Richard Wong Ming Hao

“At first, thermodynamics felt like another challenging engineering subject, full of equations, calculations and concepts to master for exams. But over time, I began to see how surprisingly relevant it is to everyday life.

One idea that stayed with me is efficiency. In engineering, we ask how to get the most useful output from the energy available while minimising losses. Life is much the same.

Between lectures, assignments, studying and other commitments, I cannot give 100% every day. I used to think productivity meant simply doing more. Thermodynamics taught me to think differently: perhaps it is not about doing more, but using our energy wisely.
Then there is entropy. Without continuous effort, systems naturally become more disordered. I see that in my own life too. When I stop organising my studies, schedule and priorities, things can quickly become messy. It made me realise that balance requires constant attention.

Thermodynamics is no longer just about ΔH and ΔS. It has given me a different way of understanding myself.

Energy is limited. Losses are real. Efficiency matters. And perhaps engineering is not only about designing better systems – it is also about learning to manage ourselves within the systems we live in.”- Richard Wong Ming Hao, Energy Engineering student

27 September 2026