ELAINE

World Link Volunteer For: Singapore, France

International Experience: Exchange to Singapore, Studied in France

Languages Spoken: English, French

Program of Study: Chemical Engineering- Biochemical Option

I wanted to study abroad to experience another culture, as well get the opportunity to travel around to various countries with such a different culture from the one I am use to.

What surprised me was how easy I found it to adapt, and how diverse it was. In one place it felt like a completely westernized country, then walk 5 minutes down the road and suddenly you’re in the middle of Asia.

I found it really easy to adapt once abroad. I have travelled extensively before which probably helped me a lot. However I know many people who hadn’t travelled before but it only took a short time for them to realize being home sick or not liking Singapore because it was so different was a waste of their time. Soon everyone realized to maximize their experience, and then they were too busy to be home sick.  The only hard thing to adapt to was the crazy hot temperatures there!

It is very hard to choose one highlight, however I will try. Definitely an amazing thing would be getting to know so many people from all over the world, and still remaining friends with them. I have a place to stay no matter where I chose to travel next.

The second best thing would definitely be having the opportunity to travel all around south east asia, and experience the amazing culture that there is, and take in so many amazing sights!

If it were possible to bring one thing back from my exchange it would definitely be the ridiculously cheap and delicious asian cuisine.

I would tell students travelling to Singapore to take advantage and do as many things as possible, enjoy the weather, and definitely take the opportunity to leave Singapore and visit some of the countries that are near by. They are all so amazing in different ways.

    RIGNAM

World Link Volunteer For: Singapore

International Experience: Exchange

Languages Spoken: English, French, Singlish

Program of Study: Politics and International Studies

I went on exchange in order to broaden my horizons, travel while acquiring credits and experience a once in a lifetime opportunity.

What surprised me as the amount of Canadian exchange students in Singapore. I would say the majority were Canadian!

Did I face any challenges? Yes, trying to understand ‘Singlish’, the Singaporean variation of English. It was tough to initially understand.

One of my highlights was meeting students from around the world, and being able to travel to areas I never thought I’d be able to.

If it were possible to bring one thing back home with me it would be the food, but only if it was the same price. Being able to eat some of the most delicious food, at a fraction of the cost was a blessing.

I would tell other students thinking about travelling to Singapore to not be scared, embrace the unknown.