loved ones.

Which is your most defining moment in the RSN so far? LTA Tan: My most defining moment in the RSN thus far is when I attained my Certificate of Competency (COC) on board the frigate as a Midshipman. At the young age of 20, I was humbled to be granted the responsibility of overseeing the frigate in the harbour. It was the first time I felt that I could contribute to the ship harbour operations. Have you done any crazy things in the RSN? LTA Tan: To me, being granted the responsibility of overseeing the frigate in the harbour is pretty crazy itself. In other words, it’s pretty astounding how the RSN trusts people as young as myself to take care and be incharge of a ship in harbour.

LTA Andria Tan (centre) with her parents who wholeheartedly supported her decision to join the RSN.

LTA Andria Tan (second from left) with her sailing teammates.

What advice would you give to those who are looking to join the RSN? LTA Tan: If you’re looking for a challenge, look no further than the RSN. It may seem daunting but you can be rest assured to find a place in the Navy family that would be there for you.