Anytime I tell someone that I’m studying abroad in Singapore, I get the usual comments about how one cannot chew gum or spit without a hefty fine, or some even claim that there are jail sentences for such a seemingly minuscule act. When I think of Singapore, I too hold these stereotypes, and I’m excited to see which actually hold up to be true and which are just over-exaggerated rumors.
For a small island, Singapore has a diverse group of cultures, which was also a primary reason for choosing Singapore as my exchange institution. I’m excited to explore the various cultures that are part of Singapore, try out local foods in hawker center ranging from Indian to Malaysian cuisines, and become friends with the local students of Singapore.
Academically, I have not gotten all the modules (courses) that I would have liked to take, but there is a module add/drop period when school starts so I’m very much hoping that there will be some classes open during that period. I’m not sure how much different the academic environment is going to be in Singapore, but I think it will be just as academically stimulating as in Northwestern, and I’m hoping to learn a lot and experience a different academic setting.
The past month has been hectic, as I had to apply for housing, modules, visa, and foreign bank accounts. I’m constantly worried that I may have forgotten something important, but the advisers from both NUS and Northwestern has helped tremendously to relieve my worries and the only step left now is to arrive on their campus. Singapore maybe a small country, but it will be a big leap of difference from Northwestern, and I can’t wait for it.
