Lessons From My Year Abroad

Looking back on my year in Singapore, I honestly cannot believe how much I have grown and how many memories I have made. When I first boarded the plane, I knew it would be an exciting experience, but I do not think I realised just how amazing it would be.

One of the biggest things I have gained is confidence. Moving to the other side of the world, starting fresh at a new university, and meeting so many new people felt daunting at first, but it quickly became exciting. I learned to say yes to opportunities, whether that was travelling to a new country for the weekend, joining in with student events, or trying foods I had never even heard of before. That willingness to step out of my comfort zone is something I will carry with me.

I have also become so much more adaptable. Exchange teaches you how to deal with the unexpected, from missed flights or buses and confusing timetables to cultural differences and even just figuring out the public transport system on day one! Each challenge made me more resilient and reminded me that things do not always have to go perfectly for the experience to be worthwhile.

Another huge takeaway has been the friendships I have made. Spending a year abroad means you meet people from all over the world, and I loved sharing experiences with them, whether that was travelling through Asia together, late nights studying, or simply sitting in a hawker centre eating and chatting. Those friendships have given me a real sense of global community, and I know they will last long after exchange.

Academically, I enjoyed seeing a completely different way of studying. At SMU the teaching style was really interactive, and it gave me the chance to build skills like teamwork, communication and critical thinking in a new environment. It was challenging at times, but in a way that pushed me to grow.

Above all, this year has made me appreciate how big and diverse the world is. I have had the chance to travel to so many incredible places, experience different cultures, and see things I would only ever dreamed of before. Exchange is not always easy, but it is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done, and I would recommend it to anyone considering it.

As I head back to Manchester, I know I will miss Singapore; the food, the sunshine, the friends, and even the little things like the noise the traffic lights make. But more than anything, I feel grateful for the experiences I have had, and grateful for how much I have grown.