As my semester abroad in Singapore comes to an end, I find myself filled with mixed emotions. It’s hard to believe that just a few months ago, I was stepping into the unknown, adjusting to life in a new country and embracing the excitement of Southeast Asia.
Since my last blog post, I’ve been lucky enough to explore placed like Phuket, Bangkok and Bali, with each destination adding unique memories and experiences which have enriched my time abroad.
Academic Challenges and New Perspectives
The academic environment at NUS has pushed me in ways I hadn’t anticipated, offering both eye-opening experiences and rigorous challenges. The approach to academics here is decidedly formal and impersonal compared to my experience at GW. Professors are focused on delivering content and maintaining discipline but place little emphasis on building personal connections with students. Unlike GW, where I’ve felt that professors were invested in my academic journey and personal growth, at NUS, there’s a clear boundary that keeps interactions professional and impersonal. This shift has required me to be much more self-reliant in my studies, changing how I approach my academic life.
The grading system at NUS has also been a significant adjustment. With a heavier emphasis on end-of-term exams, it’s been difficult to gauge my performance throughout the semester, as grades and feedback are rarely provided on assignments or projects. This lack of transparency has left me feeling constantly uncertain about where I stand, and the exams themselves are notably challenging. The high level of rigor, combined with the pressure of an unfamiliar grading system, has required me to manage my time and stress levels in new ways. Rather than relying on feedback to improve, I’ve learned to trust in my efforts and stay disciplined even without regular affirmation of my progress.
Group dynamics have also presented a unique challenge. While group projects are common in both the U.S. and Singapore, I’ve found that local students at NUS often hesitate to collaborate with exchange students on major assignments. There’s a perception that exchange students may not be as committed or focused, given their temporary status at the university, which has made it challenging to integrate smoothly into teams.
Adapting to the rigorous academic expectations and distinct cultural norms at NUS has ultimately broadened my academic and interpersonal skills, enhancing my resilience and adaptability. This experience has strengthened my ambition to pursue a career in international business and finance, where understanding diverse academic and cultural approaches is invaluable.
Exploring New Cities and Cultures
The best part of studying in Singapore has undoubtedly been the chance to explore so many incredible destinations across Southeast Asia. Being based here made travel accessible and gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in new cultures, foods, and landscapes that I’d only dreamed of before.
My Thailand adventures began with Phuket, where I was exposed to the vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches and local culture. From relaxing on Karon Beach, to experiencing a thrilling snorkeling adventure in the Phi Phi Islands, Phuket was a paradise that introduced me to the laid-back yet lively spirit of Thailand.
In Bangkok, I was amazed the city’s energy and rich traditions. I explored bustling street markets, where the mix of smells, sounds, and colors made for an unforgettable experience. Visiting the iconic Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho was also surreal seeing the intricate details up close gave me a deep appreciation for Thai spirituality.
I was able to dive into the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. Whether it was a spicy Tom Yum soup or a refreshing bowl of Som Tum (papaya salad), each dish was a perfect blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. I tried local street foods such as crispy spring rolls, Pad Thai, and mango sticky rice all bursting with flavors.
Bali brought a whole new set of experiences. My time in Uluwatu was filled with both adventure and tranquility. I loved exploring the Uluwatu’s scenery, and the music scene at the beach clubs was incredible.
Yet, Bali also allowed me to slow down, soak in the scenery, and enjoy moments of peace by the ocean. While I didn’t dive into traditional Indonesian dishes, I thoroughly enjoyed the local cafes and restaurants, which served a variety of international dishes. From fresh salads and smoothie bowls to hearty pasta and delicious wraps, the food was vibrant and flavorful, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
Each place has added something unique to my study abroad experience. Traveling around the region has taught me so much, from navigating new languages and customs to understanding each culture’s unique values. These trips have shown me the incredible diversity of Southeast Asia, and I’ll forever cherish the memories of being able to see so much of the world during my semester in Singapore.
