My Exchange at Nanyang Technological University
Discovering the 360 International Exchange Programme
I first heard about the 360 International Exchange Programme through a friend who was interested in taking part in an exchange. Intrigued, I decided to explore the opportunity further and ultimately chose to spend a semester at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore.
First Impressions of Singapore
Upon arriving in Singapore, I was immediately struck by the contrast between its landscape and that of Auckland. I was excited to explore a city characterised by its fast pace, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant urban life. This initial thrill set the tone for the rest of my exchange experience.
Accommodation
My accommodation at NTU was a single dorm room in a residential building on campus. The dorm was comfortable and provided a private space for studying and relaxing. Living on campus offered convenience, with easy access to university facilities and events, fostering a community atmosphere amongst both exchange and local students.
Orientation and Making Friends
The orientation programme at NTU was well-organised and informative. It served as an excellent platform for meeting other exchange students. It was during orientation that I met one of my closest friends from the exchange, which greatly enhanced my overall exchange experience.
Academic Experience
The courses at NTU were insightful and engaging. I appreciated the diversity of the curriculum and the quality of teaching. The professors were knowledgeable and supportive, creating a stimulating academic environment.
Life in Singapore
Singapore is a fast-paced cosmopolitan city. The city’s efficient public transport system made it easy to explore various attractions, despite the long commutes from campus. I was amazed by the array of delicious food options, ranging from hawker centres to restaurants. Singapore’s food culture is diverse, and the canteen food on campus was very affordable.
Cost of Living
In terms of living expenses, I found Singapore to be similar to Auckland. However, the on-campus food and accommodation were much more affordable. Dining off-campus, however, could be as expensive as in Auckland.
Extracurricular Activities
I joined the squash club and the wakeboarding club at NTU, both of which were fantastic experiences. These activities not only allowed me to pursue my interests but also facilitated interactions with local students, helping me to build a broader social network. The clubs were welcoming and provided a great way to stay active and engaged.
Campus Life
Life on campus at NTU was vibrant yet relaxed. The campus itself is somewhat isolated, which fostered a strong community feeling among students. Daily life involved socialising with friends, participating in various university events, and enjoying the campus facilities. The serene campus environment provided a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s city life.
Highlights of the Exchange
One of the highlights of my exchange was the friendships I formed with other exchange students. These relationships were invaluable, offering support and companionship throughout my time in Singapore. Additionally, exploring Singapore’s cultural landmarks, enjoying its culinary delights, and participating in club activities enriched my overall experience.
Challenges Faced
The primary challenge I faced during the exchange was the semi-long commutes from the campus to other parts of Singapore. NTU’s location, while serene, meant that traveling to the CBD or other attractions required significant time. However, the efficient public transport system helped mitigate this inconvenience to some extent.
Advice for Future Students
For students considering the 360 International Exchange Programme, I offer the following advice:
- Embrace the experience: Dive into the local culture, try new activities, and make the most of your time abroad.
- Build connections: Take advantage of orientation and university events to meet new people and form lasting friendships.
In conclusion, my exchange at NTU was a rewarding and enriching experience. The exchange provided me with academic growth, cultural exposure, and personal development. I highly recommend the 360 International Exchange Programme to any student looking to broaden their horizons and gain a global perspective.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
I enjoyed the team-based learning aspect in some of my classes. The elective courses I took were quite fun.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
I highly recommend taking part in a university club or activity while on exchange. I joined the NTU squash club nights and met some very cool locals!
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
1) Immerse yourself in the university clubs.
2) Go to the hall functions and activities.
3) Explore outside of the campus.
How much did you budget for your exchange? Was this enough? Were there any lessons learned that would help future students budget for their own exchange?
I was fortunate enough to be a recipient of the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia. This scholarship covered the entirety of my exchange.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
The most significant takeaway from my experience abroad was meeting and connecting with people from all around the world living completely different lives from me. The time abroad also gave me a sense of even more gratitude for Auckland and New Zealand.