[SFU OLC Experience] Adventures in the Lion City: A Semester to Remember

Program:

Study Abroad › Exchange

University

National University of Singapore

Location:

Singapore

Experience Faculty

Beedie School of Business

CNY Celebrations at Gardens by the Bay

Arrival Terminal at Changi Airport

Hiking the Monkey Forest

Go-to Meal at NUS Canteen

Famous Sungei Road Laksa

Resident Cat at NUS Utown

Tumpak Sewu, Indonesia

Indonesia Trip During Reading Break, Mt. Bromo

Experience Details

Semester

Spring

Year

2023

Introduction + Preparation

In anticipation of my exciting study abroad adventure in Singapore, thorough preparation was paramount to ensure a smooth transition into a new culture and environment. Here's how I prepared for my exchange program:

Financial Preparation

The combination of saving up from my co-op experience the previous term, student aid, and a study abroad award from Beedie allowed me to fund my travels comfortably. This financial stability provided peace of mind and ensured that I could fully immerse myself in the Singaporean experience without financial worries.

Packing

Knowing that Singapore boasts a tropical climate with high humidity, my wardrobe primarily consisted of breathable t-shirts and shorts, which not only kept me comfortable but also lightened my luggage load. I did bring a rain jacket, though, in anticipation of Singapore's frequent rain showers. However, I soon discovered that it was rarely used due to the warmth, and locals typically embraced the rain without rain jackets, a unique cultural experience.

Travel and Transportation

Upon my arrival at Singapore's renowned Changi Airport, I decided to take a taxi directly to my accommodation. This choice stemmed from my desire to avoid the challenge of navigating the unfamiliar subway system with heavy luggage. Those initial moments in Singapore filled me with anticipation and awe as I set foot in a new country, eager to explore its unique culture and vibrant atmosphere.

However, once I began using Singapore's efficient subway system, known as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), I developed a newfound appreciation for the city's public transportation infrastructure. The MRT system not only proved to be incredibly convenient and reliable but also allowed me to explore the city with ease. This experience highlighted Singapore’s commitment to sustainability and urban planning, setting the stage for countless memorable journeys throughout my exchange program

Preparation Tips for Future Students

One tip I'd like to share is to bring along old bedsheets and pillows that you don't mind leaving behind. This allowed me to sleep in a comfortable setting even though I was in an unfamiliar place. Having these familiar items from home provided a sense of coziness and made the transition to my new living space in Singapore much smoother.

During my Experience

Orientation and First Weeks

The first couple of weeks of my exchange experience in Singapore were a whirlwind of excitement. There were numerous exchange events organized by the school, and I also got involved in informal WhatsApp group chats. These events were fantastic opportunities to meet fellow exchange students from around the world, fostering new friendships that would last a lifetime. One standout event during this period was the orientation hosted by NUS's Bizad Club, the business club at NUS. It was a fun-filled day-long event that welcomed all NUS business school exchange students. We got to tour around the NUS campus while doing fun activities to bond with other exchangers and local students.

During those initial weeks, I embraced my inner tourist, eagerly exploring the vibrant country for the first time. Some highlights included hiking in the Monkey Forest, enjoying drinks at the lively Clarke Quay, and sampling culinary delights at various hawker centers, such as Maxwell and Lau Pa Sat. As a big foodie, Singapore felt like a paradise with its diverse and mouthwatering food options at the hawker centers.

Accommodation and Living

During my time in Singapore, I had the privilege of staying at the newly constructed housing wing within the NUS known as Lighthouse. Located in the Prince George's Park area, which is a bustling student housing hub adjacent to the NUS campus, Lighthouse provided a comfortable and inclusive living environment. NUS further facilitated my daily commute by operating an internal shuttle bus system, which was essential given the vast size of the campus. I often relied on this shuttle to commute from Prince George's Park to the NUS Business School building for my classes, which made my academic journey both efficient and enjoyable.

Learning and Adaptation

On the academic front, I was taking four courses, or "modules" as they call them in NUS. Three of these were business classes, while the fourth was an elective titled "Culture and Communication in Singapore." This elective piqued my interest since I was interested in the unique local pseudo-language called "Singlish”. The academic experience felt surprisingly familiar, resembling the lecture and tutorial format I was accustomed to at SFU. Moreover, Singapore's competitive bell curve system, implemented across all departments, was the same as in Beedie. Something I noticed was the Singaporean students' remarkable dedication to academics. I couldn't help but notice students diligently studying for their classes at the school even before the semester officially began.

Reflection & Tips

Reflection

As I look back on my study abroad experience in Singapore, I can't help but reflect on the invaluable lessons I've learned and the personal growth I've experienced. I began journaling regularly during my exchange, capturing the daily adventures, challenges, and moments of joy.

It became a therapeutic and reflective practice, allowing me to preserve memories and gain perspective on my experiences. I want to keep this habit moving forward. Additionally, I embraced the philosophy of saying "yes" to opportunities, even when they pushed me out of my comfort zone. This mindset led to numerous adventures and connections that enriched my experience greatly. Another example of pushing myself out of my comfort zone was going on my first solo trip. Solo-traveling turned out to be a revelation as it allowed me to explore at my own pace, connect with cool people, and gain a deeper understanding of each destination's culture and history.

As this was the first time I had lived by myself, this exchange experience was a catalyst for personal growth and maturity. It accelerated my journey into adulthood, fostering independence, adaptability, and a broader worldview. These lessons and memories will continue to shape my life long after my time in Singapore has concluded.

Tags:

International