Embarking on a study abroad semester at the National University of Singapore (NUS) this Spring semester has been an absolutely transformative experience. This opportunity has enriched my academic and cultural understanding. It has been a pivotal moment in my life that will help direct me toward a life of personal growth and professional prowess. Specializing in the fields of Product & Project Management in technology, I took courses that would help me propel myself toward this and have surrounded myself with people who are excited about pursuing a career in these professions. 

One of the first things I noticed about NUS was that the faculty members cared deeply about the success of their students and made themselves greatly available to support students throughout the semester. Several of my professors have offered to meet over the weekend or in the evening, on campus or remotely, to answer questions regarding assignments, exam preparation, or general career advice. Furthermore, I’ve found that students here are very positive and unassuming towards others. Often my peers check in on me to make sure I am aware of events and opportunities happening on campus or how to get around the country. This generosity, openness and hospitality is something that amazes me about Singapore. In a place with such a unique blend of cultures and religions, there is an immense amount of empathy and solidarity for others. Furthermore, Singapore provides me with a vibrant backdrop for my studies and fosters an atmosphere of innovation and critical thinking in my every day. These are all qualities I try to instill in myself and will continue to practice back home in Canada.

Beyond the amazing locals, NUS also hosts thousands of exchange students from every corner of the world every semester. Through this international community, I have been able to meet and befriend students from Ireland, the Netherlands, the USA, Iceland, Finland, France, Sweden, Hong Kong and more. Sharing classes with such a global community has given me new insight into how education, job prospects and daily life vary on a global scale. This information has been instrumental in helping me decide where I would like to live and work in the future and what kind of lifestyle I would like to have. 

On a personal level, this exchange is my first time living alone in a student residence and has helped show me where my strengths and weaknesses lie. This exchange has made me a better communicator, less risk averse, and more confident; all traits that will help me make meaningful connections and build a stronger network in both my personal and professional lives. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to visit neighbouring countries like Malaysia with friends and see different ways of life across the region. I have been able to attend concerts like Coldplay and feel the roar of a shared musical experience; I have felt the harmony in what may seem a cacophony of sounds in the streets of Kuala Lumpur; and I have seen the beauty of life from a myriad of people who are completely different than me. 

The experiences I've gained from this semester abroad have not only broadened my academic horizons but have also instilled a profound appreciation for global interconnectedness and the nuances of cultural diversity. This has been an adventure of a lifetime.