Are you one of those who just can’t resist taking a whiff every time you walk pass a department store’s fragrance counter? Just like everyone else, Singapore Polytechnic (SP) graduate Phoebe Tan always had a thing for fragrances since she was young. But little did she know that she would eventually find herself pursuing her passion in one of London’s most prestigious colleges, thanks to her penchant for scents!

Following her mother’s love for perfumes, Phoebe began to learn more about organic chemistry and its molecular relationship back in her secondary school days, which opened her eyes to the world of perfumery. Deciding to make it her calling, she enrolled into the Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science (DPCS) at SP and chanced upon an opportunity to be fast-tracked into the London College of Fashion’s (LCF) Masters in Cosmetic Science programme upon graduating. This was offered via a direct entry programme that is available for DPCS graduates.

“I was able to put my DPCS training to good use during my time in LCF, where I utilised my skills in research, presentation as well as report writing. All these really helped when I was working on my thesis,” she shares. “My Final Year Project was also nominated for the Promotion Award 2018 of the German Society of Perfumers in the SEPAWA (Soap, Perfume, Cosmetic and Detergent Experts Association) which was a big acknowledgement!”

Now a perfume specialist at Waft Perfume, Phoebe evaluates fragrances and also takes on a consultant role by providing fragrance expertise and knowledge. She is also working hard to build her mini lab at home to bring her one step closer to her goal of being a renowned perfumer, and eventually create her own unique fragrance.

Now that’s what we call the sweet scent of success!

Interested in finding out more about the Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science at Singapore Polytechnic? Head down to the SP Open House from 10 to 12 January 2019, 10am – 6pm to discover your options!