Culture Shock and Lessons in Adaptability – What Living in Singapore Taught Me

By Jiaqian Ji Ye, National University of Singapore, Singapore

No matter how much you prepare for studying abroad, there are some things that will always take you by surprise. My year at NUS was filled with moments of cultural discovery—some exciting, some challenging, but all valuable in shaping who I am today.

The first shock? The fast-paced, efficiency-driven lifestyle. Coming from a more laid-back culture, I had to adjust quickly to Singapore’s ‘get-it-done’ mentality. Everything runs on time, whether it’s public transport, university deadlines, or even a casual dinner with friends. At first, I struggled to keep up, but over time, I found myself becoming more efficient, more organized, and more proactive—skills that I know will serve me well in the future.

Then there was the unspoken ‘chope’ system. The first time I walked into a hawker centre and saw a packet of tissues saving a seat, I thought someone had forgotten it. Turns out, it’s Singapore’s unique way of reserving tables! Learning little cultural nuances like this made me more observant and appreciative of different ways of doing things.

Adapting to a new academic system was another challenge. With frequent assessments, competitive grading, and a strong emphasis on group work, I had to shift my study habits significantly. But through trial and error, I learned to work smarter, communicate more effectively in teams, and embrace different perspectives.

Perhaps the biggest lesson I learned? To embrace the discomfort of the unfamiliar. Living abroad isn’t always easy—there are moments of loneliness, confusion, and homesickness. But every challenge taught me resilience, adaptability, and the ability to find joy in the little victories.

By the end of my time in Singapore, what once felt foreign had become home. And that’s the magic of studying abroad—it changes you in ways you never expected.