My Exchange at The University of Singapore
Through the experiences of people who had already taken part, I was introduced to the 360 International Exchange Programme. I made the decision to start this academic journey and investigate the opportunities the program offered outside of my own college after learning about its potential to be a life-changing experience.
My initial impressions and feelings upon arriving to the National University of Singapore (NUS) were very different from my comfortable surroundings in Auckland. Compared to Auckland, the size and distinctive culture of Singapore provided an entirely different experience. Humidity, high human density, and a lively city added layers to the mix of culture and academia.
When I stayed in Tiong Bahru, I had a cozy 50 m² apartment with a roommate that had a common kitchen and toilet. The living area was comfortable and kept up, however for potential exchange students, it was important to note that living expenses in Singapore were greater than those in Auckland.
Unfortunately, my arrival time prevented me from attending NUS orientation, but savvy new friends gave me a thorough tour, which helped me get around the large campus. Although NUS’s academic environment is comparable to that of the University of Auckland (UOA), it has brought in new viewpoints on course material that highlight the many cultural and regional influences.
The convenience of urban living was emphasized by the host city, Singapore, which offers easy access to many locations. Beyond the classroom, cuisine, sightseeing, and participation in a variety of extracurricular activities were all part of the cultural immersion. My exchange experience was enhanced by discovering new aspects of Singapore and traveling to Malaysia.
The difficulties of choosing a course, such as its restricted availability and some of its level of difficulty, put my flexibility to the test. For three courses, concession procedures were required, but with persistence, I was able to enroll in them all. The courses required concentrated attention due to their unique nature, which set them apart from those in Auckland.
The wonderful meal I had during my exchange was one of the highlights. The local cuisine was a culinary delight because it was affordable, costing about five dollars per meal in food courts and highlighted the mix of numerous cultures.
Upon reflection, I would advise upcoming exchange students to plan ahead meticulously. A more seamless transition to academic life can be achieved by taking into account factors like course availability, possible exam conflicts, and early course approval submission. A well-rounded and rewarding experience can be ensured by being adaptable and taking the initiative to interact with the complexities of the exchange process.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
Cultural Diversity in Courses: National University of Singapore (NUS), the host university, included a variety of cultural viewpoints in addition to covering the subject matter in their courses. This feature gave the academic material a deeper level of complexity and a more thorough grasp of international affairs.
Interactive Teaching Methods: At NUS, there was a noticeable emphasis on interactive and captivating teaching methods. Lecturers frequently promoted group projects, debates, and real-world applications of theoretical ideas. Because of this, the classroom was made more dynamic and students were able to actively participate in the discussion.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
Take a look at Gardens by the Bay:
A popular tourist destination in Singapore, Gardens by the Bay offers stunning greenery and modern Supertrees. Saunter among the gardens at your leisure, watch the nighttime light displays, and marvel at the inventive fusion of technology and nature.
Take Part in Festivals of Culture:
Singapore celebrates its diverse population all year long with a number of cultural events. Taking part in various celebrations, such as Chinese New Year, Deepavali, or Hari Raya, offers an up-close look at the diversity of the nation’s cultures.
Take a Singapore River Bumboat Ride:
Take a bumboat journey down the Singapore River to learn more about Singapore’s maritime past. This excursion teaches you about the city’s colonial past while offering a stunning view of the city’s skyline.
Take a Night Safari:
The Night Safari in Singapore is home to the first nighttime zoo in history. Seeing animals in their natural settings beneath the moon is a singular experience. Take into consideration going on an amazing nighttime journey with your companions.
Take Part in Sentosa Island Water Sports:
There are several different water sports available on Sentosa Island. Enjoy these exhilarating activities—kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing—while taking advantage of the warm weather.
Attend Cultural Events Organized by NUS:
Cultural events, workshops, and performances are often arranged by NUS. Participate in these events to become fully immersed in the university’s intellectual and cultural life. It’s a great way to expand your horizons and meet other students.
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
Embrace Cultural Diversity and Regional Food: NUS represents the diversity of cultures that make up Singapore, a melting pot of civilizations. Seize the chance to engage with students from many backgrounds, take part in cultural gatherings, and discover the diverse range of Singaporean customs. Don’t forget to sample the delicious local food served at hawker centers. Sample a range of foods, including Hainanese chicken rice and laksa, as these are essential to the Singaporean experience.
Take Part in Extracurricular Events and Activities: NUS provides a wide range of extracurricular events, like as sports, clubs, and cultural programs. Whether it’s playing sports, taking part in cross-cultural interactions, or volunteering for community service, get engaged with student organizations that share your interests. This improves your social life and gives you the chance to establish enduring relationships with both domestic and foreign students.
Investigate Beyond the Campus: While scholastic endeavors are important, spend some time learning about Singapore’s wider facets. Explore various neighborhoods like Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam, each with its own distinct charm. Celebrate regional holidays, see famous sites like Gardens by the Bay, and make use of Singapore’s advantageous location to explore neighboring nations. A well-rounded and rewarding exchange experience can be achieved by striking a balance between your academic obligations and curiosity.
Bonus Advice: Become acquainted with the local transportation system
Singapore’s public transport system is effective and well-connected. Spend some time learning how buses and MRTs (Mass Rapid Transit) operate. You’ll be able to travel throughout the city with ease and affordability once you know this. Obtaining an EZ-Link card can help you ride on public transit more easily.
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?
Around 20 thousand NZD. It was definitely enough as the unit I rented was 2k per month, normal student living on campus would be significantly cheaper, I also spent a lot of money travelling. One advice would be taking a look at some currency converting apps, as they have better currency and is easier to track when the currency is at a higher peak.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
Improved Cross-Cultural Communication Skills: During my time overseas, I learned how important it was to communicate successfully across cultures. Enhanced cross-cultural communication abilities were developed through navigating cultural nuances, negotiating language barriers, and comprehending diverse communication styles. These abilities are crucial for promoting collaboration and understanding in a variety of contexts, not just in today’s worldwide society.
My understanding and capacity to adapt to other cultures was enhanced by my immersion in a new cultural environment at NUS. Engaging with learners from varied origins, comprehending multiple cultural customs, and maneuvering through a novel sociopolitical framework enhanced my capacity to adjust and value distinct viewpoints. This increased cultural awareness has been very beneficial in both personal and professional contexts, as well as in the classroom.
My studies at NUS were viewed from a global perspective thanks to the academic setting there. The classes offered a comprehensive perspective on a range of subjects, impacted by the varied faculty and foreign student body. My comprehension has grown as a result of this experience, which has shown me how various geographical areas and cultural perspectives affect and are influenced by academic fields. It improved my ability to think critically and motivated me to consider problems from several perspectives.
Living abroad and being cut off from the comforts and safety nets of home helped to foster independence and self-sufficiency. I gained resilience from handling everyday responsibilities to figuring out the complexities of a new educational system, which has helped me overcome obstacles in my personal and academic life. My increased freedom has given me the courage and resourcefulness to face life head-on.
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