4 minute read
Global Learning
Global Learning starts with you
Global Learning refines each learner’s global edge across the dimensions of Global Competence, Creative Intelligence, Social Intelligence, Emotional Intelligence and Leadership. Through experiential learning, learners co-create learning opportunities to learn and develop the competencies needed to confront ethical and/or meaningful challenges to do purposeful, responsible and high-quality work. These dynamic hands-on programmes disrupt traditional learning models to empower every learner to achieve day-to-day excellence in all aspects of life – educational, vocational and social.
Study Abroad (SA)
With 20 partner universities worldwide (including Berkeley, Cambridge, Korea University, LSE, Ritsumeikan APU and UCLA), students have the opportunity to explore diverse courses and engage in discourse with an international pool of academics.
Summer School Singapore (SSS@SIM)
The leaders of tomorrow must operate in a global context, within increasingly complex ecosystems and collaborate across boundaries of all kinds. The SSS@ SIM is an intensive three-week global experience programme in Singapore that helps students build global-ready mindsets, knowledge and skills, preparing them to thrive in a global community. Be amazed over and again by this journey of self-discovery.
Global Learning Society (GLS)
BE GLOBAL! GLS members will have the opportunity to embark on their own projects, take up structured volunteer opportunities such as conducting 21st century skill workshops and be attached to SSS@SIM as hosts for foreign students. As a group, members get together for ideation jams to brainstorm on ways to value-add to the SIM community while extending the mission of Global Learning.
Yeo Shun Yuan
BA in Sociology, SIM-UB Destination: The United Kingdom (London School of Economics and Political Science)
My experience
I had the opportunity to attend the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in the summer, and it was one of the best experiences in my life. Situated in central London, I got to see how vibrant and diverse the city is, from watching world-acclaimed West End musicals to experiencing the colourful nightlife in Piccadilly Circus. During weekends, escaping the city life was a refreshing experience. The Brighton Pride Parade was eye-opening, seeing Stonehenge and the City of Bath was exhilarating, and as a Harry Potter fan, going to the Warner Bros. Studio was a dream come true!
My takeaway
I took the Public Policy Analysis module and gained a lot of valuable insights on what goes on during policymaking and the many considerations of a government. Learning in a world-class institution together with classmates from all over the globe was incredible too. Not only did I get a glimpse of their culture, making international friends and bonding over food and activities was the highlight of my summer exchange. One of my Italian friends was even surprised that Singapore has restricted areas for smoking, and we cannot drink in public after 10:30 PM!
This global exposure has definitely broadened my horizons – the knowledge I acquired gave me a better understanding of my career goals and expanded my experiences beyond Singapore. Doing projects with friends from different nationalities gave me a taste of overcoming differences because of our varied social backgrounds. Outside of school, I learnt the art of work-life balance, and was impressed by how people can creatively and freely express themselves. Above all, I realised we have more similarities than differences, even if we are miles. All of us just want to create a happier future in the world we live in!
Natalie Anthea Ow Ying Ting
BA in Communication, SIM-UB Destination: South Korea (Korea University)
My experience
This experience provided me with opportunities to broaden my knowledge in areas such as Korean history and new media through specialised modules offered. I also forged lifelong friendships with fellow students from around the globe. We bonded over sitting on thrilling amusement rides at Lotte World, playing futuristic virtual reality games at the Monster VR park and watching an entrancing hologram musical at the SMTown Coex Artium. Fond memories of feasting on sumptuous ddeokbokki (Korean rice cakes) or even belting out notes at noraebang (karaoke) together with newfound friends will forever remain etched in my mind.
My takeaway
Studying in South Korea opened my eyes to not just the country’s deeply rooted culture, but also widened my horizons beyond Singapore’s borders. I learnt to acclimatise and adapt to the local way of life through honing my Korean language skills and picking up social etiquette such as bowing to greet elders. Navigating through unfamiliar grounds not only allowed me to explore new sights, but also instilled independence, resilience and self-confidence in me. Encounters with locals and fellow international students also gave me insights into diverse world perspectives and deepened my understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
Above all, Korea University provided me with experiences that allowed me to spread my wings and grow personally through developing valuable life skills. I have become more independent and adaptable to new and unexpected circumstances through living abroad. Interactions with individuals of diverse backgrounds built invaluable friendships and developed deeper crosscultural understanding. Furthermore, my communication skills and self-confidence were boosted by learning a new language. These made me realise that the world is truly our oyster, and that adventures out of our comfort zones are the best ways to learn about ourselves and the world around us.
