From rushing between classes and pulling late-night study sessions to making lifelong friendships and discovering new passions, every NUS student leaves with a collection of memories that make their university journey uniquely their own.

As the Class of 2026 prepares to take the stage at Commencement, we invited graduating students to share some of their favourite moments from their time at NUS. Here are three stories that remind us of what makes the NUS experience so special!

1. From Brainstorm to First Place (by ASHRITH SRIRAM RAJU NADIMPALLI)

Ashrith (third from the left), Class of 2026 from College of Design and Engineering, posing for a photo after winning the Enterprise Development course final pitch

“The moment that captures NUS for me happened not in a lab or lecture hall, but in a pitch room standing in front of a panel, making the case for an idea we'd spent weeks sharpening. Our team won 1st place in the Enterprise Development course final pitch, competing under the Dyson challenge. What I remember most isn't the award itself, but the weeks before it: late nights stress-testing assumptions, teammates pushing back on each other's logic, and the strange satisfaction of turning a rough concept into something a real company found compelling. NUS gave me that not just technical depth in optical communications and network systems, but the confidence to think like an engineer and a problem-solver who can walk into any room and make the work land. The Dyson win was a reminder that the best ideas only matter if you can communicate them clearly. That lesson has shaped how I approach everything since.” 

2. The Journey That Changed Me (by LI JINANG)

Jinang, Class of 2026 from College of Design and Engineering, next to the #NUS sign in UTown 

“My journey at the National University of Singapore began in 2021 as a dream, and over the past five and a half years, it has beautifully transitioned into my reality. Completing my three-and-a-half-year undergraduate degree and seamlessly moving into my two-year master’s program has been the most transformative period of my life. NUS is more than just a campus to me; it is the exact place where I found my footing and my true voice. The rigorous academic environment and the incredibly supportive community pushed me beyond my limits, helping me discover a profound sense of self-belief. From late-night study sessions to achieving milestones I once thought were impossible, every challenge has built my character. NUS didn't just equip me with a world-class education; it fundamentally changed my life by making me a much more confident individual, ready to face the future.” 

3. More Than Just A Performance (by RAYMAND TAY JIA CHENG)

Raymand, Class of 2026 from College of Design and Engineering, posing for a photo with fellow Rag dancers on the UTown Green

“My favourite NUS memory must be joining Rag & Flag as a dancer for College of Design and Engineering. Having never been a dancer, let alone performed at such a massive event, stepping into those practice sessions was incredibly daunting, it was the ultimate leap out of my comfort zone! However, the countless late-night rehearsals quickly transformed from exhausting to exhilarating. Through the shared sweat and laughter, I met amazing friends from all walks of life, forging bonds that truly defined my university experience. Beyond the dazzling floats and energetic performances, Rag & Flag remains such a deeply meaningful NUS tradition because it unites the entire campus for a greater charitable cause. Looking back, those vibrant days of teamwork, personal growth, and giving back perfectly capture the spirit of NUS for me, a place where we grow not just academically, but as a community.” 

Meet Your New Graduation Buddy

Dressed in graduation attire and ready for Commencement, the NUS Grad Bears and Lions have become a favourite tradition among graduates.

Whether they're joining you in your graduation photos, sitting proudly on your desk, or serving as a reminder of your university days, they're the perfect way to celebrate this exciting achievement!

Available for Bachelor’s and PhD graduates, along with our exclusive 2026 Commencement Lapel Pins:

Enjoy $5 OFF Your Online Purchase

Planning to bring home a Grad Bear or Lion?

Use promo code:

26NUSGPOFF$5

to enjoy $5 OFF your online purchase.

⏰ Promotion ends on 8 July 2026, while stocks last.

*Promo code is applicable for online purchases only and cannot be used for purchases made in stores.

Complete Your Commencement Celebration

Looking for a few finishing touches for the big day?

Personalised Graduation Plaques

Celebrate your achievement with a customised plaque featuring your name and graduation details. It's a meaningful keepsake that you'll be proud to display for years to come!

Interested to see more designs? Click he re!

Graduation Flowers

Nothing brightens up Commencement Day quite like a beautiful bouquet! Whether you're celebrating a friend, family member, or yourself, flowers are the perfect addition to your graduation photos.

Above: Fresh Sunflower Bouquet with Graduation Plush Bear

Below: Fresh Gerbera Bouquet

Interested to see more designs? Click here!

Here's To New Beginnings

Every graduate has a story, and every story deserves to be celebrated.

As you prepare to cross the stage and begin your next adventure, take a moment to look back on the memories, friendships, and experiences that made your NUS journey unforgettable.

Congratulations, Class of 2026, we can't wait to celebrate with you!

Don't forget to enjoy $5 OFF your online Grad Bear or Lion purchase with promo code 26NUSGPOFF$5 by 8 July 2026!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This blog post is brought to you by NUS Co-op, a long-standing partner of the National University of Singapore. Beyond providing university supplies, gifts, and retail services to the NUS community, NUS Co-op proudly supports the University’s annual Commencement ceremonies through the sale of graduation merchandise and related services.