Setting Goals for Singapore

January 6, 2016

I want to study abroad because I have always loved exploring different cultures and this curiosity about other cultures stems from my French and Mandarin language studies throughout my primary education. Although it may sound cliché, but one major reason why I chose to study abroad was the opportunity to grow.

During the 4 months I am in Singapore, I wish to indulge in the diverse blend of cultures and I want to push myself beyond my comfort zone by trying new things. While I am there, I also have several goals. First, I want to be fluent in Mandarin. I will work towards this goal by using Mandarin daily and by joining clubs where I have more opportunities to speak Mandarin. Two, I want a 3.6 GPA for this semester. Although this second goal will be difficult, I believe it is attainable as long as I study diligently and I reach out to the professor when I am struggling.

All in all, I am very excited about meeting new people, traveling to other Southeast Asian countries, and trying all kinds of foods! However, along with all the excitement I am feeling, I am also quite nervous about not making friends while abroad and not being able to adjust to hot weather. So far, it looks like both my fears are just fears.

Joy Li

My curiosity about different cultures stemmed from studying languages (French for 7 years and Mandarin for 12+ years). I chose to go to Singapore because one, I knew I always wanted to live in Asia for an extended period of time and two, Singapore is a melting pot of people, languages, and cultures. After living in Seattle for 6 months on co-op, I am so excited to continue my journey in Singapore. While I am there, I hope to challenge myself at SMU, to push myself beyond my comfort zone, and to have lots of fun.