By Jiaqian Ji Ye, National University of Singapore, Singapore If there’s one thing Singapore does better than anything else, it’s food. Forget the bland student meals—at NUS, your daily choices range from mouth-watering Hainanese chicken rice to spicy nasi lemak, and don’t get me started on the bubble tea addiction. Dining in Singapore becomes a cultural experience in its own right. The hawker centres, offering delectable local cuisine at affordable costs for students, swiftly became my second home. The renowned Maxwell Food Centre in Chinatown and the Adam Road Food Centre near the campus were my preferred locations. Each meal, whether char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) or kaya toast accompanied…

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.

By Jiaqian Ji Ye, National University of Singapore, Singapore When people think of Singapore, they often picture a futuristic skyline, clean streets, and efficient public transport. What many don’t realize is that beneath this polished exterior lies a thrilling nightlife scene that caters to every kind of adventurer. From rooftop bars with breathtaking city views to underground jazz clubs and bustling night markets, my semester abroad wouldn’t have been complete without exploring Singapore after dark. Of course, Clarke Quay is the famous go-to for nightlife, with its vibrant riverside bars and clubs. But I quickly realized that the best experiences were found in lesser-known spots. One of my favorites was…

By Jiaqian Ji Ye, National University of Singapore, Singapore One of the biggest fears I had before studying abroad was whether I’d be able to make meaningful connections. Would I just be a temporary visitor in other people’s lives? Turns out, the friendships I built at NUS were one of the most enriching parts of my experience—connections that spanned continents, cultures, and backgrounds.

By Jiaqian Ji Ye, National University of Singapore, Singapore Stepping off the plane in Singapore felt like entering a whole new world—lush greenery, stunning skyscrapers, and a humidity level that made me question my wardrobe choices. My first few weeks at the National University of Singapore (NUS) were a whirlwind of new experiences: adjusting to the fast-paced academic environment, exploring the hawker centres for the best laksa, and figuring out how to balance studies with the endless adventures the city had to offer. Singapore is a confluence of cultures, and this diversity is evident in all facets of life at NUS. The campus functions as a city within a city,…