Dawn graduated from the National University of Singapore (NUS) with a Bachelor of Science degree (Honours in Biomedical Science). She went on to obtain her Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Institute of Education.
Dawn began her teaching career with Temasek Junior College as a Biology lecturer and tutor from 2004 to 2011. Apart from her experience in teaching graduating classes, she was the Level Coordinator for Secondary 3 and 4 Biology in the Integrated Programme (IP) offered by the College and played a key role in the development of differentiated instructional programmes for both JC and IP students. Subsequently, Dawn held the appointment of Acting Deputy Head for Student Welfare. She was part of the core team of teachers that worked to develop the Civics curriculum for the 6-Year IP programme. Dawn was also appointed the Civics Coordinator for the Secondary 3 and 4 levels, in which she was involved in planning the schedule for Civics lessons and liaising with external organizations for motivational student talks. As the Sexuality Education Coordinator for the Secondary 3 and 4 levels, she worked with a team of teachers in reviewing and conducting sexuality education programmes within the school. Dawn was also a teacher mentor for the JC international scholars and a member of the College Timetabling Committee. Dawn was placed on the MOE Future Leaders Programme (FLP) for 3 consecutive years from 2009 to 2011.
Dawn has a keen interest in music. She enjoys playing the keyboard and guitar. Dawn believes that science and the arts are relevant to everyday life. She hopes to inspire in students who are focused on the arts a love for science too.