Dynamic duos: Meet the twins with matching dreams

Michiryu Aquila and Michio Apollos: Enhancing public health through food science

Sharing an interest in Science since young, Aquila (left) and Apollos (right) were drawn to the novelty and applicability of Food Science and Technology.

A curiosity about a scientific discipline they were not exposed to before led fraternal twins Michio Apollos and Michiryu Aquila to pursue their undergraduate studies together at the Department of Food Science and Technology (FST) under the NUS Faculty of Science.

From a young age, the duo has always shared a common interest in the sciences, and was drawn to both the novelty and relevance of food science and technology to everyday life.

“Food science is relevant to a lot of people and there’s a human connection. For example, I can learn about healthy eating and, in turn, teach others to do the same,” said older brother Aquila, who graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology with Honours (Distinction), citing the aspect which influenced the brothers’ decisions to take up a Minor in Public Health as well.

“Food is an industry that is growing and quite in demand. There are a lot of companies trying to develop novel foods and I believe that the potential is great,” added Apollos who is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology with Honours (Highest Distinction) at their commencement ceremony on 12 July 2024.

For the twins, studying the same course strengthened their bond. On top of sharing the same schedule and group of friends, they also had the opportunity to collaborate on projects offered to them at NUS.

For instance, under NUS’ Design-Your-Own-Course scheme, they embarked on a journey to create an e-book which aimed to educate people about the science behind eggs. Over several months, they developed the content together with a groupmate, with Aquila and the groupmate illustrating the book, too. Their hard work eventually paid off – they clinched first prize at the inaugural geNiUSbooks awards, a competition launched by the University to recognise creative video and eBook resources produced by the NUS community.

They have also won individual awards. Apollos achieved the Kerry Prize, an award offered to NUS Food Science and Technology majors by Kerry Ingredients Singapore, for his outstanding academic results while Aquila received the A*STAR Research Internship Award during his internship stint.

Post-graduation, their bond remains unbreakable. The two hope to further their studies in human health and nutrition and eventually pursue a career in research.

Source: NUS News