Looking ahead, I’m excited for my next few trips, which will take me to Hanoi, Vietnam, Seoul, Korea, and Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Japan. Each destination promises to offer new adventures and insights into diverse cultures. In Hanoi, I look forward to exploring the historical sites, including the Old Quarter and the Hoan Kiem Lake, and tasting Vietnam’s famed Pho and Bánh Mì. Seoul, with its modern charm and rich traditions, will be an exciting blend of bustling city life, delicious Korean BBQ, and visits to palaces and temples. As for Japan, I can’t wait to dive into the local culture, from the ancient shrines in Kyoto to the cutting-edge technology and neon lights of Tokyo, and of course, experiencing the culinary delights like sushi, ramen, and Takoyaki in Osaka.
Finding My Community
One of the most rewarding parts of this semester has been building friendships with people from all over the world. It’s amazing to reflect on how these friendships started—some with simple introductions, others through shared experiences like getting lost in a new city or trying street food for the first time.
There’s something special about bonding with someone over navigating a foreign place or discovering a new flavor together. Whether it’s sharing a meal at a hawker center in Singapore, or wandering through the night markets in Hong Kong, these experiences have brought us closer and created lasting memories.
Having a friend group here has made exploring Singapore and other destinations even more fun and fulfilling. Most of my friends come from Europe and America, and it's been so enriching to learn about their different cultures, travel experiences, and ways of thinking. It’s not just about seeing new places, but about seeing them through the eyes of others, with their unique perspectives and travel tips. It’s also about having someone to share the highs and lows of study abroad—the moments when everything clicks and the times when things don’t go quite as planned. The friendships I’ve made here have not only enriched my travel experiences but also helped me grow personally, learning from people with different cultures and backgrounds. I’ve learned that a sense of community is essential to making the most of this adventure, and I’m grateful for the friends I’ve made along the way.
Rediscovering Singapore
While the travel has been incredible, I’ve also spent a lot of time soaking up everything Singapore has to offer. This city never ceases to amaze me with its vibrant mix of cultures, traditions, and modern innovations.
One of my favorite ways to experience this is through the local hawker centers, where I’ve had the chance to savor some of Singapore’s iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and kaya toast. The energy of these bustling food courts, with vendors preparing food in front of you and the variety of flavors on offer, truly encapsulates the essence of Singapore’s food culture. Beyond the food, I’ve also spent time admiring the city’s breathtaking skyline, especially the futuristic Gardens by the Bay and the towering Marina Bay Sands, which have become symbols of Singapore’s forward-thinking spirit.
It’s fascinating how different, yet familiar Singapore feels compared to campus life at GW. The walkable streets and compact nature of the city provide a sense of accessibility that makes it easy to explore. The pace of life is fast, and the city is constantly buzzing with activity, from the morning rush on the MRT to the vibrant nightlife. I’ve grown fond of the efficiency of the MRT system—it’s become a part of my daily routine and a symbol of how organized and streamlined life in Singapore is. The city’s constant buzz, its mix of tradition and cutting-edge modernity, has shaped my experience here, and I know I’ll miss it when I leave.
Upcoming Adventures and Going Home
I’m looking forward to my upcoming trips to Vietnam and Seoul with friends before heading to Japan with my family, but it feels surreal that I only have about ten days left in Singapore. Leaving this chapter behind is bittersweet—I’ll miss my friends, the country, and the experiences we’ve shared. At the same time, I’m so excited to reunite with my family and friends back home, and to return to the GW community, where I can bring back everything I’ve learned here.
This semester has been a journey of growth, connection, and adventure. I’m grateful for every moment and can’t wait to carry these experiences into my next steps, both personally and professionally. Here’s to cherishing these last days and to the new adventures on the horizon!
Shriya Mullick
Fall 2024
GW Exchange - National University of Singapore Business School
GW School of Business
Accountancy Major