Dr Aruna Sivakumar

Senior Lecturer, Centre for Transport Studies, and Director, Urban Systems Lab, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

"Don't forget why you're here in the first place. It's the passion for your subject, and the excitement associated with solving problems that will keep you going. All else is just a passing phase. Much like parenthood! And much like parenthood, again, don't let the academic career take your life over. No matter what everyone else around you is doing. Creating the space to think, and not just 'do' at all times, is a necessary prerequisite for a stimulated intellect. I am constantly endeavouring to follow my own advice, but I'm convinced that it's the only way to enjoy a satisfying academic career."