S’pore Actor Collin Chee’s Daughter Pursues Master’s At LSE; Worked At SIA For 3 Years To Cover London Living Costs

Apart from hefty school fees, studying abroad often comes with another major expense: the cost of living.

For many, that means working and saving up before finally pursuing their studies overseas.

That's exactly what local actor Collin Chee's eldest daughter, Jia Ying, did.

The 59-year-old actor recently shared on Instagram that Jia Ying has enrolled at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), where she is reportedly pursuing a Master's degree in Psychological and Behavioural Science.

“Daughter, Daddy wishes you all the best," wrote Collin. "My daughter arrived in the UK yesterday to begin her one-year master’s degree programme."

He revealed that they had afternoon tea the day before she left, during which Jia Ying shared the goals she hopes to achieve during her time in London.

“My child has grown up and is finally going out to see the bigger world. Although my daughter and I don’t see each other often, whenever we do, there is always so much to talk about," he gushed.

"Daughter, my biggest wish for you this year is to give you my blessings. Go out there and pursue your dreams, and spread your wings without worry."

Collin also reminded his daughter that he believes in her and will "always be [her] strongest pillar of support" no matter how far she goes.

In an interview with zaobao.sg, Collin revealed that after graduating from the National University of Singapore (NUS) with a degree in Psychology, Jia Ying worked in Singapore Airlines' human resources department for three years to save up for her overseas studies.

“Her tuition fees were pooled together with help from the family, while her living expenses were paid for with the money she saved from working," he said.

"Altogether, the expenses come to around S$90,000.”

Collin also confessed that he shed some tears before his daughter left.

“But they were tears of happiness too, and I was very emotional. After all, time passes so quickly," he explained.

"Watching my children grow up and become independent, each with lives of their own, makes me feel very gratified as a father.”

Jia Ying is Collin's daughter with his ex-wife, whom he divorced in 2019. The former couple have another daughter and two sons, and Collin is said to be on good terms with all four of his children.

“Jia Ying has always had a strong personality and is full of determination. Her mother is currently accompanying her to London to help her settle in. I’ll probably fly to the UK to visit her before the end of the year," he said.