Embarking on a study exchange program opens a world of opportunities to expand our knowledge, embrace different educational approaches, and immerse ourselves in diverse cultures. During my enriching study exchange at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore, I was privileged to experience a unique blend of academic diversity and linguistic exploration. In this blog post, I will share my journey, highlighting the academic aspects and the invaluable opportunity to learn new languages at NTU.
Academic Diversity:
One of the most exciting aspects of my study exchange at NTU was experiencing a different style of education. While studying at NTU, I discovered that the grading weightage heavily focused on the theoretical aspects of the courses, with minimal emphasis on project work. This contrasted with my home university, the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), where we place a strong emphasis on project-based learning. The exposure to a theory-centric approach at NTU broadened my understanding and allowed me to dive deeper into the subject matter.
NTU’s commitment to academic excellence was evident through the wide range of courses offered, each taught by esteemed professors who are experts in their respective fields. The opportunity to learn from these knowledgeable educators expanded my horizons and provided me with a robust foundation of theoretical knowledge.
Linguistic Exploration:
One of the major highlights of my study exchange at NTU was the chance to immerse myself in the study of new languages. Despite being a local exchange, I had the incredible opportunity to learn both French and German. The university provided an excellent environment for language learning, with professors who were native speakers and a motivated group of students eager to enhance their language skills.
The linguistic journey went beyond just acquiring language proficiency. Learning French and German allowed me to gain a distinct cultural perspective, as language and culture are intricately intertwined. Understanding the nuances of a language provided insights into the customs, traditions, and values of the respective countries. This linguistic exploration was particularly unique for me, as my home university’s curriculum here at SUTD did not include languages as part of the Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) major.
